Welcome to the start of your Tigak Sea Kayaking Adventure
“Love many, trust few, but always paddle your own canoe.” ― Proverb
Saying you are going to one of the remotest parts of one of the remotest countries on the planet, really does describe how you feel when paddling through the Tigak Sea.
Life is inextricably linked to the sea. Outrigger canoes plow these waters carrying palm fronds from one island to the next, trading perhaps cloth or vegetables not found anywhere else.
Children with pearly white teeth and sun-bleached afros, greet you on every island. Islands are idyllically palm-fringed, surrounded by crystal clear waters, a plethora of fish species and untouched reefs.
This small chain of islands tails off the end of New Ireland, leading you to WWII wrecks, fishermen who catch sharks with their bare hands, and outlandish wooden masks used during burial rites.
This is the Tigak Sea and you will soon be paddling your kayak through this most unfamiliar place. Get ready for an adventure.
Greetings from PNG
An American once found Nusakelo Island (in the Tigak Sea) on Google Maps and tried to buy the island for $70,000USD! The locals politely declined the offer.
“To be able to bring well known Australians through the villages along the Kokoda Track brought a lot of happiness to me and my family” – Terrance David, Kokoda local & our PNG Operations Manager
In the true Kokoda Tradition, our PNG treks are a collaboration of both our Australian and local teams. Like our forefathers, we rely on the service and hospitality afforded to us by the people of the Kokoda Track. Just like their fathers before them, the people of the Kokoda Track look after us as we cross the Owen Stanley Ranges.
The onus now rests on you and I (all of us) to ensure that we continue to be grateful and respectful guests, to honour the relationships forged in generations past.
Guest Portal
You can update all your personal information directly in our Guest’s Portal. There, you can add your Insurance, Flight Details, and anything else we need for the trip. When you first click on the link you will be asked to reset your password. Please use the same email address you used for your booking.
The world’s only known (living) poisonous bird, the Hooded Pitohui is native to Papua New Guinea (don't worry, we make sure it stays off of your camp menu... unless your group votes otherwise)!
Your Journey
TRAINING
PNG has only been an independent nation since 1975. Prior to this it was subjected to German, British and Australian rule or administration.
As you’re by now hopefully aware, you don’t need to be an Ultra Marathon paddler to relish this experience.
We’d suggest that the higher your level of fitness, the greater enjoyment you’ll find, and the ease with which you’ll get through each day’s trek.
For anybody that does find the going tough, our guides are super experienced at coaching and nurturing paddlers through their tough times.
It’s your trip, and we want you to do it your way to gain the most enjoyment!
If you are a little unsure, or just want to discuss your own level of fitness with someone, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
A DAY PADDLING THE TIGAK SEA
You will first hear the water lapping on the shoreline, well before the light has even started to illuminate the horizon. The air is fresh. You roll over, hoping to get some more sleep, but you can’t, you have been in bed for 9 hours (that never happens at home).
You unzip the tent, silhouetted canoes sway on the flattest body of water you have ever seen. As the light brightens, the reflection is a perfect copy of the heavens.
You can hear the campfire cracking in a small hut; breakfast. A selection of fruits and cereals soon arrives at our makeshift table and the all-important tea and coffee are not far behind. By 8 am we are already on the water paddling to our first destination of the day.
Paddling is usually a fairly relaxed affair. The sea is often calm, however, small squalls can come to spoil the day. At times, we may decide to paddle out into more open water. Tides ebb and flow quite dramatically and at points exposed coral and sand bars determine when and where we paddle.
Lunch is often around midday, with either a secluded private setting or a short walk through a village, maybe showing off their orchids or the remanence of a downed Japanese fighter.
Snorkeling is always on the cards and we can stop pretty much anywhere there is a good reef. It’s a simple matter of getting the kayaks into the beach, popping our masks and flippers on, and heading out to an aquatic wonderland (or wondersea)!
The afternoon paddle can get a little more challenging as winds and seas begin to become more unsettled with rising temperatures. We are usually at camp by around 4 pm, setting up tents, going for a swim, and getting ready for another delicious meal under an incredible star-filled sky.
