Welcome to the inaugural World War 2 History cruise. Make your own way to the Port of Brisbane to embark the Pacific Dawn. The ship will depart at 4.00pm so aim to be aboard at least two hours prior. This evening you will meet with our historians and the other passengers who are taking part in the history cruise at a cocktail party from 6.00pm – 8.00pm. (L, D)

Our history conference begins today, with two separate sessions (8am-10am and 1pm-3pm). This evening will be at leisure. (B, L, D)

The second day of our history conference, with two separate sessions (8am-10am and 1pm-3pm). This evening will be at leisure. (B, L, D)

Today we are in port from 8.00am – 5.00pm. This is the first of our exclusive shore excursions to discover some of Australia’s key battles in New Guinea. Beginning at the Cross Roads where the John French Victoria Cross action took place and the site of his memorial. We will then continue on to the site of Robinson’s ambush at Cameron Springs. Your historian will bring to life the epic struggle to fight off the Imperial Japanese Naval Forces that were attempting to capture the vital Milne Bay airfields. As we head into the main part of town, we will make a short side trip to Hiwehiwe lookout, a vantage point that allows a magnificent view of the Bay. We continue with a visit to KB Mission and the Turnbull Memorial located on the original No.3 airstrip. Finally, we will hold a commemorative service at the Milne Bay Memorial, remembering all those who served and made the ultimate sacrifice during the campaign. This evening is at leisure. (B, L, D)

Today we are in port from 8.00am – 4.00pm. Here one of the world’s most intact island cultures resides on one the world’s most untouched islands, and you are among the select few who are lucky enough to experience them both. Tonight, join together with the historians and fellow passengers for a group dinner. (B, L, D)

Today we are in port from 8.00am – 6.00pm. This is the second of our exclusive shore excursions to discover some of Australia’s key battles in New Guinea. From the port, a short drive takes us to Kabakaul, the first amphibious landing and military operation of WW1 for the Australian forces. We then continue on to Bita Paka War Cemetery, home to over one thousand graves for Allied and Australian soldiers who died defending Rabaul from the Japanese during WWII, as well as some WW1 burials. Next, we will uncover the Japanese barge tunnels, still containing three barges. This was part of over 300 miles of underground pathways designed to conceal munitions stores, hospitals and more. We will ten go on to view the Lark Force-2/22nd & Montevideo Maru Memorial before visiting the Japanese Admiral Yamamoto’s Bunker. We will then make our way up to Namanula Hill, housing the remains of the old German Governor Haber’s residence. We will be able to see a magnificent view as we look out over the harbour. This evening will be at leisure. (B, L, D)

Today we are in port from approximately 9.00am – 5.00pm. Here one of the world’s most intact island cultures resides on one the world’s most untouched islands. This evening will be at leisure. (B, L, D)

Don’t be fooled by the name, this is paradise in the Coral Sea! The Conflict Islands are made up of 21 untouched islands in Papua New Guinea. With spectacular reefs, palm trees and deep blue seas, the Conflict Islands are home an incredible array of marine wildlife. Today you may have a day at leisure on the ship or you may choose to purchase a shore excursion. This evening we will come together with the historians and our fellow passengers for a group dinner. (B, L, D)

The final day of our conference program, with two separate sessions (8am-10am and 1pm-3pm). This evening will be at leisure. (B, L, D)

Today is a chance for you to relax and enjoy all the facilities on board Pacific Dawn. This evening join together with the historians and fellow passengers for a farewell dinner. (B, L, D)

We will arrive at the Port of Brisbane at approximately 6.00am and disembark the ship afterwards. (B)