Cheap diving options for PNG?

[outpost31]

Hi all,

I'm looking to do my first (of many) PNG trip this year, end of march/beginning of april, single diver, want to see both big stuff and little critters, 7-10 days (probably 7 as £ is tight), either land based or liveaboard (probably liveaboard as i'll get more dives), thinking of going to Milne bay. Money is tight, can only afford about £1300/US$2000!

Does anyone know of any deals that would suit me and my meager budget? Is there a cheaper place in PNG to start with than Milne bay? Can anyone recommend a travel agency that offers good deals?

Or am I just being wildly optimistic?
Thanks for your help!

Chris

 

[ncchuck]

I'm not sure what is cost to fly from the UK to PNG but it's well over $2000 from the east coast of the US. I think it may be the most expensive diving destination as far as getting there is concerned. I highly doubt you'll find room, food, diving and transportation for anything close to your budget. I hope someone else chimes in however and proves me wrong. There are some great live aboard bargains over there these days but getting there is the problem.

 

[Where2Next]

If this amount does not include your airfare, I would check with Peter Hughes. They have huge sales going on with their Star Dancer Liveaboard in PNG right now. The promotional email I received is at the office - but I thought it was $2100 for 8 nights (for the next couple months). Of course a tip on top of that should be factored in.

Worth looking into... Peter Hughes Diving - Live-Aboard Excellence to World Class Dive Destinations - So I just looked at the website and the specials they show are higher than what I received - maybe you should drop them a line. Or sign up for their emails and see what you get. Sorry I don't have the exact info in front of me - I will on Monday.

 

[outpost31]

Thanks for the replies. Sorry I should have said, I'll be flying in from Brisbane not the UK, my budget is for diving, accom, food and flights from Bris. Thanks Where2Next, I'll have a butchers at Peter hughes.

 

[marinediva]

hI Outpost,
Flights from Brisbane can be really cheap, I have flown Brisbane/Port Morseby for less than $500 return. check out Air Nuigini or PNG airlines. Inregards to places other than Milne Bay,can suggest Madang for some fine diving.
Madang Resort Papua New Guinea - Hotel This resort has a dive shop and offers deals on accommodation and package dives.

I don't feel $2000 will do it, more like $3000.
Getting onto a package with someone is a really good option.
East Coast Diver LLC Home These guys have a tour going in September which sounds great and is good value.

Papua New Guinea - Dive Papua New Guinea (PNG) - Scuba Dive PNG, Dive Adventures this is another website you may wish to have a look at.

 

[outpost31]

I think PNG will too expensive, I'm going to look at Bali instead.
Thank you everyone for your help.