Explore the eerie, ash-blanketed ruins of Rabaul — a once-thriving colonial town buried by the 1994 volcanic eruption — and descend into the vast network of Japanese-built WWII tunnels beneath the caldera. History and geology collide in the most dramatic setting imaginable.
What to expect
Your private guide meets you dockside in Kokopo and drives through coconut plantations dusted in grey volcanic ash toward the Rabaul caldera. You descend into hand-dug Japanese tunnel complexes large enough to shelter warships, then visit the Rabaul WWII Museum with its remarkable collection of Imperial Japanese artefacts. The active Tavurvur volcano provides a smouldering backdrop throughout. A final stop at the Kokopo Cultural Centre reveals pre-war Tolai ceremonial masks and traditional currency.
Good to know
Most applicable for ships calling at Rabaul or Kokopo in East New Britain Province. Confirm the volcano's activity status before departure — the observatory provides daily updates. Wear closed-toe shoes for the tunnels; bring a torch/flashlight. All-aboard times are typically respected with a private vehicle.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Papua — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.