Expedition Cruise into frontier New Guinea, Micronesia & Melanesia
Our long history of operating in New Guinea, Micronesia and Melanesia allows us to showcase these lands, which are some of the most isolated on the planet. Enjoy warm welcomes as you discover village life and cultural traditions unchanged for millennia. Kayak through rainforest-clad fjords. Spot a long-lost bird species. Explore the unique Bubbling Springs Reef at Dobu. Snorkel, swim and dive on vibrant reefs at the Fly Islands. On visits to remote islands, admire intricate craftwork passed down from generation to generation. For over 40 years Coral Expeditions has operated with a single purpose – to take small groups of like-minded explorers to remote places with expert guidance and warm Australian hospitality.
There is no better way to experience the spirit of New Guinea, Micronesia and Melanesia than by one of our expedition ships.
Travel with ease on our optional charter flights providing a direct connection between destinations
This voyage is an opportunity to immerse into the wild and rugged scenery of Papua New Guinea that is rarely seen and mostly inaccessible by land. This voyage uncovers little-visited islands, volcanic mountains and pristine rainforest wilderness areas forged by mighty rivers.
Charter flight between Cairns & Madang included.
Departs December 2025
On this 16-night journey through Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, we venture into remote destinations accessible only by sea, far away from the large cruise ship routes. Immerse yourself in local ‘kastom’ and captivating performances of the Rom Dance at Ambrym Island. Snorkel over the World War II wreck of a Japanese ‘Zero’ fighter plane. Discover the unique wildlife of Tetepare Island, and marvel at sea caves in the Louisiade Archipelago along a 400km stretch of the Coral Sea.
Departs Jan 2026
Discover the remote and lesser-visited outer islands of Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands, and Bougainville. Encounter striking landscapes, pristine islands, unique wildlife, and vibrant cultural traditions including women’s Water Dance at Marau Sound and famous Snake Dance of Rah Island. Explore historic World War II battle sites and join in conservation efforts at the Arnavon Islands with our expert guides before concluding the voyage in New Britain’s historic Rabaul.
Charter flight from Rabaul included.
Departs Jan 2026
This journey takes you through Micronesia’s hidden gems. From Micronesia’s southernmost point, Kapingamarangi Island to the remote beauty of Helen Reef, interact with locals while learning about their way of life. Immerse yourself in Yapese culture, discovering the secrets of stone currency and ancient construction. Explore the culture and history of Nan Madol and Truk Lagoon, revealing the mysteries of these enchanting islands and atolls. Dive into crystal-clear waters at most stops, from renowned lagoons to pristine biosphere reserves.
Charter flight between Rabaul & Sorong included.
Departs Feb 2026
The rich history and diverse marine life of Raja Ampat and Spice Islands are brought to life as Coral Geographer retraces the ancient routes of spice merchants trading Chinese silks for cloves, Indian cotton for nutmeg and Arabian coffee for pepper.
Charter flight between Darwin & Sorong included.
Departs Feb, Mar & Sep 2025,
Mar 2026
Papua New Guinea Voyage Logs
Cruise New Guinea & Micronesia Onboard Coral Adventurer
Coral Adventurer is perfectly designed to navigate the remote, tropical waters of New Guinea and Micronesia. Her shallow draught, dual Xplorer tenders and complement of zodiacs make her the ideal choice for an expedition to these frontier lands. With more than 1000 square metres of open deck space, large picture windows and balconies, you can take in the environment in comfort.
New Guinea & Micronesia for True Explorers
Enjoy ancient warrior traditions and cruise pristine landscapes in search of hidden lagoons and exotic birds. Discover the limestone karst islands of Raja Ampat and hike to the summit of Pindito Peak. Snorkel and dive the coral reefs, lava flows and WWII wrecks of the Coral Triangle and the marine playground of Raja Ampat. Join in traditional performances and experience ancient Austranesian and Micronesian traditions. Learn about Yap’s customs and culture and visit the isolated islet of Ulithi home to sea turtles, coconut crabs and sea birds. Meet the people of Sonsorol island who are linguistically and culturally different from their Caroline Islands neighbours. Discover the breathtaking landscape of Palau and swim with harmless golden jellyfish in Jellyfish Lake.
Ultimate Dive Sites – Palau
Follow The Voyage: Circumnavigation Of Papua New Guinea – January 2024
Best Day On Expedition | Misool, Raja Ampat
Posts from our New Guinea voyages
Where Will Your Curiosity Take You in 2025?
Set out on a journey through the Frontier Lands of Papua New Guinea. Departing from Cairns or Madang, this expedition takes you deep into landscapes rarely seen—volcanic peaks, vast rainforests, and mighty rivers that shape remote villages and rich traditions.
Sail past the Kadovar Islands, venture up the Sepik River to discover riverside life unchanged for centuries, and browse intricate masks and carvings at village markets. Snorkel or dive the vibrant Fly Islands reefs, and witness the surreal Bubbling Springs Reef at Dobu.
A journey here is more than travel—it’s an exploration of culture, nature, and the spirit of adventure.
Captured by Expedition Team member Luke
Mar 25
The Torres Strait is home to the Torres Strait Islanders, an Indigenous Australian people with a distinct culture, language, and identity separate from mainland Aboriginal groups. The Torres Strait Islands, located between Cape York Peninsula and Papua New Guinea, are home to communities with strong connections to the sea, rich storytelling traditions, and vibrant art, music, and dance. The culture blends influences from Melanesian, Australian Aboriginal, and European heritage.
