Come aboard Le Jacques Cartier for an unforgettable voyage.
This 17-day PONANT expedition cruise aboard Le Jacques Cartier will take you to explore the wonders and ancestral tribes of Papua New Guinea.
You will board your ship in Cairns and Le Jacques Cartier will sail for Papua New Guinea, a fascinating land that is home to no fewer than 700 ethnic groups within a highly diverse yet mainly unexplored ecosystem. Sail to Alotau, in Milne Bay province, and discover a rich history shaped by pearl farmers, miners and missionaries.
Your call at Tufi will be one of the highlights of your voyage. Dubbed the Scandinavia of the Tropics, you will undoubtedly fall under the charm of this picturesque region, with its deep ‘fjords’ known locally as ‘rias’, which were formed through volcanic activity. In this unique setting, local Papuan tribes will share their customs, beliefs and artwork with you.
You will then head north along the coast to Madang, nicknamed ‘the most beautiful city in the South Pacific’. Within this stunning province exists great geographical diversity and 170 different languages are spoken there.
In the village of Kopar, situated at the mouth of the Sepik River, you will be welcomed with cultural performances and witness life in a traditional village.
As you voyage across Western New Guinea you will experience Cenderawasih Bay, with an unforgettable opportunity to swim with whale sharks and in the spectacular Kitikiti Waterfall, surrounded by lush nature.
You will then sail to the heart of Triton Bay. Located within a protected marine environment in the middle of the Coral Triangle, you will enjoy an unforgettable zodiac cruise through the spectacular rainforest-capped karst islands.
Before ending your cruise in Darwin, you will set the course for the Kei Islands, located in the Maluku Islands. These hidden gems surrounded by unbelievably blue water boast some of the most beautiful white-sand beaches in Indonesia.
The wildlife encounters described above illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.
Your voyage
All-inclusive

Destination
Pacific Islands
Cairns to Darwin
Duration
17 days, 16 nights on board
Expeditions
Offers
PONANT Bonus 15%

Diving
Ref: EX061125





Journey
Your daily itinerary
- Explore the south-west Pacific in search of the mysteries of Papua New Guinea, known as “the land of a thousand cultures”, and Indonesia.
- Discover the remote Tami and Kai archipelagos and the spectacular karst islands of the Coral Triangle.
- Guided activities: outings and shore visits in a rubber dinghy with a team of naturalist guides; scuba diving (Level 2 or equivalent) with an experienced instructor.

Customize your journey:

Date
3 Nov 25

Date
5 Nov 25

Date
22 Nov 25
Staterooms and suites
Elegance and refinement

Deluxe Stateroom
Guests
2
Size
204 ft²

Prestige Stateroom
Guests
2
Size
204 ft²

Deluxe Suite
Guests
3
Size
290 ft²

Prestige Suite
Guests
4
Size
409 ft²

Privilege Suite
Guests
3
Size
344 ft²

Grand Deluxe Suite
Guests
4
Size
484 ft²

Owner's Suite
Guests
4
Size
484 ft²
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Details
More information
What's Included
Important travel details
In your luggage
New Guinea Odyssey
Itinerary
Embarkation 06/11/25 from 16:00 to 17:00 Departure 06/11/25 at 18:00
6 Nov 25 - Cairns

Arrival 07/11/25 Departure 07/11/25
7 Nov 25 - At sea

Arrival 08/11/25 Departure 08/11/25
8 Nov 25 - Alotau

Arrival 09/11/25 Departure 09/11/25
9 Nov 25 - Tufi

Arrival 10/11/25 Departure 10/11/25
10 Nov 25 - Tami Islands

Arrival 11/11/25 Departure 11/11/25
11 Nov 25 - Madang

Arrival 12/11/25 Departure 12/11/25
12 Nov 25 - Kopar

Arrival 13/11/25 Departure 13/11/25
13 Nov 25 - Jayapura, Papua

Arrival 14/11/25 Departure 14/11/25
14 Nov 25 - At sea

Arrival 15/11/25 Departure 16/11/25
15 Nov 25 > 16 Nov 25 - Cenderawasih Bay

Arrival 17/11/25 Departure 17/11/25
17 Nov 25 - At sea

Arrival 18/11/25 Departure 18/11/25
18 Nov 25 - Kitikiti Waterfall, Mommon

Arrival 19/11/25 Departure 19/11/25
19 Nov 25 - Triton Bay, West Papua

Arrival 20/11/25 Departure 20/11/25
20 Nov 25 - Kei Islands, Maluku Islands

Arrival 21/11/25 Departure 21/11/25
21 Nov 25 - At sea

Arrival 22/11/25 early morning Disembarkation 22/11/25 at 7:00
22 Nov 25 - Darwin

