Queensland Australia Cruise from Cairns to Port Moresby — 13 Days

Cairns, Australia

Cairns puts two World Heritage landscapes within reach: the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics rainforest. Boats leave the marina for coral reefs and islands. Inland, the scenic railway and Skyrail connect Cairns with Kuranda, a mountain village above the rainforest. The Esplanade’s waterfront lagoon offers a refreshing pause in the tropical city. Allow time for Cairns itself: its markets, cafés and relaxed waterfront reward a slower pace between excursions.

Doini Island PNG (Scenic Stop)

Alotau

Alotau sits on Papua New Guinea’s southeastern coast, where rainforest hills frame the sheltered waters of Milne Bay. The town is the gateway to a province of islands, reefs and traditional coastal communities. History is close: in 1942, Allied forces defeated Japanese troops at the Battle of Milne Bay. It was the first major Japanese defeat on land in the Pacific War. Visit the local market, then look out across a bay made for slow exploration.

Tufi PNG (Ask Travel Agent)

Tami Islands PNG (Scenic Stop)

Garove Island PNG (Scenic Stop)

Kimbe (Ask Travel Agent)

Madang PNG

Madang sits on Papua New Guinea’s north coast, where a palm-lined peninsula reaches into a sheltered lagoon. Nearby volcanic islands and coral reefs invite snorkeling and diving; the lagoon also holds World War II wrecks. At the local market, baskets, produce and seafood offer a glimpse of daily life. Choose Madang for a quieter Papua New Guinea call, with reef adventures close to shore.

Crown Island PNG (Scenic Stop)

Port Moresby

Port Moresby is Papua New Guinea’s capital, set beside the Gulf of Papua and framed by dry hills. The National Museum and Art Gallery introduces the country’s cultural diversity. Parliament Haus draws on traditional Haus Tambaran design and is a striking landmark. At Port Moresby Nature Park, forest paths reveal native birds and tree kangaroos. Beyond the city, coastal scenery and village visits offer a different perspective on the capital.

• Lae-Morobe PNG (Ask Travel Agent)