PNG Choices

The good news is that there are several excellent choices for diving PNG. The bad news is that they're all expensive. Even the land-based add-ons to the highlands are pricey, but the flip side is that after going, most travelers feel like they got their money's worth -- a trip of a lifetime.

However, before forking over the big bucks for a PNG trip there are a few things to consider. Some non-photographers trapped aboard a boat full of shooters in PNG come away feeling like they were treated as second-class citizens. Photographers love the weird-creature muck dives and are usually content to spend a great deal of time in low vis, low beauty waters. Try to get a good explanation of the diving itinerary before booking, and non-shooters should avoid booking trips with the U/W Photo Club.

Another factor to consider is that live-aboards diving PNG move around with the seasons, and the diving in these different regions varies dramatically, ranging from an emphasis on muck to big creature to W.W.II wrecks. Quiz operators extensively before booking on where the boat will be during the season you plan to travel or, if you can be flexible, plan your trip around the itinerary that best suits your style of diving.

New Guinea Live-aboards

Chertan: 12 passenger, Travel Agent or 011-612- 92676118, e-mail sng@dot.net.au

Febrina: 14 passenger, Travel Agent or 800-932-6237 or 305-669-9391, e-mail dancer@peterhughes.com or direct at walindi@datec.com.pg

Golden Dawn: 10 passenger, Travel Agent or 675 3256500, e-mail dive@mvgoldendawn.com

Paradise Sport: 16 passenger, Travel Agent or 800-952- 4319 or 520-556-9590, e-mail ozdive@aol.com

Star Dancer: 16 passenger, Travel Agent or 800-932-6237 or 305-669-9391, e-mail dancer@peterhughes.com

Tiata: 10 passenger, Travel Agent or fax 011-67-5-300326