New Guinea Odyssey
Customize your journey
The great barrier reef and the cairns rainforest (3 nights)

Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Enjoy a 3-day tour in Cairns and marvel at the natural beauty of its surroundings. Explore the Great Barrier Reef, the largest living ecosystem on earth, and dive into one of the world’s oldest rainforests for an unforgettable indigenous experience.
Day 1 - Cairns
Meet at the airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the hotel Shangri-La the Marina 5*.
Dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Daintree National Park
Breakfast at the hotel.
After a 90-minute drive, you will arrive in the Daintree National Park, located in the tropical wilderness of North Queensland. The Daintree Rainforest boasts an incredibly biodiverse landscape with a large concentration of animal and plant species that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. It is also one of the oldest rainforests on the planet.
You will discover Mossman Gorge, the traditional home of the Kuku Yalanji aboriginal people.
You will join an indigenous guide for a Ngaduku dreamtime walk into the rainforest, learning about age-old traditions as well as flora and fauna along the way. Participate in a smoking ceremony, said to ward off bad spirits, and learn about the uses of different plants during the trek.
You will then enjoy some free time at Mossman Gorge and a lunch in a local café.
After lunch, you will enjoy a guided tour of Wildlife Habitat, an advanced eco-certified wildlife sanctuary where you will have the opportunity to interact with native Australian animals in their recreated natural environments. You will explore unique habitats, hand-feed iconic animals such as kangoroos or koalas, and learn about conservation efforts in this award-winning nature park.
You will then go back to your hotel to enjoy some free time.
Dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3 - The Great Barrier Reef
After breakfast, you will enjoy a day discovering the Great Barrier Reef.
The Great Barrier Reef is a site of remarkable variety and beauty and contains the world's largest collection of coral reefs; it has 400 types of coral, 1,500 species of fish and 4,000 types of molluscs, which make it one of the most complex natural ecosystems in the world. It is unique, as it extends over 14 degrees of latitude, from shallow estuarine areas to deep oceanic waters.
After about an hour of transfer, you will discover the newest and most technologically advanced pontoon on the Great Barrier Reef: you will explore the magnificent coral reefs as you enjoy a glass bottom boat trip and a snorkeling guided tour.
Optional Activity: If you want to observe the seabed closely, you can book a 30 to 45 minutes guided scuba diving as an option at additional cost from your travel adviser. Let yourself be amazed by the colors and the impressive marine wildlife ! Any request made on site will depend on availability.
Lunch will be served on the boat.
On your return to the hotel, you will have some free time to enjoy the facilities.
Dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel
Day 4 - Cairns
Breakfast at the hotel and day at leisure.
Late check-out included.
Lunch at leisure.
You will be transferred to the pier to embark abord your ship.
Your hotel:
The five-stars Shangri-La The Marina hotel is located on the waterfront at Marlin Marina, connected to the Pier shopping complex and adjacent to the Trinity Bay Esplanade. You will also find close by, Cairns Convention Centre and Cairns Esplanade. The hotel features a restaurant and two bars, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, a sauna and a solarium. It offers a free Wi-Fi access.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
· 3-night accommodation in Deluxe Seaview room at the Shangri-La The Marina Hotel 5*, local standards (or similar), breakfast included.
· Late check-out on day 4.
· Meals as mentioned in the programme.
· Beverage package during meals (mineral water + 1 soft drink and 1 coffee or tea).
· Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
· The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
· Personal expenses.
· The scuba diving optional activity.
· Tips for the driver and local guide.
· Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
· It is imperative that the details of your arrival flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
· The official check-in time at the hotel Shangri-La The Marina is at 2pm.
· All diving is subject to successful completion of an on-board medical questionnaire. Certain medical conditions (i.e: asthma) and some medications may exclude individuals from diving. The minimum legal age for diving is 12 years. All divers under 18 years of age must have parent/guardian consent. All equipment is provided by the cruise operator, we recommend you to bring sunscreen, a hat, a swim wear, a towel and sunglasses.
· This programme is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Contact of your hotel:
Shangri-La The Marina
Pierpoint Road Cairns
Queensland 4870, Australia
Telephone: +61 7 4031 1411
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
£1,340/person*
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Cairns, at the edge of australia' s tropical rainforest (1 night)

Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Take advantage of a full day tour to discover the natural beauties of Cairns and experience a unique cable car ride over the tropical rainforest canopy. This programme will be a pleasant prelude to your cruise.
Day 1 - Cairns
Meet at the airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the hotel Shangri-La the Marina 5*.
Dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Cairns
Depart for an Australian experience into the rainforest. After a 30-minute drive, you will arrive at the Skyrail Rainforest Cable Car Station. Upon arrival, you will board one of the gondolas for an amazing experience over Australia's World Heritage listed tropical rainforest canopy, and into the rainforest itself. Spanning approximately four-and-a-half miles over pristine rainforest, Skyrail allows you to explore the wonders of this ancient tropical rainforest and learn about one of the most botanically fascinating and diverse areas on earth, and includes time at two mid-stations. The easy access walkways at Barron Falls Station take you on three separate lookouts where you will be treated to breath-taking views of Barron Gorge and Barron Falls. This station is where you will find the state-of-the-art Rainforest Interpretation Centre.
At the completion of your Skyrail journey, you will proceed to the centre of Kuranda, a delightful village nestled in the heart of the rainforest. Established as a railway station in the mid-1800s, when logging and mining were large industries on the Atherton Tablelands, Kuranda became known as a place to stock up on goods and also where one could enjoy some culture and sophistication at one of the local hotels. Today, this colourful township is a haven for markets, cafés, and restaurants. After a brief overview of the town, you will have some free time to further explore on your own. No doubt you will want to take the opportunity to browse the shops for local artwork, crafts, opals or aboriginal souvenirs while you are here.
Following your visit to Kuranda, you will board your coach and will return to Cairns for lunch.
Afterwards, you will be transferred to the pier to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
The five-star Shangri-La The Marina Hotel is located on the waterfront at Marlin Marina, connected to the Pier shopping complex and adjacent to the Trinity Bay Esplanade. You will also find close by, Cairns Convention Centre and Cairns Esplanade. The hotel features a restaurant and two bars, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, a sauna and a solarium. It offers a free Wi-Fi access.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
· 1-night accommodation in Deluxe Seaview room at the five-star Shangri-La The Marina Hotel 5*, local standards (or similar), breakfast included.
· Meals as mentioned in the programme.
· Beverages package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine and 1 coffee or tea).
· Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
· The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
· Dinner on day 1.
· Personal expenses.
· Tips for the driver and local guide.
· Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
· It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
· The official check-in time at the hotel Shangri-La The Marina is at 2pm.
· Kindly note that a minimum number of participants is required for this trip to proceed. As a result, both the price and itinerary may be adjusted based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum number not be met, we will offer you an alternative arrangement.
Contacts of your hotel:
Shangri-La The Marina
Pierpoint Road Cairns
Queensland 4870, Australia
Telephone: +61 7 4031 1411
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
£440/person*
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Overnight in darwin (1 night)

Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 – Darwin
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
You will depart the hotel by coach for a panoramic tour of Darwin. Located in Australia's Northern Territory, also known as the "Top End", Darwin is a beautiful tropical city, where over 50 different cultures live and work side by side.
Discover Darwin's rich history and culture and learn about Darwin's role during World War II as you see its many historic wartime landmarks. You will drive past St Marys Cathedral, travel up to and along the Esplanade, the Parliament House, the Old Court House, the Anglican Cathedral. Pass Bicentennial Park, and the Old Town hall ruins. Continue to Botanic Garden where you will be guided by the scents and colours of these green spaces.
Lunch is served in a local restaurant.
After lunch, you will visit on your own the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT), which boasts an impressive collection of indigenous art.
The tour will end at the Hilton Darwin Hotel 5*.
Check-in your room.
The afternoon is at leisure. Dinner is included at the hotel.
Day 2 – Darwin
After breakfast and check-out, time at leisure depending on your flight schedule.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Your hotel:
The Hilton Darwin offers an ideal location in the heart of the city within walking distance of shopping and entertainment. The elegant rooms are light and equipped with contemporary furniture for a warm and comfortable ambience. The hotel features a 10th-floor outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, and a stylish bar and restaurant.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
· 1-night accommodation in Guest room with harbour view at Hilton Darwin 5*, local standards (or similar) including breakfast.
· Meals as mentioned in the programme.
· Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 glass of wine and 1 coffee or tea).
· Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
· The services of a local guide on the group transfer.
Your programme does not include:
· Personal expenses.
· Tips for the driver and local guide.
· Early check-in and late check-out.
· Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
· It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
· Official hotel check-in time is 3:00 p.m.
· Official hotel check-out time is 12:00 a.m.
· Early check-in or late check-out might be available depending on availability and on a supplement basis.
Contact of your hotel:
Hilton Darwin
B 32 Mitchell St
Darwin City NT 0800
Australia
Telephone: (+61) 8 8982 0000
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
£530/person*
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Flights fom/ to paris + cairns, at the edge of australia' s tropical rainforest (1 night) + post overnight in darwin (1 night)

-.-/person*
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.New Guinea Odyssey
Other available date
06/11/2522/11/25
16 nights aboard the ship Le Jacques Cartier
PONANT Bonus 15%
From
/person*
24/10/2609/11/26
16 nights aboard the ship LE SOLÉAL
PONANT Bonus 15%
From
/person*