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Sepik River Cruise 2024 & 2025

Sepik river.

Witness the infamous crocodile initiation ceremony and visit the stilt houses on Lake Kambaraumba. Wander idyllic tropical isles fringed with sandy white beaches and bounded by endless coral reef. Discover Papua New Guinea’s distinctive landscapes – both above and below the water.

Return charter flights ex Cairns ARE INCLUDED in the tariff. This itinerary is provided as example only – prevailing conditions, local arrangements and indeed, what we discover on the day, may cause variation. Helicopter flights can be purchased additional to the indicated tariff as a package or individually.

Welcome Aboard

Your “welcome aboard” is in the vibrant city of Cairns. One of our crew members will escort you aboard our very own charter aircraft! Now sit back and enjoy the comfortable flight to Kavieng. As soon as you step off the plane you will begin to reshape your impressions of the “land of the unexpected”.

Perhaps the clean and fresh sea breezes will take you by surprise, or will it be the huge smiles of locals so eager to welcome you to their island paradise. After clearing customs, we will transfer you to the on- board luxury of the TRUE NORTH and, the delights of our renowned galley. Enjoy a welcome aboard lunch before we visit a local island resort.

Kavieng and New Hanover Islands

The many islands around Kavieng and New Hanover are a cruise highlight. A morning sing sing will be a memorable event as every man, woman and child turns out in welcome. Off the beach we find ships, planes and even submarines wrecked in shallow water and beyond the reef it’s time to encounter a marauder of another kind! And, what a place for diving and snorkelling!

The Vitu Islands

The Vitu Islands are a volcanic group with an area of 96 km2 located in the Bismarck Archipelago. Formerly called the French Islands, the group is also sometimes known as the Witu Islands. The islands are volcanic ocean peaks and although they are reef-ringed, they are not atolls and therefore highly fertile. The group is the chief copra centre of Papua New Guinea, although the main crop harvested is now cocoa (due to the depressed prices available for copra). Garove [or Big Witu] and Unea [Bali] are the largest islands.

The islands are situated north west of the Talasea Peninsula on the north coast of New Britain with Unea lying some 40 nautical miles south east of the main group and the remaining islands – Mundua situated 7 miles NW of Garove, and Narage some fifteen miles NW of Mundua. The final extension of the chain being the Attilian Reef which is further NW of Narage and all but totally submerged making it dangerous to shipping.

Narage Island is a post-eruption volcanic remnant measuring just 210,000 m2 – prior to the eruption in 1892-3 it measured more than 600,000 m2! The tsunami from this explosion wiped-out all but two persons in Munda’s lowest-lying village (they were absent on Garove) and was causative to a major population reduction over a wide area on the north coast of New Britain. Narage is now shrouded in forest but not far from the shoreline there is a pool of boiling water, providing evidence of more recent volcanic history. In German colonial times, apart from the Kokopo area, the Vitu’s were the stamping ground and major enterprise of the American- Samoan, Queen Emma, whose manager, a Dane named Peter Hansen, became quite famous for his retinue of concubines, some 26 in number!

When the Germans were expulsed post World War I the island group was acquired by the trading group Burns Philp. Langu Plantation was ceded by Burns Philp to the Coote family after World War II as compensation following the execution of their family head (and Burns Philp store manager) by the Japanese after he refused to give the invaders keys to Burns Philp’s facilities in Rabaul. The Perhafen mission was established inside the caldera which forms the bulk of Garove, a wise choice considering the island’s exposure to sea state – the island comprising at places only the precipitous higher ground of the caldera rim. The helicopter will provide a bird’s eye view of the entire island group whilst the ship’s expedition boats will deliver guests ashore for historical and cultural tours.

And the surrounding reef will lure the fishers, snorkellers and divers.

Vitu’s remote coral reefs remain largely unexplored. Few divers have visited this area and many reefs remain un-dived. The visibility is usually superb and pelagic fishes are abundant. Grey reef sharks, silvertip sharks, dog-tooth tuna, rainbow runners and barracuda are seen on most dives. The fish assemblages on these reefs are distinctly oceanic in composition and a number of species that are rare closer inshore are very abundant here.

“Krakafat” is a dive site of particular note – a sea of schooling barracuda, dog tooth tuna, trevally and everything in between. Other sites worthy of exploration include “Dickies Nob”, “Barneys” and the “Arches” at nearby Ningau Island.