GETTING THERE AND AWAY
Port Moresby's Jacksons International Airport was named after the late RAAF servant John F. Jackson, a Squadron Leader and flying ace, killed in action during April 1942.
ARRIVAL IN PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Upon your arrival, please go through to collect checked luggage and security, then proceed out the EXIT door. Outside you will see many people waiting for arriving passengers. Our operations staff will be there wearing a No Roads Expeditions Tshirt. Please go direct to him/her and introduce yourself. You will be taken straight to your hotel, issued rooms, time for Expedition Briefing etc.
Please do let us know if there are any last-minute changes to your arrival time!
Regardless of where you’re flying from (departing Australia), services will almost always require a transit via Brisbane, or on occasion Cairns.
If there’s anything specific you feel we need to know before we get flights costed for you, don’t hesitate to reach out to us via info@noroads.com.au
Our historical connection to the country is apparent as soon as you touch down!
DOMESTIC FLIGHTS TO KAVIENG
Flights to Kavieng operate every day with both a morning and an afternoon flight. The flight usually takes about 1.5 hours. A 15 kg luggage limit also applies.
We recommend you bring a fresh set of clothes to leave in Port Moresby during the expedition. This way you will have a clean set of clothes to change into when you return from New Ireland.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
In 1616 the Dutch sailors Jacob Le Maire and Willem Schouten were the first Europeans to set foot on what is now known as New Ireland.
Visa Information
PNG Tourist Visa:
Australian Passport Holders wishing to visit PNG for tourism purposes are able to obtain a tourist Easy Visitor Permit (Electronic Visa) for their visit https://evisa.ica.gov.pg/evisa/account/apply. This tourist visa will be valid for 30 days only (unless a longer period is selected).
Applicants must have the following to obtain the visa:
· Australian passport valid for more than 6 months (a copy of the main page, top to bottom)
· Show evidence of funds (bank statement or evidence of bank account balance)
· A completed copy of the Cover Letter (please make sure you enter the dates applicable to your trip)
NOTE: The PNG bureaucratic process can be VERY slow at times. To avoid stress, please start your Visa application process ASAP (ideally months before departure).
In early February 2020, PNG consulate advised that the Visa on Arrival service has been rescinded so we are no longer recommending it as an option.
Insurance
Emergency Medical Evacuation Insurance is a requirement for all guests travelling on our expeditions. Once you have booked on an expedition we suggest booking your travel insurance as soon as possible to protect your investment. Trip cancellation insurance will reimburse you for any non-recoverable air or land expenses should you have to cancel your trip due to personal or family illness or leave the expedition early due to other reasons. For our Australian guests, we are offering policies from NIB Travel for adequate cover, and you can contact our office direct, via phone or email, to obtain an insurance quote from us.
For guests travelling with us from outside Australia, please check Travel Insurance options within your Country.
If you should receive an injury 12 months prior to your travel date, you must contact the Insurance Company with details to ensure you are covered for this injury whilst travelling. Should you not do this and require medical assistance for this injury whilst travelling you may not be covered by the insurance company.
In the event that an aircraft evacuation is required, No Roads Expeditions will undertake to arrange the evacuation on the condition that the expenses are reimbursed by the passenger before departing the Country.
Note: Accidents caused by the inappropriate consumption of alcohol or drugs may void your travel insurance.
Get a Quote
While we don’t anticipate any uninvited medical disruptions during your trek, No Roads wants to keep your mind at ease and help you get adequate assistance and cover for your well-earned time away. It is extremely important that we ensure you’re covered during your great alpine experience.
We are able to provide you with Travel Insurance for your trip, allowing you to tick this off your ‘To-Do Lis”t as soon as possible. (We strongly recommend that you take out baggage loss and accident insurance)!
Already have a trusted insurance provider?
That’s no problem at all, our primary concern is that you have adequate cover.
Got a Pre-Existing Condition?
Simply call our Insurance Team and quote the reference number we provide you with and they’ll complete an assessment on your behalf. In many cases, there is no additional premium that needs to be paid! Many common conditions are also automatically covered.
