Uncover the ancient tradition of shark calling
Discover island villages, markets and WWII relics
Venture offshore on a blue-water fishing adventure
Cool off in a fresh-water swimming hole
Savour a traditional mumu feast cooked in the earth with hot stones
Swim with hundreds of Spinner Dolphins in their breeding ground
Witness the Baining Fire Dance where men immerse themselves in flames and escape unharmed
Travel in style with Executive Check-in, Executive Lounge access and expert support throughout
In Papua New Guinea’s remote northeast, the New Guinea Islands (“Niugini” in Tok Pisin) are a tropical haven of white sand beaches, dense jungle, and turquoise reef, offering a slower, more relaxed rhythm of life. Look closer and you’ll find communities whose daily lives remain deeply connected to the land and sea, with traditions carried forward much as they have been for generations. From the bustling markets of Kavieng to the volcanic landscapes of Rabaul, this journey takes you across New Ireland and East New Britain for experiences both cultural and adventurous.
On the far edge of Papua New Guinea, New Ireland’s rugged coastline has long lured surfers and seafarers, yet it remains one of the country’s most quietly kept secrets. Exhale, relax and enjoy this tropical paradise where picnics on remote beaches, sunset cruises, and blue-water fishing adventures all await. Travel deeper as you journey east to remote villages where the ancient practice of shark calling is still alive. Meet a master shark caller, listen to the legends, and see the handmade tools that have carried this very spiritual tradition through generations. From the ocean’s ancient practices to the land’s enduring food traditions, each experience reveals another layer of island life. Trace the journey from cocoa bean to bar as you experience the farm-to-table art of chocolate making and then conclude your time in New Ireland by sharing in a mumu feast cooked in the earth.
A ferry connects you to East New Britain, an island where history runs deep. Explore WWII bunkers and Japanese tunnels, the lingering impact of volcanic eruptions, and iconic landmarks that have shaped Rabaul’s story. Balance this with the chance to swim with pods of Spinner Dolphins at a breeding ground, and witness the extraordinary Baining Fire Dance, a cultural ritual unlike any other.
From village rituals to volcanic landscapes, every day brings a new perspective on life in the Niugini Islands.
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
Signature Tour 
Welcome to Papua New Guinea! Located in the southwestern Pacific, this remarkable country encompasses the eastern half of New Guinea along with its surrounding islands. Famed for its immense cultural and biological diversity, Papua New Guinea offers a truly unique travel experience with pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant coral reefs that continue to draw nature lovers and adventure seekers from around the world.
After clearing customs and immigration at Port Moresby Airport, make your way to the domestic terminal for a swift check-in for your included flight to Kavieng. After receiving your boarding pass, head into the Executive Lounge where you can relax and enjoy complimentary food and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as complimentary Wi-Fi. The flight to Kavieng is approximately 1.5-hours, with a brief stopover in Rabaul.
Once you arrive in Kavieng, you will be met at the airport for your transfer to Nusa Island Retreat. It is a short 5-minute drive to the wharf, followed by a short 2-minute banana boat ride to the island. Upon arrival, you will be shown to your premium bungalow where you can check in and relax, before enjoying what is referred to as Papua New Guinea’s best buffet dinner. The selection of fresh seafood, vegetables and proteins is superb and is one of the main attractions of Nusa Island Retreat. (D)
Overnight – Nusa Island Retreat, Kavieng (or similar) in a Premium Beachfront or Overwater Bungalow
Waking up at Nusa is something special. The sunrise over Kavieng Harbour is magical, and a fresh a la carte breakfast awaits you.
Depending on the tides and weather, you will be treated to a half day of fishing today. Whether you are a beginner or avid angler, you will certainly enjoy some time out on the water. There are a range of pelagic species in the area, and if you’re lucky enough to reel in a Yellow-Fin Tuna, you will be treated to the freshest sashimi you have ever experienced.
