Alotau Cruises
Spread out across the hillsides and beautiful northern shores of Papua New Guinea’s picturesque Milne Bay, Alotau assumes a rarely visited, undiscovered feel. Visitors to Alotau can connect with nature amongst the town’s scenic surroundings and fauna-rich waters; unwind at the untrodden volcanic black sand beaches; and immerse themselves in authentic local culture. Alotau natives are proud of Papua New Guinea’s age-old heritage and traditions, which are celebrated at the not-to-be-missed Alotau Cultural Festival – an extravaganza of tribal music, dance and chanting. Also worth visiting for a taste of traditional life is Alotau’s bustling town market.
Although Alotau is relaxed and laid back today, it was an entirely different place just a few decades ago.[ReadMoreMob] In World War II, Alotau was on many occasions at the centre of fierce and bloody battles between Australian Allied soldiers and Japanese troops. It was here where the Japanese suffered its first decisive defeat in the Pacific Theatre. The Australian War Memorial offers a detailed description of the Battle of Milne Bay, while the Turnbull Memorial – a short distance from Alotau – commemorates the death of Australian Squadron Leader Peter St George Turnbull, who was killed during the battle.
Top Experiences
Traditional War Canoe
War canoes were an important part of Milne Bay life. These hand-crafted vessels, made from special woods and decorated in colourful patterns, are still used in festivals and rituals. Be sure to take up the chance of paddling in one during your visit.
Battle of Milne Bay
It’s hard to picture idyllic Milne Bay as a scene of combat, but during World War II the Australians and Japanese fought here. Various sites offer a sombre reminder of this time, from memorials to KB Mission, an area that saw some of the fiercest fighting.
Skull Cave
Located in a remote area of Milne Bay, this dark and eerie limestone cavern is the resting place of hundreds of cranial remains. Why the skulls are here is the subject of much debate, but a visit makes for an unsettling albeit fascinating experience.
Cruises to Alotau
World Cruise from Liverpool • S220107
- Embark on an incredible exploration aboard Borealis
- Marvel at Sydney’s Harbour Bridge
- Experience the contrasts between Singapore & Asian islands
World Cruise • S2202
- Embark on an incredible exploration aboard Borealis
- Sample paradise at unspoilt Pacific Islands
- Sail the remarkable Panama and Suez canals
Florida, Hawaii, Oceania & the Far East • S220305
- Experience an unforgettable start to 2022
- Discover paradise at the Pacific islands of Hawaii
- Take in Australian icons in Sydney, and the Great Barrier Reef
Around the World, Southampton to Liverpool • S220207
- Embark on an incredible exploration aboard Borealis
- Marvel at Sydney’s famous Harbour Bridge
- Experience the contrasts between Singapore & Asian islands
Hawaii, Oceania & the Far East • S220405
- Experience cities in the Americas, Oceania and Asia
- Sail to Australia, taking in Hawaii and French Polynesia
- Visit Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef
Hawaii & Oceania with Asia & the Med • S220406
- Discover iconic landmarks and marvel at idyllic island scenes
- Relax on paradise islands in Hawaii and French Polynesia
- Experience Asia and the diverse wonders of the Emirates
Exploring Australia & the Far East • S2205
- Discover Australian cities and Asian destinations
- Go in search of natural wonders such as the Great Barrier Reef
- Visit Papua New Guinea; explore Bali, Phuket and Komodo Island
Australia, the Far East & the Med • S220506
- Experience an adventure packed with stunning landscapes
- Marvel at the Great Barrier Reef, Singapore and Mumbai
- Discover the ‘Lost City’ of Petra, and sail Egypt’s Suez Canal