Manus Province

This morning we wake in Manus Province – very few travellers make it to this remote part of Papua New Guinea. The province consists of several island groups including the Horno Islands, the Admiralty Islands (including Manus Island), the Hermit Islands, Ninigo Islands and Wuvulu Island. The combined land area of the province is just 2,100 square kilometres however 220,000 square kilometres of sparkling sea surrounds!

Some 45,000 people live within the province boundaries.

The name Manus is a traditional name for a group of fishing people who inhabit the coastal areas of Manus Island. The name differentiates them from other groups with differing customs and languages.

These people were seafarers and traders.

The outstanding feature of their society was individualism and self-reliance. The most cohesive unit was the clan; a number of clans would make up a village, but they retained their separate identities with-in the village. Each clan would have a men’s house which was built by the most powerful person in the clan. Around this would be a number of family houses. Each house was under the protection of a recently deceased male relative whose skull was kept within the house. The spirit of the deceased was potent for as long as good fortune visited the person who gave the skull shelter. The skull was discarded when the spirit was no longer effective.

Apart from this ancestral protection there was no organized religion of worshipping deities. Truth and respect for property were highly valued attributes and it was through the spirits that this code was maintained.

The influence of Christian Missionaries and taking on of ‘western behaviour’ has changed some of these outlooks and customs. Today the dead are buried in communal or private cemeteries.

Change has also come in the form of new commercial pursuits – today the province largely relies on coconut cultivation and bech de mer (sea cucumber) fishing. The area is renowned for scuba diving and features colourful marine life, coral reefs, shipwrecks, and clear water.

During the morning we visit the island of Rambutyo – the second largest island (after Manus) in the Admiralty Islands. The island lies 40 kilometres to the southeast of Manus and here we hope to encounter traditional garamut (split drum) dancers.

There will also be opportunity for some short walks and, spectacular helicopter flights over the island group.

In the afternoon we will move to the northern end of Rambutyo – the fringing reefs here are amongst some of the most spectacular we see anywhere in PNG with very high coral cover and spectacular walls dropping into deep water. The mosaic of small islands in the area offers a wonderful backdrop and provides a wide range of different habitats to explore. Oceanic currents move gently through the passes allowing us a free ride as we observe the amazing biodiversity of these marine communities.

Sailfish are also caught in the surrounding waters.

Ponam Island

An entire day devoted to beautiful Ponam Island. Ponam played a major role in World War II. The island was occupied by Japanese forces in 1942 and retaken by Allied forces in 1944. American “Seabees” immediately constructed an airfield which was then handed over to the British Royal Navy.

The British named the airfield HMS Nabaron and used it as a forward operations base. After encountering the enemy, it was not uncommon for damaged aircraft to crash when attempting to land and today the wreckage of several planes can be found in the surrounding waters. Of particular interest is Ensign Jensen’s plane. The naval flyer was the only pilot to report a full-strength Japanese convoy that would have otherwise remained undetected. Unfortunately he was later killed when his plane crashed during a take-off from Ponam and the wreckage can be seen in a lagoon on the east side of the island. The terrestrial remnants of HMS Nabaron should attract the attention of our shore parties whilst the snorkellers will be keen to explore the plentiful bommies and coral outcrops found inside the Manus Barrier Reef. Coral cover is high and brightly coloured butterflyfish and parrotfish are common.

Game fishing for marlin, yellow fin tuna, trevally and mackerel is possible and bottom fishing can produce quality catches of snapper.

Ponam is adjacent to the longest coral reef in Manus Province providing plenty of opportunity for SCUBA diving.

The helicopter will again swing into action offering a unique prospective of the island’s many lagoons and, nearby Manus Island.

There may even be time for a romantic stroll along your very own beach complete with coconut palms and a shimmering South Pacific sunset.

Hermit Islands

Today we begin to visit a region that was highly rated by the underwater explorer Jean-Michel Cousteau.

The Hermit Islands form a 22 kilometre long barrier reef. They are renowned for their clam gardens and the snorkelling is truly spectacular. The gently sloping reef edge disappears into the blue depths with visibility usually exceeding 40m, allowing us excellent views of the marine life that inhabits the reef edge. Sharks, manta rays, turtles and large schools of barracuda and trevally all reside here along with the usual array of colourful reef fishes and invertebrates. For the divers – The Hermits also feature incredible reef formations where large schools of mobula rays, snapper, trevally and grey reef sharks are encountered! Fresh ocean currents also make for rip-roaring dives in channels chocked with giant sea fans and soft coral formations.