After lunch at the resort, you will be taken on a guided tour of Nusa Lik and Nusa Lavu Island. Nusa Island Retreat is located on Nusa Lik (Small Nusa) Island, and here you will visit some villages, as well as the Panaconda Craft Market, which is home to hand-made arts and crafts. Be sure to take a small amount of cash in case something catches your eye. Nusa Lavu (Big Nusa) is home to some WWII anti-aircraft guns, and a spectacular natural blowhole. It is a gentle walk through the jungle but be sure to wear proper walking shoes as the blow-hole area can be a bit rocky. Return to the resort late afternoon to catch the sunset and enjoy another delicious dinner. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Nusa Island Retreat, Kavieng (or similar) in a Premium Beachfront or Overwater Bungalow
Following an early breakfast, take a short 5-minute boat ride across the harbour for a guided tour of the Kavieng Markets. Located on the coastline, the range of fresh produce (including plenty of mud crabs) is a great experience.
We will then head back to the retreat to load up the boat for a day spent on Nusa’s sister island, Nago. Only a 10-minute banana boat ride from Nusa, the sand is white and the water turquoise. Enjoy the day relaxing with a prepared picnic lunch. The island has bathroom facilities available, and if you feel like swinging a golf club, there is a makeshift couple of golf holes where you can ask the friendly staff at Nusa to loan you a few clubs to make the day that little more special. You will be picked up from Nago late-afternoon and be given a relaxing cruise of the outer islands as the sunsets. Return to Nusa as night falls for your final dinner on the island. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Nusa Island Retreat, Kavieng (or similar) in a Premium Beachfront or Overwater Bungalow
After breakfast at the resort, it will be time to pack up and check out as we will aim to begin today’s tour by 9am. Please order a packed lunch provided by your resort for this trip.
Today, we will make our way down the Boluminski Highway, with our destination being Rubio Plantation Resort. Along the way, we will visit a freshwater eel farm where you will have the chance to feed the eels (and if you’re game enough, hold the eels). You will then continue to a freshwater swimming hole for a refreshing swim, as well as stopping at Dalom Village.
The drive down is organised, yet casual, with the main goal to reach Rubio by late-afternoon. Once we arrive at Rubio Plantation Resort, you will check-in to your room and be treated to a delicious dinner. The specialty cuisine of Rubio Plantation Resort are their desserts, as they produce their own chocolate on site – a tour which you will experience tomorrow. Fall asleep to the sounds of the ocean as we prepare for another day activities tomorrow. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Rubio Plantation Resort (or similar) in a Waterfront Bungalow
Rise early for breakfast by the beach before we undertake a day of diverse experiences. Our first experience will be on site at Rubio Plantation Resort. Here, you will be shown the farm to table process of chocolate production. Take a walk through the cocoa plantation to see how the plant is grown and harvested. You will then witness firsthand the chocolate making process and of course be given some samples to ensure the product is quality (which it always is!).
From here, we will take a one-hour drive to the West Coast of New Ireland to Komolabur Village. Here, you will be given a warm welcome by the villagers, and a master shark caller will show you the traditional practices of shark calling. Shark calling is more than just a method of fishing, it is a ritual of deep cultural and spiritual significance, with shark callers regarded as highly respected men in their communities. Traditionally, a shark caller will paddle alone in a small wooden canoe, carrying a rattle or lure crafted from coconut shells, seeds, and other natural materials. The sharks are summoned using a combination of shaking the rattle through the water and chanting, with many believing the sharks respond because of ancestral ties rather than the tools themselves.
Learn the legends behind shark calling and handle the tools crafted for this spiritual tradition. Watch a demonstration on land that explains the methods, shared responsibly without catching sharks.
A packed lunch will be provided and can be enjoyed in the village during this experience. From here, we will make our way back to Rubio Plantation Resort where you will witness the traditional style of cooking known as a mumu. With a large hole dug in the ground, rocks are heated up to high temperatures and proteins and vegetables wrapped in banana leaves. Placed on top and below the hot rocks, the food is cooked slow, resulting in delicious flavours. Enjoy this locally prepared dinner this evening. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Rubio Plantation Resort (or similar) in a Waterfront Bungalow
It will be an early rise at Rubio Plantation Resort to check out from your room as we make our way to the West Coast of New Ireland to board the ferry service across to East New Britain. The trip takes approximately 1.5-hours and is operated on a 40-seat covered vessel.
