Categories: History

Papua New Guinea Commemorative Voyage Remembers Australia’s Heroes

Aurora Expeditions has launched a special commemorative voyage to Papua New Guinea next April, to mark the upcoming 70th anniversary of Australia’s involvement in Papua New Guinea during WWII. The voyage will encompass visits to historical sites from Alotau to Rabaul, ending with a special dawn ANZAC day service in Rabaul.

Lost in Paradise – Our fallen heroes will depart Alotau on 14 April 2012 landing at key historic sites such as Samarai Island, Linden Harbour, Jacquinot Bay, Tol and Rabaul. Our onboard historian will interpret the significance of these areas and shine a light on the courage and tragedy of Australia’s unsung heroes– The Lark Force – in the Battle of Rabaul, and the ensuing loss of lives, both troops and civilians, on the Montevideo Maru.

The voyage will also include opportunities to snorkel the pristine reefs, witness traditional sing-sings and simply take in the beauty of this natural paradise.

Aurora Expeditions will also be donating a percentage of the profits made from the commemorative voyage to the Rabaul and Montevideo Maru Society, to assist with the funding for a Rabaul and Montevideo Maru Memorial at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra

For families wishing to explore PNG, Aurora Expeditions has created Islands of Smiles. Exploring the islands and coastline of New Guinea, this voyage will visit Milne Bay and its surrounding islands, Lababia, Tami and Tuam islands, Madang and the mighty Sepik River. Parents and children alike can expect to be greeted with friendly smiles, and a diverse array of vibrant customs through sing sings, complex rituals and spectacular costumes.

Islands of Smiles will depart Alotau on 2 April 2012 and expeditioners will have the opportunity to explore Papua New Guinea, either by snorkelling, swimming, kayaking, bird watching, village walks, or sharing a beach football match with playful locals

Prices for both 13-day expeditions start from AU$5,690 per person quad-share, including all meals on board, shore excursions and lectures. Sea kayaking surcharge is AU$995 and scuba diving stops will be organised on board.

Aurora Expeditions is renowned for travelling to wild and remote areas of the world, with the aim of creating life long ambassadors to the environment. They attract small groups of like-minded, enthusiastic people, passionate about our destinations people, wildlife and history.

For further information contact Aurora Expeditions’ Experts on +612 9252 1033 or 1800 637 688 (Freecall within Australia) or email us here.

Download or order the brochure.

Recent Posts

Adventure to the World’s Wild Places Antarctica 2025-26 Season Unveiled

Welcome to our most comprehensive Antarctic season yet! https://youtu.be/ZPFagBaSf9c?si=lk4LEO8dxfUnpj1Z Brace yourself for the adventure of…

2 days ago

Interview with Chief Ulstein Designer

Have you ever wondered about the process of designing a purpose-built expedition ship? Step into…

1 week ago

Meet the legendary explorer behind our new ship: Sir Douglas Mawson

At Aurora Expeditions, we firmly believe that the ultimate honour to bestow upon someone is…

3 weeks ago

Unlock the Untamed Beauty of Iceland: Selling Iceland Voyages with Aurora Expeditions

As travel advisors, your mission is to curate experiences that leave a lasting imprint on…

1 month ago

Interview with our Founder: Greg Mortimer

Embarking on a journey with Greg Mortimer is like stepping into the footsteps of a modern-day explorer.…

1 month ago

Unveiling Iceland’s Secret Treasures – Beyond the Golden Circle

Iceland, with its otherworldly landscapes and captivating beauty, has always been a dream destination for…

2 months ago