As we follow in the footsteps of the great explorers though regions seldom visited, join us as we reconnoitre remote atolls, walk distant shores and snorkel coral reefs which have never been fully explored in Papua New Guinea. Small local communities are keen to share their rich culture, fascinating history and the rich biodiversity which supports their traditional way of life, be it plants, birdlife or beneath the sea. Papua New Guinea is a revelation of exquisite wild beauty and exotic cultural wealth. The incomparable biodiversity in both sea and land makes this one of the most mysterious places on earth, as rugged mountains give way to picture perfect white sand beaches. In this region which is home to more than 800 distinct languages and cultures we are sure to experience some remarkable interactions with the locals.
This is a land of new discoveries, each year new species are revealed in these remote and fragile environments. The incredible statistics speak for themselves: 69% of the 284 known mammal species in Papua New Guinea are endemic, as are half of the 578 species of breeding birds.
From the volcanic region of Rabaul we head southwards through the nutrient rich waters of the New Britain Trench, which offers wonderful wildlife viewing opportunities. Our expedition begins with a visit to Jacquinot Bay which features a spectacular waterfall and small villages hugging the coastline. Next we delve into the culturally rich Trobraind Islands, sometimes called the ‘Islands of Love’. The inhabitants have worked hard to keep the indigenous culture alive and today still live in the way they have for countless generations. We will then explore the coral fringed islands of the Louisiade Archipelago.
The D’Entrecasteaux Islands were named after the French Explorer Antoine d’Entrecasteaux who discovered them whilst looking for La Perouse. The sheer mist-covered peaks, wild untamed rivers, vast swaths of rainforest untouched by modern civilization, hot springs, bubbling mud pools and spouting geysers all attest to the geothermal activity.
As we head north-west along the main island of Papua New Guinea, we explore fiords, sandy beaches, jungles, remote islands and untamed coral reefs, before arriving in the port town of Madang.
This expedition offers a range of experiences to stimulate the senses. We explore remote regions of Papua New Guinea, snorkel some of the world’s best coral reefs systems, walk through untouched rainforest and gain cultural insights through interactions with the locals. An optional programme for those wishing to kayak in the excellent conditions of this unique part of the Pacific is also available.
- Explore Rabaul which is surrounded by six beautiful cone-shaped volcanoes
- See some amazing creatures and wildlife - the world’s largest butterfly - the Queen Alexandra Bird Wing, Flying Foxes (fruit bats), Sulphur-crested Cockatoos, Helmeted Friarbirds, Tagula Honeyeater, White-chinned Myzomelo, Tagula Butcherbird and White-throated White-eye
- Experience sing-sing Papua New Guinea style
- Explore the war wrecks and World War II battle grounds
- Meet the Trobriand islanders of Kitava and view energetic, time-honoured dances that celebrate fishing and the seasonal yam harvest
- Snorkel among kaleidoscopic coral reefs populated by Parrotfish, Neon Damsels and other brilliantly-hued species
There are no future departures for this trip at this stage.
Spirit of Enderby/Shokalskiy
The Spirit of Enderby is a fully ice-strengthened expedition vessel, built in 1984 for polar and oceanographic research and is perfect for Expedition Travel.
She carries just 50 passengers and was refurbished in November 2004 to provide comfortable accommodation in twin share cabins approximately half of which have private facilities. All cabins have outside windows or portholes and ample storage space.
On board there is a combined bar/library lounge area and a dedicated lecture room. The cuisine is excellent and is prepared by top NZ and Australian chefs.
The real focus and emphasis of every expedition is getting you ashore as often as possible for as long as possible with maximum safety and comfort. Our Expeditions are accompanied by some of the most experienced naturalists and guides, who have devoted a lifetime to field research in the areas that we visit. The ship is crewed by a very enthusiastic and most experienced Russian Captain and crew.
The name Spirit of Enderby honours the work and the vision of the Enderby Brothers of London. The Enderby Captains were at the forefront of Antarctic exploration for almost 40 years in the early 1800’s. It also celebrates Enderby Island, arguably the greatest Subantarctic Island in the world.
a) our fleet of RIB’s, (rigid inflatable boats) sometimes referred to as zodiacs. These extremely safe and stable craft will land you at some of the most amazing places.
Some departures are on the SHOKALSKIY - the sister ship to the SPIRIT OF ENDERBY
Vessel Type: Expedition
Length: 72 metres
Passenger Capacity: 50
Built / refurbished: 1984 / 2004