Upon arrival in East new Britain, you will be transferred to your accommodation for check in. Settle in and enjoy lunch at your leisure. This afternoon, you will be privately transferred for a tour of Kokopo town. Kokopo town was once the fastest growing city in the Pacific, following the eruption of Mt. Tavurur in 1994. Many people from Rabaul moved to Kokopo following the eruption and it has fast become one of Papua New Guinea’s largest regional cities. We will make our way back to the resort late-afternoon to watch the sunset over Blanche Bay and enjoy a nice dinner on the over-water balcony. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Rubio Plantation Resort (or similar) in a Waterfront Bungalow
After breakfast, you will be picked up and privately transferred to begin an historical tour of Rabaul. Discover and learn about the historical significance Rabaul has had over the years, throughout both world wars and two major volcanic eruptions. One of the key sites is Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto’s bunker, used by the Japanese commander who planned the attack on Pearl Harbour. You will also explore the Japanese underground tunnels and submarine base, an elaborate system carved into volcanic rock to protect supplies, troops, and vessels from Allied bombing raids. Another stop is the Niugini Club, established in the colonial era and long regarded as a landmark of Rabaul’s social history.
Lunch will be at the Rabaul Hotel, one of the few surviving structures from the 1994 volcanic eruptions that flattened most of the town. We will make our way back to Kokopo mid-afternoon where will stop off at the Kokopo War Museum. This site is home to many artefacts from WWII and is a great place to further piece together the history that was endured during the war times in Papua New Guinea. We will return to the hotel late afternoon where you can relax and enjoy dinner at the resort this evening. (B,L,D)
Rapopo Plantation Resort, Kokopo (or similar) in a Premium Poolside Room
As the sun rises, head down to the beachfront where you will board a banana boat and head to a nearby dolphin breeding ground. You will have the chance to swim with hundreds of Spinner Dolphins this morning, freeing your mind and giving you an intimate connection with nature.
We will return to the resort for breakfast at around 0830 before we head off to a Karavia Village. Here, we will explore Japanese tunnels from WWII. We will take a guided walk in the maze of these tunnels, which go down around 20m deep. The tunnels consist of 3 stories, including a kitchen and a myriad of escape routes. We will return to the resort where you can enjoy lunch at your leisure and relax before this evening’s final spectacle.
As we are heading off on an evening tour, we anticipate returning to the resort around 8:30pm – 9:00pm, so it is recommended to place your dinner order with the resort staff prior to departing and it will be ready for you upon your return. At around 4:30pm, we will depart for an exclusive cultural experience featuring the Linganga, known to Westerners as the Fire Dance. The Baining clan, distinct among the cultures of Papua New Guinea, does not use the traditional Kundu drum for rhythm; instead, they utilize bamboo, producing a unique sound that complements the fire dance. This ritual is performed exclusively by highly ranked initiated men and offers a profound spectacle, deeply rooted in ancient tradition, that cannot be experienced anywhere else in the world. (B,L,D)
Rapopo Plantation Resort, Kokopo (or similar) in a Premium Poolside Room
Following breakfast at the hotel, you will be privately transferred to Rabaul (Tokua) Airport for your flight to Port Moresby. You will have access to the Executive Lounge while waiting for your flight where you can enjoy a comfortable setting and complimentary WiFi. (B)
This tour is part of our Signature Papua New Guinea collection. There are our hallmark small-group journeys – seamless, elevated, and authentic.
Experience Papua New Guinea in comfort with meticulously curated journeys designed to make travel as smooth and stress-free as possible. PNG is an extraordinary destination, but travel here can be challenging – flights may change, infrastructure can be unpredictable, and navigating it alone can feel overwhelming.
That’s why every journey begins and ends at Port Moresby airport, with our team handling everything from the moment you land until you depart. You’ll be personally met, assisted with currency exchange and local SIM cards, and guided through the busy domestic terminal with executive check-in for your flights, and lounge access at both the start and end of your trip at domestic airports.
While we can’t control every variable in a destination with the unique complexities of Papua New Guinea, this style of travel offers the smoothest possible experience. With small groups of maximum 12 guests and our most trusted local partners, you’ll explore PNG with confidence, supported by a team that blends deep local knowledge with an understanding of Western traveller expectations.
Why you will love our Signature Papua New Guinea collection:
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
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**Please note that this tour can be organised on request for private departures.
