Alotau, the capital of Milne Bay Province, is located at the eastern tip of mainland Papua New Guinea. The rugged Owen Stanley Ranges to the west have isolated Alotau and there is no road access to the rest of the country.

Many of the population of around 10,000 rely on the sea for their livelihood and as a result the busy harbour is the focal point of the town. Cargo movements drive harbour activity, and there is an array of colourful vessels to be seen, ranging from tiny canoes to well-equipped charter boats.

Australian military history is closely linked to this area. The recently completed Battle of Milne Bay War Memorial is close to the foreshore and has a detailed description of the battle. In August 1942, the battle over Gurney Airstrip saw the Australians win the first significant land-based victory over Japanese forces in the Pacific. Remnants of the battle are still being discovered, with aircraft, vehicles and tanks to be found on land and on the seabed.

Australian troops had, at Milne Bay, inflicted on the Japanese their first undoubted defeat on land. Some of us may forget that, of all the allies, it was the Australians who first broke the invincibility of the Japanese army.

Included Expeditions
Alotau township and the colourful markets are only a short walk from the wharf, past a significant war memorial and the busy harbour. For Orion guests who do not wish to walk, a complimentary shuttle bus is available, or, as another option, Alotau is one of the few places in Papua New Guinea to have a taxi service.

There are three different tours that you can choose from today as your inclusive activity. The Alotau WWII History Tour is graded as an easy tour focusing on the WWII history of the region, the Alotau Highlights Tour is more general in scope covering both historical and cultural aspects and is also an easy tour to participate in, and finally the Alotau Bat Cave Adventure which requires a little more physical dexterity and an adventurous spirit.

ALOTAU WWII HISTORY TOUR
Sometimes battles are fought for the prize of a harbour, a city or a town. The Battle for Milne Bay was fought for an Airstrip that is today called Gurney Airport but back in August 1942, was simply known as Number 1 Strip. A small garrison of mainly Australian Infantry and RAAF crews fought off a numerically superior Japanese force to win a battle that was a turning point in the war. This tour will follow the battle from landing zone to the airstrip where the Australians turned the Japanese force back. Knowledgeable local guides will give you a unique insight into every twist and turn in the battle.

This tour includes visits to:
• Turnbull War Memorial – visit the site of the original No.3 airstrip during WWII and its memorial to Australia’s Squadron Leader, Peter St George Turnbull, who was killed during the Battle of Milne Bay.
• Alotau War Memorial – a stop at the commemorative plaque in the town centre.
• Corporal John French Memorial at Goilani River – see the monument to Corporal John French, honoured with the Victoria Cross for his outstanding actions at this site.
• Wahuhuba Bay - see the site where the Japanese first landed, and where the first exchange of gunfire in the Battle of Milne Bay took place.
• Giligili – see the remains of the wharf that it is believed was used by American troops during WWII for fuel loading.
• Nigila – experience the privilege of accessing privately owned land where six American landing barges were “dumped”, 1km from the shore.

ALOTAU HIGHLIGHTS TOUR
Alotau has been the capital of Milne Bay Province since 1966. Prior to this the area was known as Hiwehiwe in the local Tawala language, which means “slight breeze”. This tour will allow you to experience the town, the history, the culture and the local people, with a visit to a small village just outside the town area at the base of the Stirling Ranges, as well as stops along the way to WWII memorial sites.

This tour includes:
• Pick up from (and drop off to) the wharf
• Ahioma – a drive around Milne Bay to the beaches of Ahioma where war barge wrecks still stand.
• Toptown Lookout – photograph the panoramic view of Milne Bay.
• During the drive, you will be shown the Alotau Market, the town centre, the Alotau War Memorial and Alotau Hospital Alotau Cathedral and Anglican Church.
• Turnbull War Memorial – visit this memorial and the site of the No.3 airstrip during WWII.
• Rabe Village - experience Milne Bay culture first hand, sample local delicacies and learn about traditional customs.
• Artefact Shopping – your opportunity to collect authentic Milne Bay quality artefacts, which include carved bowls, clay pots, Trobriand grass skirts and woven baskets.

