The "MV SEPIK SPIRIT", constructed in 1989, is built to the specifications to suit the demands
of a shallow draft expeditionary vessel for navigating inland waterways. Its shallow draft
allows passage into remote corners of the Sepik Region and areas not otherwise accessible to
larger vessels. The "SEPIK SPIRIT" complies with the most rigid of safety standards including
both the American Bureau of Shipping and Papua New Guinea safety regulations.
Refurbished in early-2006 to ensure that the SEPIK SPIRIT meets the expectations of the
modern traveller. The refurbishment includes new interior and improved noise insulation.
The SEPIK SPIRIT accommodates 18 passengers in 9 twin bedrooms each with private bathroom.
Onboard facilities include a dining room, lounge, bar, video and covered upper observatory
deck. The entire vessel is air-conditioned. Because the SEPIK SPIRIT is custom designed for
the rigors of operating in this unique environment, she is the ideal size for exploration.
This, combined with small passenger numbers allows the traveller an intimate experience to
little visited areas.
Day trips from the Sepik Spirit are done in an 18-seater riverboat, also custom designed
for the operation. Their open-air design gives the traveller a sense of place, a feeling
for the river and its people.
Areas that the SEPIK SPIRIT and her guests may visit are the Karawari River, Blackwater
Lakes, Chambri Lakes, the Middle Sepik and the Upper Sepik. The river banks where the
vessel operates are dotted with many large traditional villages each with its own unique
"haus Tambaran" or spirit house decorated with ancestral figures, carvings, massive garamut
drums and secretive ritual flutes. The Sepik is a gallery of tribal art, each village boasts
a unique style, and every villager is an artisan. Mingle with the friendly people and
experience a culture that encounters very few outsiders annually. Long after you have
left the lush jungle, raucous birds, spirit houses and carvings, and endless waterways,
the mysticism of the Sepik will remain unforgettably etched in your memory.
Please E-Mail for a quotation.
Please note that private touring and transfers are not available on the MV Sepik Spirit.
The cruise commencing on a Monday from Timbunke necessitates
an overnight at KARAWARI LODGE on Thursday to catch the air
transfer flight on Friday to either Mount Hagen or AMBUA LODGE
at Tari. The cost of the night at Karawari is additional.
Please note that MV Sepik Spirit departure and termination points are subject to change
without notice.
AIR TRANSFER COST:
To or from Mount Hagen, Ambua or Tari:-
2009 -- US$375.00 one way
2010 -- US$TBA one way.
To book the Sepik Spirit, please email
Trans Niugini Tours.