* Pricing is Twin Share. Single supplement cost is $1762 AUD
* Pricing is subject to change at anytime until full payment has been received.
* A minimum of 6 adults is required to guarantee this departure. The maximum group size is 12.
A non-refundable deposit of 30% per person is required to secure your place. Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to departure. Travel insurance is mandatory for travelling with Crooked Compass. For full terms and conditions, please click here.
Small group tours providing intimate connections to gain a deeper understanding and emotional connection to the community, tribes, cultures and lands explored.
Exploring the world’s most remote reaches and challenging destinations requires a high level of expertise which can only be learned from first-hand experience. We know because we go.
In an ever-changing global landscape of rules, regulations and restrictions, rest-assured you are being looked after by those in the know. Given the remote regions that we explore, our passengers safety is our top priority.
Stay up to date with the latest travel trends and new destinations opening up. To be the first to go, you need to be the first to know.
Travel professionals are welcome. For partnerships or agent enquiries, we recommend contacting us directly.
This category of tours involves light trekking, walking, cycling, rafting or kayaking for a few hours each day with a small amount of inclines and declines. You will require a reasonable level of fitness and good health to participate. It is important to note that due to the nature of some of our trips, they may take place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and can involve long travelling days on various modes of transport.
Suggested preparation : At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake aerobic exercise (this may include jogging, cycling or fast walking) for 30 minutes, three times a week. It is also advised to walk on variable terrain and in variable weather conditions. For a cycling adventure, road cycling twice a week is recommended and for adventures which involve paddling and kayaking, it is important to gain confidence and rhythm rather than speed prior to departure.
This category of tours involve trekking, kayaking and cycling for period of 6 to 8 hours a day at a fairly consistent pace. Ideal for people looking to slightly increase the heart rate. For our moderately rated tours, you must have a good level of fitness and also be in good health. It is also important to be prepared for variable weather conditions. Altitude may also come into play. This category of tours may involve visiting remote areas where facilities can be quite basic. Accommodation may also involve camping, homestays or basic accommodation where facilities may not be considered of western standards. To enjoy this style of travel, it is suggested for travellers to have a reasonable level of fitness and health, a positive attitude, as well as a fairly active lifestyle. An open mind is also required.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake 45mins – 1 hour of aerobic exercise, three to four times a week. Some potential exercises that could be beneficial include hill walking with a backpack on over variable terrain and weather conditions, as well as running and cycling dependent on the activity you plan on undertaking.
This category of tours involves trekking, kayaking, cycling or other adventure activities in remote areas for up to 8 to 10 hours a day. It is important to note that with the remoteness of some regions comes a variety of other challenges such as variable weather conditions, accommodation as well as facilities. You must have an excellent level of fitness and good health to be able to partake in this category of tour. You must have confidence in your own ability and be in good physical condition. Includes extended periods of endurance.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 to 4 months of strenuous exercise, four times a week. When preparing for treks it would be beneficial to participate in hill walks with a weighted day pack (approximately 5-8 kg) once a week for aerobic fitness and strengthening of leg muscles. It is also important to do this on variable terrain to prepare for challenging adventures. When preparing for cycling adventures, regular bike riding (at least 4 to 5 times a week for 1-4 hours is essential). It is also important to cycle on uneven surfaces or even participate in other aerobic exercises such as running or swimming to build up strength and stamina. Altitude may also be a factor in these tours.
This category of tour often involves extreme trekking, cycling or other extreme adventure activities. It is important to expect remote and poorly defined tracks and to be prepared for variable weather conditions for 10 to 12 hours per day (may sometimes be more depending on weather and altitude). These adventures are suitable for travellers who have prior experience in strenuous travel and activities, are extremely fit and have excellent health. It is also important to note that some of the terrain on these adventures will involve trekking in snow, at high attitude levels and may require technical equipment.
Suggested preparation: It is important to note that physical fitness should be an ongoing activity, commencing around 5-6 months prior to departure, or even before if you have no prior fitness. Exercise should focus on building maximum endurance and stamina. Four to five hard sessions of 40-60 mins per week should be completed and can include exercises such as going to the gym, running, swimming or cycling to focus on building aerobic stamina. It could also be beneficial to prepare by hiking on rough terrain, in extreme weather conditions or partake in altitude training.
