Making the most of Alatau
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
On Milne Bay's northern shore, Alotau is the capital of Papua New Guinea's Milne Bay Province.
Set dramatically on the edge of Milne Bay, Alotau is mainly a base for reaching other destinations. Its views, bushwalks and local customs make it worth visiting in its own right, as they do in other Papua New Guinea towns. The active harbour is a short walk from town.
Video overview
Alotau provides access to Milne Bay Province and some of the world's exceptionally remote island communities. Milne Bay is renowned for coral reefs and scuba-diving experiences.
Getting around
Taxis and mini-buses are plentiful for local touring, with drivers described as extremely friendly and honest.
Village excursions run from Alotau to Suau and Savaia, via numerous islands and villages, and continue to Nuakata, Goodenough and many other Milne Bay Province islands.
Nearby places
Developing ecotourism focuses on rainforest, trekking, bird watching, bat caving, fishing, diving, snorkeling, war sites, surfing and cultural attractions. The province's richest marine biodiversity in the world draws so many divers, while orchids, marsupials, birds of paradise, mountains, islands, rainforest, waterfalls, hot springs, skull caves and local history add further interest.
Food and shopping
Alotau has lively markets and a colourful harbour, and is regarded as one of Papua New Guinea's most laid-back, secure and enjoyable towns.