Singapore, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea
Spend time in Papua New Guinea immersing yourself in authentic culture and fascinating history, then enjoy a taste of Asia’s remarkable diversity on an epic adventure encompassing a collection of contrasting destinations. Visits to beautiful islands and magnificent cities will present a mix of highlights, from iconic scenic landscapes to magnificent modern marvels and spectacular spiritual sites.
After meeting Boudicca on Australia’s gorgeous northeast coast in Cairns – gateway to the Great Barrier Reef –you’ll sail to Papua New Guinea for a chance to experience Alotau’s Cultural Festival. Rich in performances of traditional music, dance and chanting from groups from around the country, this extravagant expression of tribal culture is not-to-be-missed. Be sure to pick up few locally made souvenirs to take home with you too. Your calls at Alotau, Wewak and Madang also present opportunities to connect with Papua New Guinea’s war history and go in search of war ‘relics’ including impressive networks of caves and tunnels used by the Japanese in World War II. You’ll then embark on your Asian exploration, heading to Indonesia for a myriad of magical island scenes. Ambon Island’s gently mountainous landscapes and picturesque bays are yours to explore, while there’s also a rare chance to go ashore at Komodo Island and encounter Komodo Dragons – the world’s largest lizard – roaming freely among the spectacular landscapes of their natural habitat. Beautiful Bali awaits you too. You could discover Bali’s many attractions such as the Ubus rice terraces and the sacred Goa Gajah Elephant Cave; or simply take advantage of sun-soaked beaches on offer in Benoa. [ReadMore]
An overnight stay in Singapore – a showcase of Asia at its most modern, boasting soaring skyscrapers, energetic districts and vibrant city life – offers an interesting contrast to the islands on your itinerary, before Phuket provides another taste of paradise. Make the most of your time at the ‘Pearl of the Andaman’ to take an exhilarating speedboat ride to iconic Phang Nga Bay, where the scenery must be seen to be believed; or perhaps simply relax at your pick on the glorious beaches. In Myanmar, Thilawa is your stopping point for taking in the wonders of this extraordinary country. The awe-inspiring golden and gem-laden spires of the Shwedagon Pagoda, one of Buddhism’s most sacred sites, is not-to-be-missed in nearby Yangon, while the spiritual city of Bagan is within reach on a tour from Thilawa too. Finally, it’s on to Sri Lanka to conclude your cruise in Colombo. Before heading home, you’ll have time to enjoy an in-depth exploration of the Sri Lankan capital, home to impressive Buddhist and Hindu temples, mosques, museums and busy bazaars.