In the event that an aircraft evacuation is required, No Roads Expeditions will undertake to arrange the evacuation on the condition that the expenses are reimbursed by the passenger before departing the Country.
Again, if you’ve any questions, don’t hesitate to ask info@noroads.com.au.
Things to Remember with Insurance
A Credit Card/Travel Card that can be used internationally. Often, any medical centre or hospital will require payment sooner than some insurance companies will have approved payment (meaning you need to be able to pay them, then seek reimbursement from your insurer).
The international emergency contact number for your insurance company. We will initiate emergency procedures for you, however, it is a far easier process for you to coordinate matters with the insurance company directly (most things we are unable to finalise on your behalf).
Documents to keep on your person, or obtain in event of emergency:
A copy of your flight itinerary with information including – Ticket Number, Airline Reference Number (PNR), Agency Flight Reference Number (if purchased via a travel agency/3rd party as well as contact information for them)
A copy of a Medical report (if you required treatment) and keep copies of all receipts for anything that you have been required to pay.
Remember t
o travel with a copy of your policy or at least your policy number and provider
IMMUNIZATION
In order to enter Papua New Guinea, all travellers must follow the Health Protocol Requirements.
These requirements are fluid and are changing according to international COVID 19 developments. Please click here for more information about arrival requirements in Port Moresby.
COVID 19 – As part of the PNG entry requirements proof of a full COVID 19 vaccination status has to be provided when entering the country.
No further vaccinations are required for entry to PNG, however, we suggest that you consult your doctor to confirm if any current vaccinations or treatments are required for the area you are travelling to. You should consider cholera, typhoid, and hepatitis vaccinations and make sure your tetanus cover is up to date, however, this should all be discussed with your medical physician.
Plan ahead for getting your vaccinations (seriously, vaccinations are one thing that should NEVER be left until the last minute when TIME can truly be your enemy). Some of them require an initial shot followed by a booster, while some vaccinations should not be given together. This also applies to some malaria prophylactics, which have to be begun at least a week before you leave home.
Typhoid: Recommended for Papua New Guinea. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
Hepatitis A: Recommended for Papua New Guinea. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
Cholera: Recommended for Papua New Guinea. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
Tuberculosis: Recommended for Papua New Guinea. Ideally 3 months before travel.
Hepatitis B: Recommended for Papua New Guinea. Ideally 2 months before travel.
Yellow fever: Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an area with a risk of yellow fever transmission for Papua New Guinea. Ideally 10 days before travel.
Japanese B encephalitis: Recommended for Papua New Guinea. Ideally 1 month before travel.
Malaria: Consider this seriously.
Polio: Recommend a Polio booster. Ideally 4-6 weeks before travel.
Accommodation
The province of New Ireland was originally known by Europeans as Neu-Mecklenburg when it was first colonised by the German Empire in 1886.
HOTEL ACCOMMODATION IN PORT MORESBY
Hotel accommodation details : The Hilton Port Moresby Hotel & Residences, Wards Rd, Port Moresby National Capital District Ph: +675 7901 8000
ON NUSA ISLAND AND BEYOND
Our accommodation in New Ireland on the first and last night is at the Nusa Island Resort. This is a Robinson Crusoe-style resort with well-appointed thatched huts with private facilities. They provide us with breakfast and dinner during both stays. This is a great place to unwind and relax.
Out on the islands we will use a mix of tents and thatched huts provided by the local village. Facilities are basic but comfortable.
The island of New Guinea is home to the third largest rainforest in the world, behind only the the Amazon and the Congo!
Getting Outfitted
Personal Gear
There really isn’t much to bring on our Kayaking Expeditions, but what you do bring should be packed into a dry bag so that the contents do not get wet.
- Passport
- Airline tickets (international & domestic)
- Insurance policy – 2 copies (1 for you and 1 for our Guide)
- Personal toiletries – Toothbrush and paste, sports deodorant, lip balm, etc.