Marlin and sailfish are also known to occur and hopefully the hikers will catch a glimpse of deer introduced by German colonists.

In the afternoon the adventure boats will land at Luf Island – the only inhabited island in the Hermits. Join the crew as we meet the locals and experience local village life.

The Ninigo Islands

The Ninigo Islands are a large open-atoll structure surrounded by several smaller atoll formations. In total there are 7 atolls with around 50 small islets – plenty of opportunity for exploration.

The largest component of islands forms a 34 km long by 18 km wide atoll that is open on its western side. The major island within the group is Mal, located at the southern end of the outer reef. Other islands on the reef include: Hepi, Lau, Pelipa, Ahu, Sawapil, Chauch, Menan, Longan, Nahanu, Hepisasa, Chacheon, Maichuch, Potaminam, Amik, Puol, Pisa, Ngi, Onia, Wahangahun, Sabucho, Pihun, Keholl, Kamochin, Sand and Nunu. Within the lagoon are the islands of Pingilap, Talil, Hottom, Bahanat and Amot.

The diving here is some of the best encountered in PNG. We will endeavour to explore as many of these picture-perfect islands as we can and it’s likely that the day will be filled with magical snorkelling and diving experiences, leviathan struggles with rod and reel, exhilarating dips in the crystal clear lagoons and romantic strolls along the ever-present palm fringed beaches.

The Sepik – as far as adventure is concerned, it doesn’t get much better. Just the name conjures up excitement.

The Sepik River is the longest river in Papua New Guinea and, one of the great river systems of the world. It has a large catchment area and supports numerous landforms including swamplands, tropical rainforests and mountains. Biologically, the river system is possibly the largest uncontaminated freshwater wetland system in the Asia-Pacific region.

The river’s total length is 1,126 kilometres and it has a drainage basin of over 80,000 square kilometres! There is a 5-10 kilometer wide belt of active meanders along most of the river’s course and a floodplain up to 70 kilometers wide includes extensive backwater swamps. However, unlike many other large river systems, the Sepik has no delta – it flows straight into the sea. The entire Sepik basin remains a largely undisturbed environment – there are no major urban settlements or mining and forestry activities in the river catchment.

Local villagers have lived along the river for many millennia and the river has formed the basis for food, transport and culture. European contact with the river started in just 1885 when German colonists first explored the area. In 1886 and 1887, further expeditions by steam boat were conducted by the Germans and over 600 kilometers of riverine was explored. Between 1912 and 1913 the Germans sent further expeditions to explore the river and surrounding areas. They collected flora and fauna, studied local tribes and produced the first maps. The station town of Angoram was established as a base on the lower Sepik for explorations, but with the beginning of World War I, exploration ceased.

After the war the Australian government took trusteeship of the former German colony, creating the Territory of New Guinea. During this period the Australians established a station on the middle Sepik at Ambunti and conducted further exploration.

In 1935 Sir Walter McNicolls, the new administrator of the Territory of New Guinea travelled up length of the Sepik to “have a look at the river people and the kind of country along the banks”.

The Japanese held the area throughout most of the Second World War. By the end of the war the Japanese had been completely surrounded however, the battle to defeat the remaining forces was hard fought and drawn out due to the terrain.

The Australians eventually pushed the Japanese back to the village of Timbunke on the middle Sepik in July 1945. Eventually the Japanese were defeated and surrendered at Wewak in September 1945.

The Sepik is revered for its art. The tribes living along the river produce magnificent wood carvings and artful clay pottery. Many tribes use garamut drums in rituals; the drums are formed from long, hollowed out tree trunks carved into the shape of various totem animals. As part of an elaborate coming of age ceremony, young men are scarified with the image of a crocodile on the river bank.

Kambaraumba Village

The TRUE NORTH will arrive at the mouth of the Sepik at first light before proceeding on a 70 nautical mile Sepik River cruise. Then it’s away in the adventure boats and the helicopter for days filled with exploration and discovery.

