Papua New Guinea : Profile

Facts

One of the most fascinating countries in the world, Papua New Guinea is definitely best visited by cruising boat. This not only gives one the opportunity to catch a glimpse of life in a society still following ancient ways, but also avoids the lawlessness that has affected the large towns of this rich, but poorly managed, country. Outside of the main centres life is little changed and by using common sense one should be able to avoid the few hot spots of trouble.
One such place is Bougainville Island, which was taken over by local rebels, closing the vast copper mine and forcing the Papua New Guinea Security forces and police to withdraw. Peace has now been restored to the island, but the situation is still troubled and cruising yachts are recommended to stay away.
The best way to find out about changing conditions is to listen to the news, both Radio Australia and Radio New Zealand having good Overseas Services for the Pacific area, or by contacting one's high commission or embassy in Port Moresby, who are usually well informed.
Port Moresby and Lae have been particularly affected by the surge in criminality; however, the area around the yacht club in Port Moresby is relatively trouble-free. The Royal Papua Yacht Club has its own marina and welcomes visiting yachts. There are a large number of locally owned yachts in Port Moresby, where facilities are generally good.
Rabaul, on New Britain Island, was always a popular spot among cruising yachts, many of whom used to spend the cyclone season in its landlocked harbour, which is the crater of a volcano. In recent years the town has suffered two destructive volcanic eruptions and the latest situation should be checked beforehand. Much of the reconstruction has been completed, but it is doubtful that Rabaul will ever regain its former popularity among cruising sailors.
Madang on the northern coast of New Guinea also has a well-protected harbour in an area scattered with islands, reefs and lagoons. It has always been a popular stop, especially for those yachts taking the route north of New Guinea towards Indonesia, but it is now reported to have increasing problems similar to those afflicting Lae and Port Moresby.
The best cruising in Papua New Guinea is found among the many islands to the east of the main island, where islanders still live a peaceful life and sail large traditional canoes for fishing and trading voyages. A cruise in Papua New Guinean waters has been for many people the highlight of their world cruise, and if one chooses one's itinerary carefully it is a country well worth visiting. Recent reports do indicate though that theft from yachts is increasingly a risk, and local knowledge and basic safety precautions are necessary.
Facilities in the smaller towns and outer islands are often basic. There are small boatyards with their own slipways dotted about the country, so one is never too far away should the need arise for some emergency repair. However, all essential spares should be carried on board and one should also provision the boat in one of the major centres before sailing to the islands, where little except a few locally grown vegetables is available.

The climate is tropical. From December to March is the north-west monsoon, while the south-east monsoon is from May to December. Only the south-east of the country is affected by tropical cyclones, whose season is from December until March.

Main Ports

Alotau * , Daru * , Kavieng * , Kieta * , Kimbe * , Lae * , Lihir Island (New Ireland) * , Lorengau * , Madang * , Misima Island , Oro Bay * , Port Moresby * , Rabaul * , Samarai * , Vanimo * , Wewak *