- 3 T-shirts
- 1 long sleeve cotton t-shirt (for sleeping in)
- 4 pair underwear
- Sea-kayaking clothing (shorts and shirts)
- Light hiking boots or firm runners
- Pair of thongs/sandals to wear around camp and in villages
- 1 pair of cotton/wool blend hiking socks
- Hard-soled wetsuit booties or sandals for sea-kayaking. Keen Sandals or Crocs are good.
- Hat with a wide brim to keep the sun off your face
- Waterproof torch or headlamp with spare batteries
- Rain poncho (something lightweight)
- Quick-dry sports towel/chamois
- Two rolls of your favorite toilet paper
- A one-litre water bottle to carry with you
- Hydralyte or other Electrolyte replacement tablets (a must)
- Personal first aid kit. (see Medicines and First Aid section below)
- Snacks such as barley sugar, mentos, chocolate, muesli bars etc.
- Bathers
- Sleeping mat (self inflating)
- Sunscreen
- Tropical strength insect repellant
- Sunglasses (with retaining cord) and a spare set just in case
- A book or something to write in
- Camera, GoPro, etc
- 1 Dry Bag approx 25 litres each. These need to be fully waterproof such as Liquidlife bags.
- Sarong for just about anything
- Personal flippers and mask.
- Mosquito net and anchor points (compulsory)
- Spare set of clean clothes to leave back at Nusa Island Retreat for your return.
*If you have something you are particularly prone to, ear infections or sinus problems, please ensure you bring any necessary medications with you.
Personal First Aid Kit
Your personal First Aid kit will contain band-aids, blister dressings, topical cream for bites and grazes, antibiotic cream for cuts and scratches, paracetamol, Deep Heat or another muscle liniment, and the all-important insect repellent. We also recommend bringing your personal “Reef Rash Kit”. We recommend if you are traveling in a group that you share a First Aid Kit. Please note that a first aid kit will be carried by your Guide.
Sleeping Gear
No Roads will provide a single person tent for each paddler. You will need to bring a self-inflating mat and a sarong as a sheet. Otherwise, usage of simple huts along the way or comfortable rooms such as Tsoilik will be used.
Land Wear
We will be doing a little bit of trekking so just a lightweight runner will be sufficient.
Note: If you have any questions regarding the above list or any other items that you want to ask about please do not hesitate to contact us. We can provide you with additional information at any time.
Supplied Equipment
- Two-person safari style tent
- Sea kayak, paddle and safety equipment including PFD (personal flotation device)
- Support boat for meals, accommodation (1 night), and store equipment
- All eating and drinking equipment
Our friends, your support
Most of our PNG team come from the local villages that dot the islands.
Without our locally based team, our efforts to deliver for you the most immersive, enjoyable, challenging and rewarding experience quite simply, would not be possible.
The more people we are able to send out on the track, the more meaningful we can make our impact on the local people of the Kokoda Track through greater opportunities to aid in the implementation of improvement projects and chances to offer ongoing employment.
You can read more about our team on the ground here.
TIPPING
If you would like to show your appreciation to the local team you may show it by providing a tip. A usual tip is approximately 90 Kina or $45, though this is at your discretion.
We've Got You Covered
GENERAL TRAVEL ADVICE
All No Roads staff and teams consider guest safety and wellbeing an absolute priority and always follow the travel advice and guidelines of the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Smartraveller. To further maintain the safety of our travelers, we promote good personal and hand hygiene along with adherence to safe food preparation practices.
COVID 19
Unfortunately, COVID is the “New Normal” and we all have to follow certain guidelines to ensure the safety of ourselves, our fellow guests, our team, and the local communities.
SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
We are able to cater to all common special dietary requirements.
Please advise us prior to your departure if you have any food allergies we should be aware of.
The No Roads team will do everything it can to support any guests with allergies that might require a special diet, by informing all in-country personnel and ensuring reasonable provisions are made for all meals. We do, however, suggest and encourage all affected guests to assist us by providing this information while travelling in situations or instances where it may be required.
WATER
Water is available throughout the trip. Our team will provide you with fresh drinkable water throughout.