Witness an elaborate coming of age ceremony where young men are scarified in the image of the crocodile. Other highlights include the township of Angoram – here the waterside market presents as a fantastic opportunity to purchase local carvings. At Kambaraumba village we will be greeted by a sing sing featuring giant crocodile puppets that gyrate through crowds of dancers and drummers – truly a feast for the senses! We also explore the maze of swamps and small waterways that lead to Lake Kambaraumba and its stilt village – a community of huts, churches, schools and animal enclosures built above the waters of the lake!

Bagabag Island

Bagabag Island is a white-sand island offering excellent fishing, snorkelling, and diving.

In the morning the adventure boats will survey the outer-reef which is teeming with fish, turtles and dolphins. The area is also renowned for its endless walls of sea fans, pristine corals and large pelagic species.

The inshore coral will entertain the snorkellers and there will also be relaxed opportunities for swimming and beachcombing on a Bagabag beach.

The helicopter will also be away again – to explore the sounding area and nearby KarKar Island.

Karkar is a larger oval-shaped volcanic island about 25 km in length and 19 km in width. In the centre of the island there is an active volcano with two nested calderas. The latest eruptions on this island occurred in the 1970s. The island has a relatively large population of approximately 50,000. The two main exports from the island are cacao and coconuts, which can grow in the same soil due to height differences. The large plantations are generally family owned.

After lunch we’ll go ashore to meet the Bagabag islanders – there are just 4 villages here and apparently the locals are keen to introduce visitors to their unique culture and way of life.

The island is rich in betel-nut, local pigs and other food. Life on the island can be quite interesting as there are very few people and they all know each other very well.

Then, you will not be able to resist the charms of Christmas Bay – here we can position the TRUE NORTH within 10 metres of the beach – all ashore for sunset drinks before a farewell dinner to remember!

Return to Cairns

This morning we are alongside in Madang. Transfer to your charter plane and the return flight to Cairns. We are already looking forward to welcoming you back on-board – the next time you Go Wild in Style!

Discover More Papua New Guinea Adventures

Adventures in paradise (10 nights), solomon sojourn (10 nights), the mystery of melanesia (10 nights), adventure starts here.

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Adding another dimension to the adventure, most cruise options on the TRUE NORTH feature an on-board helicopter! Carrying guests in air conditioned comfort, the ship’s helicopter provides unique opportunity to witness grandeur; unique opportunity to fish billabongs that have never been fished; unique opportunity to discover your very own wilderness!

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A commonly asked question is “When is the best time to see the Kimberley?” And the answer is “The Kimberley is always at its best!” However certain times of the year can make it easier to satisfy particular interest. For example, if you would like to see plenty of whale action then departures in August and September are definitely for you! From late July humpback and southern right whales reach the Kimberley after swimming-up the west coast to reach breeding grounds in the north and it’s very common for guests to get great views of whales breaching and basking on the surface.

The True North Experience

We curate activity-based itineraries that are designed to satisfy the world’s most discerning travellers. We specifically exclude sea-days and feature unparalleled access to stunning coastal environments and, unequalled opportunity to truly experience the destination.

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Sepik Spirit

Luxury in the deepest sepik....

The Sepik Spirit is a 9-room river cruise boat with a unique design inspired be the local architecture of the spirit house.  This “one of a kind” cruise ship is used to take guests on a voyage along the waterways of Papua New Guinea’s Sepik region. Thus, allowing for the unique opportunity to journey into remote villages that could not otherwise be reached on day trips.

Currently, the Sepik Spirit primarily journeys on the Karawari River, the storied tributary of the Sepik River, and on to the Krosmeri River which allows entry to the mysterious Blackwater Lakes.  The densely forested riverbanks of the Karawari River open up to the wide-open expanse of the Blackwater Lakes. Both regions are rich in bird life.

Guests will disembark the boat each day, where time will be spent visiting the spirit houses, family homes and important places in the villages and hearing about the traditional rituals, warfare, initiation ceremonies and ancestral beliefs.  The tribes of this region express their beliefs and creativity through the creation of unique and beautiful tribal art, such as masks, flutes, drums and spirit figures. You will have the opportunity to view and purchase arts from the small village markets. 

The Sepik Spirit is accessible by charter flights that operate in/out of the Karawari airstrip. The Sepik Spirit is accessible by Trans NiuginiTours' air service. Flights depart from Mount Hagen where Rondon Ridge is located and from Karawari Lodge and Ambua Lodge . Charter flights from other departure points can be arranged.

