Welcome to your New Britain circumnavigation—where active volcanoes meet ancient traditions, and every day reveals dramatic contrasts between pristine wilderness and living history.
Over the next 11 days, you’ll circumnavigate one of the Pacific’s most geologically active islands, exploring environments shaped by fire and water. This isn’t geological sightseeing—you’ll snorkel vibrant coral reefs within the Coral Triangle, walk through WWII tunnel systems carved by Japanese forces, and witness secretive Tolai masked ceremonies under volcanic peaks that still steam and rumble today.
Each morning brings new adventures as we navigate between pristine beaches and historically significant battle sites. You’ll explore the collapsed rim of Garove Island’s spectacular volcanic caldera, swim among the world’s most biodiverse coral reefs in Kimbe Bay and participate in traditional village ceremonies where Methodist missionaries established their first Pacific mission in 1875.
From tracking through rainforest to hidden waterfalls in remote Jacquinot Bay to exploring Rabaul’s ash-covered streets where volcanic eruptions reshaped entire communities, every experience connects you with both natural forces and human resilience. Our small expedition community of just 30 guests means intimate encounters with environments and communities that remain largely unchanged, whether you’re snorkeling pristine reefs or sharing stories with villagers whose lives revolve around volcanic overlords.
This is expedition travel where geology meets culture: engaging, educational, and utterly fascinating. Your Ring of Fire adventure begins the moment we cast off from Madang.
Day-by-Day Adventures
Madang
- Papua New Guinea
Board Paspaley Pearl in the “Pearl of the South Pacific,” where tree-lined streets and volcanic islands create one of Papua New Guinea’s most attractive settings. Meet fellow adventurers while our expedition team prepares you for dramatic contrasts between active volcanoes and ancient traditions ahead.
DAY 1
Nip Island, Cape Gloucester
- Historic battlefields and beach exploration
Explore uninhabited islands offshore from this historic WWII battlefield, where American forces landed in 1943 during Operation Cartwheel. Swim and snorkel pristine beaches and coral reefs in warm Bismarck Sea waters while learning how this remote wilderness became a crucial Pacific War strategic position.
DAY 2
Witu Islands
- Visit Large Volcanoes and Tropical Forests
Navigate inside Garove Island’s spectacular volcanic caldera through the collapsed southern rim creating a dramatic entrance. Join traditional Melanesian communities in this 8-10 kilometre natural amphitheater, exploring lush tropical forests and vibrant marine environments within this remarkable volcanic sanctuary largely untouched by outside influence.
DAY 3
Kimbe Bay
- Biodiversity at it's finest
Snorkel among Earth’s most biodiverse marine environment, where over 860 fish species and 400 coral varieties create spectacular underwater gardens. Explore black volcanic beaches contrasting with lush forests, potentially visiting thermal springs while marvelling at volcanic landscapes supporting this UNESCO-recognised biodiversity hotspot.
DAY 4
Ataliklikun Bay
- Traditional expedition performances and experiences
Meet the distinctive Tolai people known for matrilineal clan systems and traditional “tabu” shell money. Witness elaborate cultural performances including secretive “dukduk” masked dances performed during full moon periods, handling traditional currency while learning how coastal communities balance ancient customs with modern influences.
DAY 5
Rabaul
- Distinct harbours and anicent volcanoes
Tour this dramatic harbour town within an ancient volcanic caldera surrounded by six volcanoes. Explore 1994 volcanic devastation sites and extensive WWII tunnel systems carved by Japanese forces, watch active Mt. Tavurvur still steaming while learning how resilient communities live with constant volcanic activity.
DAY 6
Duke of York Islands
- religious lifestyles and traditional villages
Discover where Methodist missionaries established their first Pacific mission in 1875, spreading Christianity throughout the region. Experience traditional village life maintaining Melanesian customs, walk white sandy beaches, and enjoy exceptional snorkelling among vibrant coral reefs in this historically significant archipelago.
DAY 7
Jacquinot Bay
- Remote wilderness meets discovery
Venture into New Britain’s most remote wilderness where pristine beaches meet rainforest-covered mountains. Hike to hidden waterfalls cascading through dense tropical vegetation, learning how Australian forces used this natural harbour during 1944 Pacific War campaigns in areas seldom visited byoutsiders.
DAY 8
At Sea
- Remarkable landscapes and enrichment onboard
Reflect on remarkable volcanic landscapes and cultural experiences during our Bismarck Sea crossing. Join enrichment sessions about regional geology and biodiversity while spotting marine life from the deck, fostering deeper connections within your expedition community as you process extraordinary encounters with natural forces.
DAY 9
Tami Islands
- Artistic traditions that have inspired generations
Experience the Pacific’s most influential artistic traditions on four coral atolls encircling a crystal-clear lagoon. Witness famous “Tami style” wooden carvings and ceremonial masks, try traditional techniques, and participate in cultural performances celebrating artistic heritage maintained across countless generations.
DAY 10
Madang
- Papua New Guinea
Return to where your circumnavigation began, carrying shared memories of volcanic landscapes, cultural encounters, and pristine environments. From active volcanic sites to traditional ceremonies, pristine coral reefs to WWII tunnels, your journey revealed remarkable stories of geological forces and human cultural resilience.
DAY 11
Departure dates
Ocean Double/Single Stateroom
$17,495
Ocean Twin Stateroom
$18,495
Ocean Stateroom
$19,995
Horizon Suite
$23,995
Pearl Suite
$28,995
Prices are in AUD$ per person based on twin share. Single supplement pricing is available on application. *Sole occupancy of stateroom #107 attracts no single surcharge.
Ocean Double/Single Stateroom
$17,495
Ocean Twin Stateroom
$18,495
Ocean Stateroom
$19,995
Horizon Suite
$23,995
Pearl Suite
$28,995
Prices are in AUD$ per person based on twin share. Single supplement pricing is available on application. *Sole occupancy of stateroom #107 attracts no single surcharge.
Ocean Double/Single Stateroom
$18,495
Ocean Twin Stateroom
$19,995
Ocean Stateroom
$20,995
Horizon Suite
$25,995
Pearl Suite
$30,995
Prices are in AUD$ per person based on twin share. Single supplement pricing is available on application. *Sole occupancy of stateroom #107 attracts no single surcharge.