ALOTAU BAT CAVE ADVENTURE
Just 20km from town is an extensive cave system. These caves are still unchartered, however the “Bat Cave”, or “Damawewe”, is known by the private landowners of Yane Yanene village. With local guides, you are able to venture into the large caverns (some several metres high), through tunnels and across underground streams.

The limestone formations and thousands of bats create a spectacular sight that you’ll long remember.

Expect to get a little wet and dirty, but it will be an unforgettable experience!
It is best to wear old clothing for this trip. Requires a medium level of fitness, suitable footwear and can involve a lot of contact with mud and guano.

The Cairns region is internationally recognised for worldclass attractions, superb natural features and friendly north Queensland hospitality. It is the focal point for the magnificent World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and is surrounded by tropical rainforests. Visitors enjoy browsing at indigeneous art galleries, shopping at the night markets and dining out on multicultural cuisine in the many restaurants along the esplanade.

In 1793 the French vessel Esperance marked the first European visit to the Trobriand Islands, which were named after the first lieutenant on board - Denis de Trobriand. The area soon became a hub for trading ships from Europe, American whalers and German ships seeking supplies of yams.

The islands are famed for its beautiful beaches and today you’ll have the chance to visit a village and see examples of the distinctive yam houses. The people rely on subsistence farming and fishing, and the yam plays a very important role in their diet. More than just the staple diet, yams are revered by all, being proudly displayed after harvesting and then kept in elaborate storehouses. The unique Trobriand culture was studied by the anthropologist Bronislaw Malinowski in the early 1900’s and resulted in the islands being dubbed (perhaps erroneously) “The Island of Love”.

Orion guests will be able to admire and purchase carvings which are renowned throughout Papua New Guinea for their high quality and workmanship – look for walking sticks, small stools and bowls of various shapes and sizes.

Included Expeditions
Our visit today will be to Kitava Island and the lagoon formed by the tiny coral cay of Nuratu Island just off the main beach of Kitava. Here locals will perform some of the Trobriands famous dances including the Tapioca Dance. There will be opportunities to walk up to a nearby village during the day and see the famous Trobriand Yam houses. Swimming, snorkelling and sea kayaking will be available in the lagoon all day as well.

Early this morning, Orion will enter the spectacular Madang Lagoon, something worth climbing out of bed for. Madang itself is a pretty town set on a peninsula, with lush gardens and magnificent vistas of tropical seascapes, islands and inlets.

The market is a must-see – with masses of colourful produce, shell jewellery, woven bags known as bilums, carvings and Bilbil clay pots, which are a local specialty. The old German cemetery is close to the marketplace and the weathered stones are reminders of the German colonial past.

Divers come from around the world to dive sites just offshore, which encompass wartime wrecks, pelagic marine life, reef-filled shallow lagoons and drift-diving off deep drops. In the centre of the harbour is the wreck of a US minesweeper (the Boston), still intact after over 50 years.

Included Expeditions
Orion guests will be free to explore Madang and the markets today by complimentary shuttle bus. Our Expedition Team will also conduct guided walks of the town and market areas.
An inclusive tour to Bilbil Village is also available for those who wish to join in.
MADANG BILBIL VILLAGE TOUR
A minibus will transfer you from the wharf to downtown Madang today to visit the Town Markets with their colourful array of fresh fruits and handmade artefacts.

Our visit to the town will be followed by a fascinating visit to the village of Bilbil, famous for its earthenware pots, which you may wish to purchase. The houses in the village are made from traditional materials, such as the Sago Palm, and often an entire house can be constructed without the use of nails.

The Bilbil people will treat you to a traditional sing-sing while you sip a cool drink.

On the return journey a stop will be made at the local museum, the Haus Tambaran, to observe the historical and cultural items they have on display.

Optional Shoreside Expedition
Please note, if you wish to partake in the included Bilbil Village Tour you will be unable to choose the Scuba Diving option.

MADANG SCUBA DIVE
Madang has long been the tourism centre of Papua New Guinea and the diving around the area is something special.

The local operator is one of the most experienced operators in Papua New Guinea, and can offer a morning of two dives at one or two of the local dive sites with the exact location chosen dependant on local conditions on the day.