Contact us for bookings andmore information about the Sepik Spirit .

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Sepik River Voyage

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Sepik River Cruises Tours and Vacation Packages

The Sepik River Region is a vast grassland reserve. The Sepik River is one of the great rivers in the world and the longest in the country. It flows through swamplands, mountains and rainforests and stretches 1130 kilometres/700 miles from the mountains to the sea to be experienced on Papua New Guinea tours.

In this region are many villages that exist along the river. On Papua New Guinea tours, you will see beautiful longhouses called “Tambaran” (spirit houses) and learn about the diverse and exotic cultures that live here. The locals who live along the Sepik River rely highly on the river for travel (transportation), water and food.

There are no roads in this region so the Sepik River is the only means of transportation but a great way for travellers to experience the local life of the region on travel to Papua New Giunea. There are two sleepy beachside towns, Wewak and Vanimo which are also the capital cities of the province and which offer stretches of white sand beaches plus excellent diving and surfing. The local tribes produce magnificent woodcarvings and clay pottery.

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At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to Papua New Guinea tours. 

Learn about the  history  and culture of Papua New Guinea, the must-try food and drink , and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Papua New Guinea's nature and wildlife , weather  and  geography, along with  'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips , as well as our visa and health information will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Papua New Guinea for yourself. Start exploring...book one of our Papua New Guinea tours today!

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Papua New Guinea River Cruises

Choose where you sleep, crocodile clan male initiation ceremony & sepik river expedition.

During this 12-day trip, you will and may be able to: - Travel by canoe to the Upper Sepik and Middle Sepik to visit villages with ancient beliefs and rituals. We will meet the famed crocodile men, known for their intricate crocodile-skin scarification marks, and we will be allowed to observe an initiation ceremony.

- Visit many varied Spirit Houses and discover the Iatmul tribe & mythologies of wayward spirits and how an animalistic culture still hold sway over traditional village lifestyles.

- Journey along the Sepik River, we will have many bird-watching opportunities (with good chances to see several birds of paradise).

- Visit numerous villages for artefact buying opportunities and may be allowed to go out with the crocodile men to observe their traditional livelihood of hunting crocodiles at night. - Visit many (varied) villages along the Sepik River that offer opportunities to purchase crafts and artefacts, including spectacular masks, stone tools, shields figures and axes!

Day 1: Port Moresby - Wewak (D) Fly from Port Moresby (departing approx. at 10.00 am) to the town of Wewak where you will bemet at the airport and transferred to the “In-Wewak Boutique Hotel” for your overnight stay. A group dinner will be arranged where a detailed briefing meeting will be included.

Day 2: Wewak - Pagwi - Wagu Laggon (B, L, D) After breakfast, at 8:30 am, we drive to the small town of Pagwi on the Sepik River (about 5 hours driving time). We break the journey on route for a cold drink and sandwiches break. At Pagwi, we meet with our canoes and canoe men who will transport you up river to visit Wagu Lagoon in the Upper Sepik and check into the guest house there. Overnight and dinner in the guesthouse.

Days 3 and 4: Travel to Yambon/Yassan/Maio villages (B, L, D) Awake early and visit birds of paradise sites to (hopefully) see Raggiana birds of paradise performing their dawn chorus. Sightings cannot be guaranteed, but we have a good chance! After birding, we return to the guesthouse for breakfast. We then continue up river to visit Yambon village to visit the Haus Tambaran (Spirit House). We continue further up river to the villages of Yessan and Maio, which follow a Yam culture (as can be seen in their carved artefacts). We dine and sleep in village family houses in the Upper Sepik for the nights of days 3 and 4.

Day 5: Travel to Tongujam-Ambunti (B, L, D) Today we journey by canoe to Tongujam to visit the distinctive (and very different) Spirit House of that village. Afterwards, we begin the return journey down river stopping off at a few other villages and overnight and dine in a family house near Ambunti.

Day 6: Travel to Korogo/Yumuk villages (B, L, D) Today we canoe down river to Korogo Village fishing lake. There we start a 2-hour trek inland through the tropical rainforest into the delightful village of Yumuk. We visit some of the 6 Spirit Houses within Yumuk which are beautifully and distinctly decorated with painted beams and rafters from natural clay colours of ochre, grey, white and black sourced from the Sepik River. This style is unique to Yumuk. We dine and sleep in the Yumuk village guesthouse.

