melissa joins true north, nov 2006


cruise:

Papua New Guinea 'Adventures in Paradise' Alotau-Kavieng. It was all very easy - we boarded a charter flight in Cairns and flew to Alotau (with a short stopover in Port Moresby to get our passports stamped). At the end of the cruise we boarded the charter flight again (back to Cairns). These flights are included in the cruise cost - meaning no time wasted sailing between Cairns and PNG (eliminating sea sickness!)

cabin: ocean class (lower deck)

My cabin was comfortable and had all of the mod-cons (plasma tv, ensuite, etc). There was a porthole and fixed single beds (not bunks). If you can afford it, I would recommend a Stateroom on the Main or Upper deck as these are more spacious, and have large viewing windows bringing you closer to the action (nothing beats waking up in the morning and looking out the massive windows next to your bed at spectacular scenery). All cabins aboard True North can be split into twin bedding.

top 3 activities:

1)  Walking through villages and meeting the locals. I enjoyed listening to the children singing as we entered each village. Each village is so untouched by tourism, I felt like I was exploring places that noone else had!

2) Snorkelling in warm, crystal clear water. The marine life is amazing! We even jumped off the tender boat and swam with dolphins. Unforgettable.

3) Spotting the Bird of Paradise. Our local guide had a great eye for them and it certainly was an impressive sight when we saw her perched in the branches above us!

food report:

Like dining out at a 5 star restaurant for every meal! A great selection of meats, seafood, salads, desserts, fruits, and all things gourmet. Possibly the best food I've ever eaten. 
 

this cruise is ideal for:

Adventurous people who enjoy exploring untouched places. Especially loved by divers (and snorkellers); nature lovers; people interested in the war (there are plane, tank and submarine wrecks everywhere); and anyone who has dreamt of visiting the islands of the South Pacific in style.

most useful item i packed:

Reef walkers - I'd use them for shore landings in the tender boats then for walking through the villages. These shoes are great because they are quick dry. 

value for money:

Absolutely. If you went on a first class holiday anywhere in the world with all accommodation, 5 star meals, daily activities and guides included, you'd find the price very comparable. Not to mention waking up in a different spot each day with everything prepared and ready to go.