Certified divers only: must show certification.

Duration: Half Day
Grade: Certified divers only
Cost: $180 per person – two dives - price to be confirmed onboard

Set at the eastern end of the island of New Britain, the tropical port town of Rabaul has always been famous for its spectacular setting. Nestled beside Simpson Harbour, the township is surrounded by six volcanoes, one of which, Mt Tavurvur, is still active today. During more than 100 years of settlement, Rabaul has been rocked by massive volcanic eruptions and war, a testament to the resilience of the townsfolk who have rebuilt after each event.

The most recent major volcanic eruption was in September 1994 when Tavurvur and Vulcan covered much of Rabaul and surrounding villages with volcanic ash. This eruption saw the growth of the nearby coastal town of Kokopo which has now become the administrative and tourism centre for East New Britain, replacing Rabaul in that role..

The area played a significant role in WWII and the Japanese occupation in 1942 saw the building of hundreds of kilometres of tunnels underneath the town and the Gazelle Peninsula as protection against constant Allied bombing raids. It is almost hard to miss the rusting relics left over by the retreating forces. In one tunnel are five huge barges that were pulled along rails to the shore and back by prisoners of war. Dozens of sunken aircraft and ships dot the harbour and to the north are sea caves used as a drop-off point by Japanese submarines.

As we depart, Orion will cruise right past the active volcano, Mt Tavurvur.

Included Expeditions
The rebuilt town area of Rabaul is just a short walk from the wharf.

A courtesy shuttle running to the edge of the ash area where the Rabaul Hotel, Yamamoto’s Bunker and the Historical Society are situated will be available.

During your day in Rabaul you can also choose one of two included tours. The two tours on offer are the Rabaul History and Highlights Tour or the Rabaul Volcano Adventure. The Volcano Adventure requires a greater degree of physical ability and a sense of adventure where as the History and Highlights Tour is suitable for just about anybody and mainly involves visiting local features by bus.

RABAUL HISTORY & HIGHLIGHTS TOUR
Jump aboard a mini-bus to explore the eerie ghost town of old Rabaul sitting metres under tonnes of ash dumped primarily by the twin eruptions of Mt Tavurvur and Mt Vulcan in 1994.

You will explore the old town and visit the old airport, which actually had aircraft and helicopters buried under ash in 1994 although they have since been recovered.

Visit the sight of a Japanese WWII Bomber wreck and also the command bunker of Admiral Yamamoto, the Japanese commander during WWII. See the tunnels used to hide Japanese barges from Allied planes carved into the sides of the mountains. Some of the tunnels still have barges in them.

No visit would be complete without stopping at the Volcanic Observatory that is keeping a close eye on the active Mt Tavurvur.

RABAUL VOLCANO ADVENTURE
This is a unique experience, tailor made just for Orion guests and highlighting the best that Rabaul has to offer.

Start your Rabaul Volcano Adventure by taking a Banana boat across to the base of the volcano. Local legend Susie Alexander, whose family has operated hotels in the town for generations, is your guide for the adventure around the volcano. A reasonable level of fitness is required. You will not be climbing to the rim of the volcano as the volcano is still active. Your tour will take place around the base of the volcano..

You will walk around the old lava flow and let the local Matupit villagers treat you to a “Kulau” (fresh green coconut) to refresh you after your efforts. There is a chance to see Megapodes (wild fowl) who make this area their home.

If you’ve got sturdy shoes and a sense of adventure, this tour is not to be missed. An experience you will only get in Papua New Guinea or for that matter only in Volcano Town, Rabaul!

**Actual itinerary depends on volcanic activity on the day**

In the early 1900s Samarai Island was the thriving colonial capital of the territory of Papua and the town’s streetscape carries reminders of those bygone, halcyon days. Back then it was described as one of the most beautiful places in the South Pacific.

Despite its faded-glory atmosphere, commerce is still the lifeblood of this tiny island, just 24ha in area, with inter-island trading ships frequenting the harbour. A pleasant stroll through the town can be taken past the wharf and the Trading Company opposite to the sports ground, which is still the scene of fiercely contested cricket matches. From here a relatively easy climb up the small hill near the old hospital is rewarded with wonderful views of the harbour and the China Strait.