Day 7: Travel to Middle Sepik - Kanganamun village (B, L, D) After visiting any remaining Spirit Houses, which we did not see yesterday, we trek back to the canoes at the fishing lake and travel further down river to the Middle Sepik region, which is the Iatmul tribe’s area. The Iatmul are famed for their ‘Crocodile Clan Culture’ and occur across this part of the Sepik River. We visit Kanganamun village, which has the largest Spirit House on the entire river. We dine and sleep in Kanganamun village guest house. An opportunity to go with the villagers crocodile hunting (their traditional livelihood) may be possible in the evening.

Day 8: Travel to Palembei village (B, L, D) After breakfast, we visit Palembei village (also the Iatmul tribe). The village is home to two spectacular Spirit Houses filled with artefacts, some of which are for sale. Late in the afternoon, we travel to the initiation ceremony location, and make a base camp in the village guest house and/or family houses nearby. From early evening the already initiated men will start their traditional chanting, and marching round and round, each calling out to their own ancestral Crocodile Spirits for support and guidance for the following morning’s ritual. We have the option to stay with them all night listening to the mysterious, hypnotic chanting (though there will be accommodation should anyone wish to sleep).

Day 9: Travel to Kimindibit village & Chambri Lakes (B, L, D) At the first light of dawn, we arise and gather outside the Spirit House where the initiation ritual will commence. The, to be initiated, young men are taken in behind the leaf fence into the Spirit House. In an age-old tradition, the Iatmul tribe cuts the skin of their young men to initiate them. The skin cuts cause scars in patterns that resemble the scales of a crocodile. We may be allowed to witness this ancient custom from start right through to completion inside the Spirit House. The highest respect is required from all visitors during this very private and intimate ritual. After lunch, we travel by canoe to visit the village of Kimindibit where the village ladies will demonstrate daily village tasks of grass skirt making, weaving, sago making/cooking. We then travel onto Aibon (a clay pottery centre) and visit the Chambri Lakes. We dine and sleep in a local guest house.

Day 10: Travel to Kanganamun village (b, L, D) Today, we visit a series of villages of the Chambri Lakes, then travel back up river to Kanganamun village. We dine and sleep in Kanganamun village guest house. We may have a second opportunity to observe the villagers crocodile hunting (their traditional livelihood).

Day 11: Travel to Korogo village - Pagwi - Wewak (B, L, D) After breakfast the next morning, we motor upriver, stopping off at Korogo village before we return to Pagwi. We say goodbye to the boatmen, transfer into a private charter bus, and are driven back to the “In-Wewak Boutique Hotel” where we will have a group dinner and overnight. We will hopefully aim to arrive in Wewak during the early afternoon so if you wish to walk around the town market that would be possible.

Day 12: Wewak - Port Moresby (B) After breakfast, we transfer from the hotel to Wewak airport for a flight to Port Moresby. We should land at Port Moresby airport by 5 pm (possibly earlier) in time for 7:30 pm departing flights. Depending upon the schedule of flights, we may be able to arrive back at Port Moresby early enough to visit one or more art and artefact traders, and a shipping agent (to send back any items as required).

WE ARE OFFERING AN ALL-INCLUSIVE COST OF USD $4,800 per person for this expedition. This includes economy airfares from Port Moresby to Wewak return. Standard accommodation with meals for two nights in the “In Wewak Boutique Hotel”. All transport costs, all food and accommodation on the river, an English speaking local initiated guide, bedding and mosquito nets, private chartered bus with AC from Wewak to Pagwi return and airport transfers.

EXCLUDING: International flights and accommodation/transfers in Port Moresby prior the start of the trip.

NOTE: this trip includes an essential 25,000 Kina (approx US $7,580) donation from our group to the Iatmul community as a gesture of friendship to help the lives of old and young people. This cost is paid out of your fee and not additional. This is essential to enable our access to these fascinating villages and witness the Iatmul way of life and the initiation ceremony.

DEPOSIT POLICY: US $1,920 to reserve your place (non-refundable, unless we can find a replacement to step into your booking). The balance is due 8 weeks prior to departure.

START POINT: Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea.

END POINT: Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea.

NOTES: - All journeys to the Sepik River depend upon the level of the water during the time of the visit. The water level may impact the speed at which we can travel and which villages we can visit. While it is our intent to visit all of the villages listed above, participants on this expedition must understand that changes to the itinerary may arise. If any changes to the plan are necessary, all adjustments will be discussed openly with the group.

