North Star Cruises’ West Papua Discoverer Cruise Opens for Bookings

Bookings are now being taken for North Star Cruises’ much anticipated West Papua Discoverer cruise which explores an untouched paradise of hidden culture and incredible natural scenery.

North Star’s General Manager, Peter Trembath said interest in this remote region had never been greater as today’s travellers increasingly sought out rare unexplored areas of the world.

“There are more so-called ‘un-contacted people’ living in West Papua than in any other region on earth,” said Mr Trembath.

“It really is one of the few remaining wilderness areas on the planet, making an adventure-cruise to this area a truly remarkable and even life-changing experience,” he said.

“This cruise, onboard our award winning adventure cruise ship the True North, will show our guests a way of life that has been unchallenged by the 21st century.”

“This could well be the most stunning region that the True North has ever visited.”

The 12-night West Papua Discoverer Cruise explores the south coast of West Papua and features stunning natural landscapes including towering jungles, Amazonian rivers, Jurassic-like islands and pristine coral gardens. Highlights include:

– A tour and snorkelling at Batanta Island
– Visit the forests of Pulau Mansuar including swimming in lagoons and exploring hidden caves
– Snorkelling and diving the Raja Ampats, an archipelago comprising over 1,500 islands, cays and shoals
– Waigo Island, Fam Island, Waiag Island for snorkelling and swimming
– Swim with manta rays at Aljui Bay
– Kofiau Island – visit the island village and learn about the local way of life.
– Karas Island for swimming, snorkelling and fishing
– Arguni – an area known as Jurassic Park after its rugged cliffs and mountainous forests
– Snorkeling and night diving in Triton Bay where you can swim under a freshwater waterfall
– Crocodile spotting at Etna Bays
– World class fishing
– Presentations and lectures from guest experts on the region’s vast wilderness.

Also on the cruise in 2009 will be renowned marine life expert, Dr Gerry Allen and Dr Mark Erdmann, a senior advisor to Conservation International.

Both have spent many years working and researching in West Papua and their expertise will greatly enhance guest enjoyment and understanding of this virtually unknown land.

Guests will fly out from Darwin on October 19th, 2009 before joining the True North in Sorong, the gateway to the “land of ‘un-contacted’ people.

Prices start from AUD$19,995 per person all inclusive and places are strictly limited. For more information visit www.northstarcruises.com.au or phone 08 9192 1829.

True North Background

The multi-award winning adventure cruise ship, True North, allows discerning guests to experience wilderness in surroundings more akin to one of the world’s most exclusive hotels. Lavish features include:

• A sundeck, forward observation lounge, ship’s lounge, alfresco bar, internet café, plasma screens with interpretive information, lower deck dining room with large panoramic windows, and fine dining.

• All cabins feature enhanced décor, en-suite facilities, in-house entertainment and satellite telephones.

• Multiple expedition boats allow passengers to do “what they want, when they want”.

• The True North is the only Kimberley adventure-cruise ship that sails with its own helicopter.

• The purpose built True North is able to explore the upper reaches of shallow river systems.

• Adventure cruises and expeditions operate along the magnificent coastlines of Australia and the South Pacific.