The China Strait islands surrounding Samarai have a history of witchcraft that persists, despite the best efforts of missionaries to debunk stories of ghost ships and mysterious lights.

Just three kilometres west of Samarai is Kwato Island, where European traders broke their journey en route to the South Pacific in search of gold and to trade in mother of pearl, sandalwood and sea cucumbers (beche de mer).

In 1891 the Reverend Charles Abel and his wife, Beatrice, founded a church and mission, and established a series of self-sufficient coconut plantations to finance their religious work. Boat building also begun and the mission's boats were used to transport and supply Australian Coastwatchers during WWII. The Reverend Abel is best remembered for his theory that the game of cricket would have a civilising influence over the tribes and a local variation of the game is still strong in Papua New Guinea today.

The island is peaceful, with the remnants of boat-building equipment evident amongst the trees. A shady road leads to a hilltop clearing in the centre of the island and the impressive old stone church dating from 1937. Both the church and the sweeping views of the surrounding seas are worth the climb. During WWII this spot was used as a strategic gun position.

Also in the group is the uninhabited island of Deka Deka which we will use today as a base for swimming and snorkelling.

Included Expeditions
Orion guests will be transferred ashore by Zodiacs to Samarai where the Expedition Team will guide you in your exploration of the historical areas.
There will also be the opportunity to walk to the church on Kwato Island.
Orion will reposition in the afternoon closer to Deka Deka for water activities.

The meandering Sepik River is the longest river in Papua New Guinea and for years has been a major trading artery linking the coast and the interior. From the West Papuan border, the Sepik twists its way towards the coast where the river mouth is more than a mile wide. Orion will take two anchorage positions during the day, one close to the mouth of the Sepik River and the other nearby the village of Watam, which is home to a population of 300.

In Watam, guests will enjoy a cultural display and meet some of the villagers to gain an appreciation of Sepik River village life. Local artists will have carvings and woven baskets available for purchase.

The dense vegetation and swampland to be seen along the river’s edge is home to many species of birds – watch for egrets, herons, kites, jacanas, darters, cormorants and kingfishers. The two local species of crocodile may also be seen if we are lucky..

Included Expeditions
Our exclusive access to Watam village will give all of us an insight into life in a remote Sepik village that very few outsiders have witnessed, even today. There are no roads, no phones, there is no electricity and there are not too many other luxuries to be found.

The villagers will welcome us with a special “dragon” dance and continue with a performance of the dances of their ancestors. You will be shown how to make Sago, the staple food of the Sepik coastline, and the local teacher will open the school to us. Unique carvings and woven baskets will be available to buy.

After repositioning over lunch, Orion guests will be able to explore the river mouth of the mighty Sepik near the village of Kopar by Zodiac.

Today we will land at the Tami Islands, a seldom-visited island in Morobe Province not far from the town of Finschaffen.

The Tami Islands are a small group of uplifted coral atolls, with two main villages on the two larger islands and many smaller reefs and cays. In the centre is a beautiful, crystal clear blue lagoon with abundant marine life and stunning coral formations.

The local people will greet Orion with an authentic cultural performance and there will be an opportunity to purchase Tami artefacts and explore the islands and their beautiful gardens.

Included Expeditions
Your visit to the Tami Islands includes activities such as swimming, snorkelling and sea kayaking.

You will have time to explore the village today before moving to one of the smaller uninhabited islands for a beach BBQ.

The magnificent scenery around Cape Nelson on the north coast of the mainland is a well-kept secret. More than 30 fjords are carved into the shoreline with each fjord being surrounded by dense rainforest above sheer basalt walls, many with waterfalls plunging into the sea. Sandy beaches meet coral reefs and the crystal clear water is crammed with diverse marine life – a perfect combination for swimming, snorkelling and diving.

Local villages are set in isolated areas along the coast and on the imposing slopes of Mount Trafalgar. The cultural heritage of the area is based on subsistence farming and fishing. The Oro pottery and Tapa cloth-making is also renowned throughout Papua New Guinea.