- On the Sepik River the accommodation is basic, and you will be staying in guesthouses or village family houses. There are only basic washing and toilet facilities available. In Wewak at the “In Wewak Boutique Hotel” will be based on twin/double share, single supplement will incur a surcharge.

- Group size: max. 10 pax, plus staff

- NEXT AVAILABLE DATE: 24th June - 05 July 2019  

You are in `Arambak' country here, one of the most remote and unspoilt areas of Papua New Guinea, with the Karawari River only 300 feet (100 meters) below as your only way in or out.

Exploring villages in small river boats along the jungle fringed waterways is as rewarding as it is exhilarating. See the people make use of the land - weaving baskets for catching fish in the river, or gathering,

preparing and cooking their staple food from the Sago Palm - taste it for yourself.

The main building of the lodge is built in the form of a `haus tambaran' or spirit house, which contains the dining area, bar, lounge, and an incredible collection of Sepik artifacts.

General Information

• Name : Karawari Lodge
• Destination : Papua New Guinea
• Location : Sepik Basin
• Seasons : Year round
• Capacity (max no. guests) : 24 approx

Accommodation

• Room Types : twin
• Showers & toilets : en suite
• Hot Water : yes
• Electricity : diesel generator provides power 220V
• Fire warning system : N/A
• Fire extinguishers : Yes
• Fire escapes : N/A
• Entertainment : Village tours to visit Sepik Villages

The RV Sepik Spirit

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Cruises from/to Sepik River, Papua New Guinea

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• With multiple cultures represented along the river, you'll be hard-pressed to determine which is the most fascinating. Two known for their Haus Tambarans (Spirit Houses) are the Perembei and Kanganaman; check out the carved ancestral figures that decorate the houses, and listen to the native guides as they tell you stories about their totems and ceremonies.  
• Crocodiles are a prominent animal in PNG culture, with many tribes feeling an affinity to these reptiles. You may see scarring that's supposed to resemble scales; this is seen as a rite of passage and initiation for boys to become men.  
• Birdwatchers will be delighted by the sheer numbers of species that can be spotted on the river cruise. The birds of paradise alone are numerous; keep an eye out for Goldie's bird of paradise, the blue bird of paradise, the black-billed sicklebill, and countless others.  
• For a real adventure, take a rafting trip through the Sepik, a more intimate trip that will get you into more remote areas. Traverse down the river through wild jungle corridors, observing plants, animals, and people, as you head back to sea.

Top 10 Cruises to Sepik River, Papua New Guinea

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Sepik River

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The Sepik River is located on the island of New Guinea and flows through the provinces Sandaun and East Sepik. Along the river there is a variety of mountains, swamplands and tropical rainforest.

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• Get inspired by the possibilities.
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• Uncover the hidden gems of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands
• Snorkel waters with some of the greatest marine diversity in the world
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• Sepik River

Full Itinerary

Day 1: madang, papua new guinea, day 2: embark in madang.

• 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 3: Sepik River

Day 4-5: manus province.

• 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners

Day 6: Mussa Island

Day 7: kavieng, new ireland, day 8: rabaul, new britain, day 9: nissan island, day 10: bougainville island, day 11: choiseul island, day 12: new georgia islands, day 13: santa isabel island, day 14: disembark in honiara, solomon islands.

• 1 Breakfast

Spirit of Enderby

Dates & prices, my preferred start date.

Initial deposit is 25%, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.

Final payment is due 130 days prior to departure by Bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge

See our general terms and conditions:

• Adventure Life Terms & Conditions

We are an agent for one or more providers on this trip with specific cancellation policies and terms:

• Heritage Expeditions: Terms & Conditions - Heritage Expeditions

For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.

• 13 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches, 13 Dinners
• 13 Nights Accommodations
• Accommodations as listed
• Ground transportation as listed
• Activities as listed
• Meals as listed
• Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
• House beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
• One night hotel accommodation in a twin share room (incl. dinner/breakfast)
• All expedition shore excursions
• Programme of lectures by noted naturalists
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• Flight costs (please request a quote)
• Additional excursions during free time
• Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
• Required Visas if applicable
• Laundry 
• Mandatory medical evacuation insurance
• Kayaking Option
• Optional Birding

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Kopar Village, Sepik River, Papua New Guinea

What to do in kopar village, sepik river, papua new guinea cruise port.