MEDICINES AND FIRST AID
All paddlers are recommended to carry a personal first aid kit with medicines for common ailments, cuts and bruises, pain killers, etc. Anyone using any prescription medicines regularly should carry a supply for the whole duration of their expedition. Please consult your doctor and include items and medicines that may be required for you or for the area you are travelling in. No Roads does not supply any medicines and takes no legal responsibility for any medical treatment or professional medical support to our clients.
We will do everything we can to support guests that have disclosed a medical condition, allergy, or anaphylaxis, by informing all in-country personnel and ensuring reasonable provisions are made.
We do, however, suggest and encourage all guests in this situation to assist us by reconfirming this information in situations or instances where it may be required to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable adventure experience.
*If you have something you are particularly prone to such as ear infections, sinus problems or mild asthma bring what you need with you.
The No Roads Guide will be carrying an extensive Wilderness First Aid Kit.
Your personal first aid kit should contain:
Band-aids, Paracetamol, Deep Heat or other muscle liniment, Blister pads, Crepe bandages, Antibiotic cream for cuts and scratches, ‘Imodium’ tablets, Strapping tape (for knees and ankles), Anti chaffing cream e.g. Pawpaw cream, Foot powder, Waterless hand disinfectant, Anti-malarial drugs (see your doctor), Anti-inflammatory cream, Broad-spectrum antibiotic tablets, Anti-Nausea Tablets.
WOMEN’S HEALTH
On top of the normal health considerations, women are advised to bring a tube of Canesten and an applicator. The Canesten is used for the treatment of thrush (which can be very painful if left untreated) and can be applied to both internal and external thrush.
We also recommend that women bring a sarong to wrap around their bathing suits whilst bathing to respect the countries cultural sensitivities.
Physical Preparation
Over the course of 2019, our guides donated their time and expertise to conduct over a dozen training walks available to ANYONE (yes, open to the public) across such beautiful locations as the Blue Mountains west of Sydney, to the 1000 Steps in Melbourne's outer east!
FITNESS
Training like it is the real deal!
You know what they say (whoever ‘they’ are):
“Failing to prepare is preparing to fail”
All participants must make an effort to get in good physical condition for the trip they have signed up for, obviously the fitter you are the more enjoyable you will find this expedition. Every participant should have a health check with a medical physician to ensure that they are in good physical health prior to embarking on their trip. No Roads is not a medical adviser and we take no legal responsibility for medical or other emergencies that may arise on the course of a trek. As the service provider and hosts, we will take all necessary steps needed to evacuate injured or ill clients on the understanding that all costs involved will be paid to us before leaving the country (see Insurance).
While not everyone has access to a kayak, we do suggest that you try one so that you understand what is involved with paddling. If you own or have access to a stand-up paddleboard try and fit this into your regular training regime. A rowing machine is also excellent training for these types of adventures.
Lower back, upper body, and core strength training are all also very important when kayaking, so try and incorporate some training in these areas. For those without access to gyms, push-ups, sit-ups, and pull-ups are excellent and all can be done at home or when you are out walking/jogging. Please consult a professional trainer for advice on training if you are unsure or starting a fitness program for the first time.
Due to safety regulations, our kayaks can hold a maximum capacity of 100kg for a single kayak and 200kg for a double kayak. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this please contact our office to discuss this further. We hope this helps you all enjoy your time on expedition.
Pre-Expedition Training
No Roads Expeditions advises all participants that they should kayak as much as possible before the expedition. If you are a novice at sea kayaking, do not worry.
We suggest you find a local kayak outfitter that can rent craft on a daily basis, or purchase a simple craft so that you can build the appropriate muscles for the expedition.
We've Been We Know
The local Tigak language is spoken throughout the Kavieng province by around 5,000-6,000 people
It’s time for a confession.
We weren’t always this confident at what we do!
This was never through a lack of trying, but the reality is after 20 years sending people to remote parts of the world, we’ve picked up a thing or two…
TIPPING
If you would like to show your appreciation to the local team you may show it by providing a tip. A usual tip is approximately 80 Kina or $35 though this is at your discretion.
The local team also appreciates gifts. If you like you can give them shoes and clothing at the end of the expedition.
