Papua New Guinea’s cruise stops are quite the adventure!
For other Pacific Islands Cruise destinations check out our Pacific Islands Cruise Ports Guide page.
Alotau showcases some fascinating war memorials, while Rabaul wows visitors with its volcanic scenery and leftover WWII sites.
If you’re after genuine cultural experiences, head to Kiriwina Island where locals share their traditions.
The Conflict Islands are simply gorgeous – pristine beaches and a big focus on protecting marine life.
Bring some Kina cash to snag better deals from local vendors, and don’t overpack – just throw in light clothes for the hot, humid weather.
Each stop offers something different – from watching traditional dances to snorkeling among colorful reefs.
This guide gives you the scoop on making the most of your PNG trip.
Alotau Cruise Ship Port Guide
Welcome to Alotau – your jumping-off point to the stunning Milne Bay Province in Papua New Guinea! This little gem packs a punch with its mix of World War II sites and colorful local culture. You’ll be docking alongside other travelers on various ships – from the cozy Oceania Regatta to the massive Diamond Princess – mostly between November and June when the weather’s best.
Make sure to check out the Milne Bay War Memorial (this is where the Japanese got their first major setback in the Pacific!) and head to Bibiko Village to catch some authentic warrior performances that’ll blow you away. Love snorkeling? The Muscoota shipwreck is a must-see underwater paradise.
Good news – they’ll sort your visa right on the ship, but grab some Kina (local money) before shopping for handicrafts to score better deals than with other currencies.
Rabaul Cruise Ship Port Guide
Rabaul hits you with a totally different vibe after checking out Alotau’s war sites and cultural spots. Your cruise ship slides right into Simpson Harbour’s massive volcanic crater, and you can walk straight into town from the dock.
Man, it gets sweaty here – pack light clothes and reef-friendly sunscreen. You’ll stumble across some wild WWII leftovers like Yamamoto’s old bunker, get a glimpse of Tavurvur volcano doing its smoky thing, and catch locals showing off during the Mini Mask Festival.
Grab some kina (local cash) before you arrive, though Aussie dollars can bail you out if needed. Skip the coral junk and snag a traditional bilum bag instead. Oh, and don’t be that tourist – always ask before snapping photos of people.
See what’s on offer from the Port of Fanning Island, Kirbati for a different Pacific Islands Cruise destination.
Kiriwina Island (Trobriand Islands) Cruise Ship Port Guide
Stepping onto Kiriwina Island is like wandering into a living anthropology book that most travelers never get to see. Your ship will drop anchor offshore, and small boats will ferry you to either Kaibola’s northern beach or Losuia on the eastern coast.
No fancy organized tours here—you’re on your own to explore or you can find local guides for around 20 Kina if you want the inside scoop. Make sure to check out the incredibly detailed yam houses, watch locals play their version of cricket, and browse the colorful handicraft markets where you can snag some authentic souvenirs.
Smart packing tips: bring small bills (they prefer Kina), water, some snacks, and don’t forget reef shoes for the coral. Throw in some school supplies or fishing gear as donations—the locals will be super grateful. This is a matrilineal society where community ties run deep, so a little generosity goes a long way.
Conflict Islands Cruise Ship Port Guide
Paradise awaits at the Conflict Islands, a pristine archipelago of 21 uninhabited islands hugging a gorgeous 13-mile lagoon in Papua New Guinea’s Milne Bay Province. You’ll hop off your cruise onto tender boats that drop you at floating piers, your gateway to some of the most incredible coral reefs on the planet.
Jump in for some snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, grab a kayak to paddle around the lagoon, or join one of the conservation tours where you can check out endangered sea turtles. When you need a break, just plop down on the white coral beaches and soak it all in.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Currencies Are Accepted in Papua New Guinea’s Cruise Ports?
PNG Kina is pretty much your golden ticket here – you’ll need it for most places you shop. Some fancier spots in the ports might take your credit card if you’re lucky. Don’t count on using Aussie or US dollars much, though a few places might take them in a pinch.
Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for Visiting Papua New Guinea?
No, you don’t legally need travel insurance to visit Papua New Guinea. But honestly, you’d be crazy not to get it. Medical facilities there are pretty basic, and if something goes wrong, evacuation costs can be astronomical. Most smart travelers wouldn’t dream of going without decent coverage – you’ll feel a lot more relaxed knowing you’re protected like everyone else.
Are There Wi-Fi Services Available for Cruise Passengers?
Yep, you’ll find Wi-Fi on your cruise ship (they usually use satellite connections like Starlink), but don’t expect it to be free. When you dock in PNG ports, the internet situation gets pretty sketchy – your best bet is to hunt down cafĂ©s or terminal buildings that offer public Wi-Fi. It might be spotty, but it’ll get the job done if you’re desperate to check your emails.
What Vaccinations Are Recommended Before Visiting Papua New Guinea?
Heading to PNG? You’ll want to arm yourself with hepatitis A, typhoid, and COVID-19 vaccines, plus make sure your regular shots are up to date. If you’re coming from countries with yellow fever risk, that vaccine’s mandatory. And don’t skip the malaria protection – it’s crucial!
How Reliable Is Cellular Service Throughout Papua New Guinea Ports?
Port Moresby and Lae have pretty solid cell coverage that you can count on, but once you venture beyond these main spots, things get dicey. The smaller rural ports and out-of-the-way areas have patchy signals at best – expect your connection to drop when storms roll in or when you’re transitioning between land and sea. Just a heads-up if you’re planning to stay connected while island-hopping.
Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from French Polynesia Cruise Ports.