Wildlife Viewing

Kopar Village, Sepik River, Papua New Guinea is home to a variety of wildlife, and cruise passengers can take part in wildlife viewing activities. These can include bird watching, spotting crocodiles, and observing other animals in their natural habitat. Cruise passengers can also take part in guided tours of the area, which offer the chance to learn more about the local wildlife and their habitats. Wildlife viewing is a great way to experience the beauty of the area and its inhabitants.

River Cruising

River cruising is one of the most popular activities for cruise passengers visiting Kopar Village, Sepik River, Papua New Guinea. It offers a unique way to explore the area, with stunning views of the river and its surroundings. Cruise passengers can take part in a variety of activities, such as fishing, bird watching, and visiting local villages. River cruises can also be tailored to the individual's interests, with options for cultural tours, nature walks, and more.

Cultural Experiences

Kopar Village, Sepik River, Papua New Guinea is home to a rich culture and history, and cruise passengers can take part in a variety of cultural experiences. These can include visits to local villages, learning about traditional customs and beliefs, and participating in traditional ceremonies. Cruise passengers can also take part in cultural activities such as cooking, weaving, and carving. These experiences offer a unique insight into the culture and history of the area.

Shopping near Kopar Village, Sepik River, Papua New Guinea Cruise Port

Kopar Village Market

The Kopar Village Market is a great place to find souvenirs from the Sepik River region. The market is filled with vendors selling a variety of items, including traditional artifacts, jewelry, clothing, and food. Prices are very reasonable and the vendors are friendly and helpful. It's a great place to find unique and authentic souvenirs from the region.

Sepik River Arts

Sepik River Arts is a great place to find unique souvenirs from the Sepik River region. They specialize in traditional artifacts and crafts, such as hand-carved masks, sculptures, and jewelry. They also have a wide selection of locally-made clothing, including traditional grass skirts and headdresses. Prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable.

Sepik River Trading Post

The Sepik River Trading Post is a great place to find souvenirs from the Sepik River region. They specialize in traditional artifacts and crafts, such as hand-carved masks, sculptures, and jewelry. They also have a wide selection of locally-made clothing, including traditional grass skirts and headdresses. Prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable.

Beaches in Kopar Village, Sepik River, Papua New Guinea

Korogo Beach

Korogo Beach is a beautiful beach located on the Sepik River in Papua New Guinea. It's a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and is a great place to relax and take in the stunning views of the river. There are also plenty of opportunities for fishing and kayaking. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, monkeys, and other animals.

Korogo River Beach

Korogo River Beach is a stunning beach located on the Sepik River in Papua New Guinea. It's a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and is a great place to relax and take in the stunning views of the river. There are also plenty of opportunities for fishing and kayaking. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, monkeys, and other animals. The beach is also a great spot for camping and exploring the surrounding area.

Kopar Beach

Kopar Beach is a stunning stretch of white sand located on the Sepik River in Papua New Guinea. It's a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and is a great place to relax and take in the stunning views of the river. There are also plenty of opportunities for fishing and kayaking.

Attractions in Kopar Village, Sepik River, Papua New Guinea

Kopar village, sepik river, papua new guinea cruise port map.

Kopar Village, Sepik River, Papua New Guinea Cruise Port Terminals

Kopar Village Cruise Terminal

Kopar Village Cruise Terminal is located in the heart of Kopar Village, on the banks of the Sepik River. It is the main port of call for cruise ships travelling along the Sepik River, offering a range of services and amenities for passengers. The terminal is well-equipped with modern facilities, including a restaurant, bar, and gift shop, as well as a range of activities and excursions for passengers to enjoy.

Sepik River Cruise Terminal

Sepik River Cruise Terminal is located on the banks of the Sepik River, offering a range of services and amenities for passengers. The terminal is well-equipped with modern facilities, including a restaurant, bar, and gift shop, as well as a range of activities and excursions for passengers to enjoy. It is the main port of call for cruise ships travelling along the Sepik River, offering a convenient and comfortable stop for passengers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kopar Village, Sepik River, Papua New Guinea is not a good cruise port. The Sepik River is a remote and isolated area, and there are no cruise ships that visit the area. The closest cruise port is in Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea.

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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