The world's largest butterfly, the Queen Alexandra Birdwing, inhabits the rainforest, and specimens with a 30cm wingspan have been found. The world's largest grasshopper, longest stick insect and longest beetle can also be found in the Tufi area.

Included Expeditions
Orion will anchor outside the spectacular fjords and our Zodiacs will take guests ashore to a white sandy beach, for swimming, snorkelling and sea kayaking today.

You may also choose to participate in a local village tour, which includes being paddled in local outrigger canoes. This tour does require a reasonable level of physical dexterity.

TUFI VILLAGE EXPERIENCE
After a 20-minute cruise along the coast we enter one of the scenic fjords, where we glide along the clear and smooth waters until we pick up our local guides. We transfer to traditional outrigger canoes manned by the local people and are paddled further up into the fjord, passing under canopies of ancient mangrove forests. Some of these trees are well over sixty feet in height and are home to a wide range of colorful birds, including the huge hornbills.

While gliding along you will see the local people going about their tasks of hunting and gathering. We soon come to a small beach nestled on the bank of the now freshwater river; we disembark here and proceed on foot through the rainforest where we come to a small jungle clearing that has a small waterfall cascading down into a rock pool. Here we are offered a refreshing cool drink from a coconut and while enjoying the unique scenery, we will be given a demonstration of traditional canoe making. We then proceed back to the river where we continue down stream to our waiting boats and head over to the island.

Upon disembarking at the island, you will be given a traditional welcome by the villagers. You will be led to a shaded area to sit in comfort and experience the spectacular dances that are unique to the Tufi area.

You will have the opportunity to purchase some Tapa cloth, shell jewellery and other handicrafts for which this area is world-famous. The villagers will also give you a demonstration on the making of the Tapa cloth.

Optional Shoreside Expeditions
Only one optional tour per person can be pre-booked today.

TUFI SCUBA DIVE
Tufi Dive is a reputable operator with a great selection of dive sites close to our anchorage position. With a fleet of fast dive boats you’ll be in the water diving on world-class reefs in no time at all. The price includes all equipment and transfers.

This dive is for certified divers only and your certification card must be shown.

Cost of dive equipment hire is included.

Duration: Half Day
Grade: Certified divers only
Cost: $150 per person – one dive

OUTER REEF SNORKELLING TOUR
On departing Orion you will spend 30 minutes cruising out past the colourful reefs of the Solomon Sea. On the way keep a lookout for dolphins, giant manta rays, turtles and schools of pelagic fish. You will see a small dot on the horizon start to appear, this is our destination.

Cyclone Reef has a very small coral cay island that is surrounded by a pristine atoll. We tie up to our permanent buoy (so as not to damage the reef) and are then briefed by our local expert on the best parts of the reef to go snorkelling. You will enjoy a guided tour of this magnificent reef experiencing hundreds of different species of colourful fish, beautiful corals, crystal clear water and fantastic drop offs.

Duration: Half Day
Grade: Moderately Difficult
Cost: $95 per person

SUICIDE POINT WALK
You will be transferred to Tufi wharf to be welcomed by your guide William who is the son of the local chief.

The walk sets out from the Tufi Resort where you walk through grass lands towards Yagaruva Village. You will pass through this village and continue along a track that takes you to a spectacular lookout over the large fjords and islands. The walk will then lead you into the bush and along the ridge that divides the two fjords. Throughout this walk local flora and fauna of interest will be highlighted. You can expect to see many varieties of birds, including the hornbills, parrots, black and white cockatoos, sea eagles and the world’s largest butterfly, the “Queen Alexandra”. As you walk you will be treated to superb views of both the fjords and the mountain backdrop.

When the track comes to its narrowest point, the path is barely wide enough to accommodate one person at a time and it is all that separates you from vertical drops at either side into the brilliantly clear waters of the two fjords. This narrow division between the fjords is all that prevents Tufi Station from becoming an island. Resting on the path it is easy to see why Suicide Point is so named. After admiring the view and taking some photos you make your way back to the ship.

Duration: Half Day
Grade: Moderately Difficult
– rough terrain, no shade
Cost: $55 per person