We are finally leaving NZ this May and would like to explore Vanuatu and the Solomons before continuing west. Is it reasonable to go across the north side of PNG from the Solomons and then head south staying east of Ceram and continuing down to Kupang in Timor and then Bali. I heard you may be able to check in to Indonesia in Jayapura. Any suggestions on safety issues, timing and weather would be most appreciated.

Why north of PNG? The direct route to Kupang is through the Torres Strait, possibly Darwin, and on to Timor. Yes, you can check-in at Jayapura, and also stop in some of the outer Indon islands. In fact, I did sail that area in 1980, went through Torres then turned north to Tanimbar. We saw a lot en route.

Jimmy Cornell.