Location & Transportation
When you arrive at the Conflict Islands, you’ll be tendered to a brand new jetty that welcomes you to this untouched paradise. I’ve found that the moment you step off the boat, you’re greeted by a dazzling bright blue lagoon and a cluster of 21 tropical islands. This cruise destination has been open since 2016, offering visitors access to remote, natural beauty. Fun fact: the islands were named in 1880 by Captain Bower of HMS Conflict.
Sightseeing
The flagship of the islands is the main island, Panasesa. It’s available for private hire and features:
- A resort Club House
- Six beachfront bungalows
- A runway that can handle short-haul flights
On Panasesa, you can enjoy a range of activities such as sport fishing, diving, kayaking, sailing, boating, and close-up encounters with the island’s natural beauty. One stop I always make is the turtle hatchery run by the Conflict Islands Conservation Initiative near the pier — you can learn about the effort to protect endangered green and hawksbill turtles, and if you time it right, see the hatchlings up close.
Tours & Excursions
There’s so much to explore in these pristine waters:
- Take a kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding tour through the clear lagoon.
- Enjoy snorkeling trips via glass bottom boat or outrigger canoe tours – the underwater world here is incredible.
- Discover marine biodiversity up close; with a third of the world’s species of marine fish, you might see everything from tiny ghost pipe fish to majestic manta rays.
- Don’t miss a dive near Irai Island, which is known for having the second best coral quality in the world and the most species logged in a single dive – a true diver’s dream!
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
Here on the islands, traditional cash transactions take a backseat. You’ll use vouchers for most purchases. They come in handy for equipment hire, souvenirs, and other island needs. Vouchers are available in three denominations: $A25, $A50, and $A100. You can purchase them either at a discount on the ship or at two specific points on the island.
Dining
Dining in this remote paradise is refreshingly simple. Local eateries and the resort serve food and drinks exclusively through the voucher system mentioned above. Enjoy fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local specialties in a relaxed, laid-back island atmosphere that makes every meal feel like a mini celebration of island life.
Nearby Lodging
If you’d like to extend your stay after disembarking from your cruise, various lodging options are available on Panasesa. The beachfront bungalows offer a cozy retreat and a true immersive experience of island living.
Culture & Local Events
The Conflict Islands have a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with a mix of local languages—English, Tok Pisin, and Hiri Motu—adding to its unique cultural tapestry. A few points to note:
- Although the official currency of Papua New Guinea is the Australian Dollar (AUD), on the islands most transactions for food, drinks, and equipment hire are done via vouchers.
- Visitors will notice a laid-back local vibe. Because tourism here is relatively new, community-driven events and gatherings might pop up unexpectedly, so it’s worth asking local guides about any ongoing festivities.
- The islands emphasize environmental conservation, with efforts underway to protect the diverse marine and terrestrial ecosystems. This commitment to nature is evident in the respectful and sustainable practices encouraged throughout the local community.
Safety & Awareness
While the islands offer endless opportunities for adventure, always play it safe:
- Follow all safety instructions during water activities — always wear your life jacket and heed your guide’s advice.
- Remember, due to its remote location, medical facilities are limited. It’s smart to plan your activities with safety in mind and inform someone on board of your excursion plans.