Thursday Island (Waiben) is the administrative and cultural hub of the Torres Strait, with a population of around 2,500 people. Historically, it was a major pearling center, attracting workers from Japan, the Philippines, and Malaysia. Today, its residents include Torres Strait Islanders, Aboriginal Australians, and people of Asian and European descent.
Torres Strait Islanders are skilled seafarers, relying on fishing, trading, and traditional navigation. Their customs and traditions revolve around the sea, with ceremonies, songs, and dances reflecting their deep connection to their island environment.
Mar 11
Have you ever wondered how to reach the northernmost point of Australia? It’s a unique challenge that many attempt by 4WD, helicopter, or private charter.
Coral Expeditions offers a different way to experience this remote region through a small ship expedition, exploring the Torres Strait Islands and Cape York’s coastlines. Aboard the Coral Discoverer, with a maximum of 72 guests, you’ll visit the northern Great Barrier Reef, hike Cape York`s coastal trails, and discover the rarely seen Torres Strait Islands. Home to nearly 300 islands between Cape York and Papua New Guinea, the Torres Strait boasts a rich Indigenous culture, uninhabited sand cays, isolated islands, and pristine reefs. Our expert guides will share their deep knowledge of the environment and local culture, while local elders provide valuable insights into the customs and stories of this ancient land.
Learn more about the voyage here: https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/cape-york-arnhem-land/torres-strait-cape-york/
Mar 3
For the next four months, Coral Geographer will be sailing overseas!
Departing today from Darwin, she will journey through West Papua, the Spice Islands, and Micronesia, all the way to Yap.
Wishing all our guests and crew a fabulous time!
🩵🏝🐋🍹
Aug 20
Dancing in the most remote destinations of the world 🏝️
Onboard our Circumnavigation of New Guinea voyage we connected with the friendly locals and our fellow explorers at Banda Neira where we danced the day away creating timeless memories. Discover more about the Coral Expeditions experience by joining our `Welcome to Coral Expeditions` webinar tomorrow at 4:00pm (AEST QLD).
Register on our website. Link in bio.
#cruise #expeditioncruise #BandaNeira
Mar 4
The last days of our circumnavigation of New Guinea voyage are approaching, and we are reflecting on the moments we`ve captured: hiking to the top of Misool, enjoying sunset drinks on Wayag island, and connecting with the locals in Arguni Village.
Discover more on our website. Link in bio.
#discoverpapuanewguinea
#expeditioncruise #cruise #PapuaNewGuinea #discoverpapuanewguinea #CoralAdventurer
Feb 9
Enjoy A Slice Of Paradise With Us 🏝
As we circumnavigate New Guinea we stopped at Banda Neira to enjoy dancing and sunset drinks at Fort Belgica.
Discover more on our website. Link in bio.
#discoverpapuanewguinea
#expeditioncruise #cruise #PapuaNewGuinea #discoverpapuanewguinea #CoralAdventurer
Feb 6
From the Fly Islands, Madang, and Sepik, Coral Adventurer has been circumnavigating Papua New Guinea. With colorful villages and cultural performances at each remote island, the welcoming locals have enriched us with knowledge of ancient culture, island lifestyles, and handcrafts, creating our true expedition experience as we venture deep into lush forests and dive into vibrant coral reefs.
Explore Papua New Guinea: https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/papua-new-guinea/
#discoverpapuanewguinea
#expeditioncruise #cruise #PapuaNewGuinea #discoverpapuanewguinea
Jan 25
Circumnavigation Papua New Guinea: Day 4 🏝️
Aboard the Coral Adventurer, we have explored the turquoise hot springs waters at Dei Dei Island, walked through the lush green wilderness of Dobu Island and relaxed with sunset beach drinks at Killerton Island.
Explore our Papua New Guinea voyages on our website. Link in bio.
#discoverpapuanewguinea
#expeditioncruise #cruise #PapuaNewGuinea #discoverpapuanewguinea
Jan 16
Papua New Guinea Circumnavigation 🏝️
We are venturing into the remote and rugged region of Papua New Guinea aboard Coral Adventurer and spending the next 31 days discovering colourful cultural performances, exotic wildlife, bubbling spring reefs and connecting with friendly locals on this adventure of a lifetime.
Discover Papua New Guinea: https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/papua-new-guinea/
#discoverpapuanewguinea
#expeditioncruise #cruise #PapuaNewGuinea #discoverpapuanewguinea
Jan 15
Cruising into Tami Islands with Coral Adventurer 🏝️
Guests enjoyed a surprise sing-sing performance, connected with locals, explored cultural handcrafts at the markets and finished the day with some fun onboard antics and cuisine.
Explore our Papua New Guinea voyages on our website. Link in bio.
#discoverpapuanewguinea
#expeditioncruise #cruise #PapuaNewGuinea #discoverpapuanewguinea
Jan 8
With every new year comes new adventures that await!
In 2024 you can discover the vibrant cultures of the East Indies and Papua New Guinea, trace Australia`s rugged coastline following the footsteps of early explorers, and dive into the diverse marine ecosystems of the Spice Islands and Western Australia`s Ningaloo Reef.
View our 2024 voyages on our website. Link in bio.
#cruise #expeditioncruise
Dec 31
