Destination: Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea
Introduction
Milne Bay, at the southeastern tip of the PNG mainland, is one of the Pacific's great cruising destinations — a vast bay studded with hundreds of islands and atolls including the famous D'Entrecasteaux Islands, Trobriand Islands, Woodlark Island, and the Louisiade Archipelago. The bay is protected, the people are extraordinarily friendly, and the diving is world-class. Alotau is the provincial capital and main Port of Entry.
GPS Coordinates
10° 19' 0.120"S 150° 28' 0.120"E
10 19 0.120S 150 28 0.120E
Protected Anchorages
Alotau Harbour is the main anchorage and Port of Entry, in 8–15 m off the town. The bay is well-sheltered and offers good holding throughout. The D'Entrecasteaux Islands (Normanby, Fergusson, Goodenough) have numerous anchorages — Dobu Island, Esa'ala Bay, and the caldera anchorage inside Fergusson Island's volcanic hot springs are outstanding. The Amphlett Islands north of Normanby are beautiful and rarely visited.
Customs Protocols for Visiting Yachts
Alotau is a Port of Entry for PNG. Customs and Immigration are at the main wharf. The cruising permit for Milne Bay Province is available here and allows exploration of the extensive island groups.
Yacht Clubs and Marinas in the Vicinity
- Alotau International Hotel and Leisure Centre is the main facility for visiting sailors, with basic fuel and water at the waterfront.
- The Kitatana Guest House is yacht-friendly. PNG Dive Adventures operates from the area.
Renowned Attractions
- Kiriwina (Trobriand Islands) — famous 'Islands of Love', known for their unique matrilineal society, yam culture, and the Milamala festival
- Fergusson Island volcanic hot springs — soak in natural thermal pools accessible by dinghy
- WWII Milne Bay battlefield sites — the first Allied land victory over Japanese forces in WWII
- Woodlark Island — one of the most remote and least visited islands in PNG, with outstanding reefs
- Traditional Kula Ring exchange — the ancient ceremonial exchange network connecting island communities
Currency and Exchange Rate
Currency: Papua New Guinea Kina
Exchange Rate to USD
Nearby Yachting Destinations
Summary
Milne Bay is one of the Pacific's greatest cruising grounds — a vast, island-studded bay of extraordinary biodiversity, rich indigenous cultures including the famous Trobriand Islanders, and world-class diving that makes it a pinnacle destination for serious Pacific sailors.