Our Signature Tours are the cornerstone of the Crooked Compass journey: meticulously designed small-group itineraries that balance authenticity, comfort, and ease. These are destinations where travel can be complex—from navigating evolving logistics to reaching places far from the usual tourist path—yet our expertise ensures your experience feels smooth, effortless, and deeply rewarding.
From the moment you arrive, every detail is handled with care. You’re welcomed personally on arrival and met for a private transfer to your accommodation, where you’ll join the rest of your group. Your guide will walk you through an orientation, helping you understand the rhythm of the journey ahead and settling you in with clear, practical insights from the very start.
Accommodation is selected for both comfort and character, reflecting the richness of its locality through thoughtful design, creative ingenuity, and a genuine sense of place. Whether it’s a boutique property, a sustainable lodge or a homestay, each choice is made to connect you meaningfully with the destination.
Cultural integration sits at the heart of our approach. Every itinerary is crafted with respect for local communities, aligning sensitively with their values and protecting the authenticity of their culture. Through this, travellers experience a deeper connection —stories shared firsthand, traditions encountered in their true context, and moments that shift perspectives long after returning home.
With a maximum of 12 travellers and our most trusted local partners, you explore with confidence, guided by teams who combine deep regional knowledge with an intuitive understanding of Western traveller expectations. Through the powerful medium of storytelling, our journeys inspire personal reflection and spark genuine emotion, turning travel into something transformative.
For travellers seeking even more flexibility or personalisation, our Tours By Design journeys are crafted with the same care — mindfully designed around your interests for a more tailored experience.
Why travellers love our Signature Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Founders Tours are rare, one-of-a-kind journeys personally hosted by Crooked Compass founder, Lisa Pagotto. Designed for the traveller who seeks more than just adventure, these exclusive small-group expeditions uncover places few have ever seen – experiences not featured in our regular collection, chosen for their depth, beauty, and story.
Each itinerary is hand-crafted by Lisa to offer meaningful connection and unique access built through years of trust and collaboration with local communities. Travelling alongside her gives you an unparalleled perspective into the world of ethical exploration – from the behind-the-scenes partnerships that shape our journeys, to the human stories that inspire them.
With an intimate group size and seamless support from our expert team, a Founders Tour is less a trip, and more a masterclass in discovery.
Why travellers love Founders Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Set sail on a rare journey across remote islands, wild coastlines, and untouched ecosystems aboard a small, luxury expedition vessel. Travelling by sea unlocks access to places few travellers ever reach – from isolated villages and pristine reefs to dramatic landscapes that can’t be accessed by land – while each evening, you return to the comfort of your beautifully appointed cabin.
These voyages blend adventure with refinement. Expert-led excursions bring you face-to-face with raw nature and vibrant cultures, while exceptional onboard dining, service, and comfort allow time to unwind and reflect.
To complete your experience, Crooked Compass can seamlessly craft pre- or post-cruise land extensions, ensuring your journey flows effortlessly from sea to shore.
Why travellers love our Expedition Cruises:
More about out Tour Styles.
Our Tours by Design experiences are private journeys curated exclusively for you by the Crooked Compass team. Whether you’re drawn to one of our existing itineraries, wish to adapt a small-group tour for private travel, or want to design something entirely new, we’ll craft a journey that reflects your pace, passions, and sense of discovery.
Why pay for inclusions that don’t fit? With Tours by Design, every detail is intentional – from the destinations and experiences to your style of travel and choice of accommodation. Each itinerary is hand-built through our deep local partnerships and expertise, ensuring authenticity, comfort, and connection in every moment.
Why travellers love Tours by Design:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Partner Tours are carefully chosen group journeys operated by our long-standing, in-country partners — experts who share our values of authenticity, cultural respect, and meaningful connection. These departures, averaging between 17 and 22 travellers, are designed and delivered by our partners, while Crooked Compass manages your booking and provides full support from start to finish.
Enjoy the reassurance of booking through an Australian-based company, delivering our same personalised service and attention to detail you expect from Crooked Compass. We take care of the logistics, so you can focus on what matters most – the journey itself.
Why travellers love our Partner Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
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