POWER IN PNG
PNG has the same power plugs as Australia so you do not need to purchase an adapter for your electronic items.
MONEY
The currency in PNG is the Kina (K). Exchange rates vary depending on the strength of the US dollar. Cash and Australian Dollars are readily accepted and can be exchanged for Kina at the airport, hotels or banks in any major city.
The best place to exchange $Aus for Kina is at the Port Moresby airport. We do however recommend you exchange some money prior to departing Australia, approximately $100 to take into PNG. You will require to budget spending money for:
1) First night and last night dinners. $60
2) Personal items such as laundry, phone calls, snacks, etc.
3) Alcoholic/bottled beverages and drinks including bottled water.
4) Tips. All tipping is at your discretion. (approx $35)
5) Souvenirs and handicrafts.
CREDIT CARDS
Credit cards such as American Express, Visa and MasterCard are accepted in many hotels, shops and restaurants in major towns and cities. Bankcard is not accepted in PNG. ATM,s are also available to access in major hotels, banks and major cities. For spending money while on expedition it is best to have money in local currency (K).
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
PNG is a diverse country, where traditional animistic beliefs colliding head on with religion (missionaries have had a strong influence, and as such, Seventh Day Adventism is strong).
This leads to largely conservative beliefs, so please be mindful of this.
PHOTOGRAPHY
PNG affords incredible opportunities for photography. Ensure that you are familiar with your camera well before your adventure, and that your camera battery is strong (and bring a spare).
When taking photographs of local people, please ask their permission first and respect their wishes. This is normal courtesy. All you need to do is hold up your camera and wait for a response.
GIFTS FOR LOCALS
Many of our kayakers want to give to local communities they pass through. We encourage this and recommend either sports balls such as tennis, soccer, rugby or Australian Rules footballs.
Alternatively, educational equipment such as pencils, pencil sharpeners, paper, chalk and small chalk boards are greatly appreciated. As these things can weigh a fair bit, don’t over do it or you may not get to the villages to hand them out.
We discourage the handing out of balloons and the like as well as lollies. There really are no dental facilities for the villagers along the way.
Know The Lingo
The languages of Papua New Guinea are extremely diverse. Over five and a half million people speak around seven hundred languages!
A little effort to speak like a local can be a great icebreaker (as you stumble over the few words you remember) and is always appreciated by those whose homeland you are visiting.
SOME USEFUL (AND INTERESTING) PIDGIN ENGLISH
* bagarap(im) – broken, to break down (from “bugger up”) – very widely used in Papua New Guinea
* bagarap olgeta – completely broken
* balus – airplane
* bikpela – big
* haus – house
* haus meri – female domestic servant
* haus moni – bank
* haus sik – hospital
* sit haus – toilet
* haus tambaran – traditional Sepik-region house with artifacts of ancestors or for honoring ancestors; tambaran means “ancestor spirit” or “ghost”
* hukim – to catch fish (from “hook”)
* kaikai – food, eat
* kamap – arrive, become (from “come up”)
* kisim – get
* mangi – young man (from “monkey”)
* maski – it doesn’t matter, don’t worry about it
* manmeri – people
* meri – woman (from the English name “Mary”)
* olgeta – all (from “all together”)
* pikinini – child (from Pacific Pidgin English, but ultimately from Portuguese influenced Lingua franca, cf, pickaninny)
* Papa God – God
* raus(im) – get out (from German “raus”)
* sapos – if (from “suppose”)
* save – know, to do habitually (from Pacific Pidgin English, but ultimately from Portuguese influenced Lingua franca, cf. “savvy”)
* solwara – ocean (from “salt water”)
* stap – be, stay (from “stop”)
* slip – sleep, live
* tasol – only (from “that’s all”)
Give Us A Shout
NO ROADS EXPEDITIONS
Office: (03) 95988581
24 hrs Access:
Irene Miller + 61 430 705 222
Peter Miller + 61 425 726 623
Email: info@noroads.com.au
IN COUNTRY
Terence David +675 72669843
Jack Deia +675 70296867
The Hilton +675 7901 8000
Tufi Resort +675 3233462
