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Saint Matthias Group, Frontier Charters : Overview
Papua New Guinea
This is a WORLD FIRST and UNIQUE to Wavehunters (USA) World Surfaris (AUS) - guaranteed only boat in the region. ' As seen in May 2006 issue of Australian Surfing Life (ASL)
Only 10 x 10 days trips for 2006/07 season (2 each month in Nov / Dec / Jan / Feb / Mar) ONLY 60 SPACES AVAILABLE SO BOOK NOW!!!
 By Australian Skipper of Exocoetus, Andrew Rigby
Passage to St Mathias group is around 90nm North west of Kavieng, usually a 12 hour journey on the Exocoetus.Geographically within 2°S of the equator. It is a volcanic island, the last and oldest in the volcanic line of islands encompassing Emirau, the Tabar islands, Lihir, Tanga and Green islands. It is impressive on first view with its mountainous peak, usually encircled by the cloud. The island is fringed by reef, and where we moor the boat there is a natural reef lagoon.
The island has much to offer a visitor let alone surf. It has a multitude of fresh spring water holes, which appear to be constantly flowing from volcanic rock. The locals make use of these ‘holes’ for drinking water and bathing, which are an incredible green/blue owing to certain volcanic minerals present in the rock. There is also an impressive waterfall, with refreshing natural deep-water plunge pools. The vegetation on the island is pristine tropical rainforest, with a huge diversity of trees and plants. The topsoil is fertile and enables a variety of fruits, vegetables and herbs to be grown. We have a good relationship established with the locals who are keen to sell fresh produce, bread and traditional fare from their ‘moo moo’ ovens.
The fishing with trawl or handline is first-rate; the locals boast a certain reefy patch as the ‘fish supermarket’. Looking at the reef with mask and snorkel, is the best way to really appreciate how undisturbed this part of the world is. I have never seen so many different types of coral. What is most crucial in this case is that they are largely undamaged by human activity. The locals are keen to preserve their reef, and surprisingly very much aware of the impact that tourism could have. Between villages they are territorial, and local custom requires permission to be granted before fishing, and indeed surfing. In our trading trips we have been trying to communicate that the ethos of the surfing community, is one of preservation of such unique areas, and against pollution and damage of the seascape.
"Exocoetus" Boat Specifications :
14.95 m aluminium motor vessel.
1C survey for 29 passengers
VHF& HF
Radar, sonar, 1000m depth sounder
Integrated GPS/chart plotter
Wheelhouse/main accommodation fully air-conditioned
Kitchen/barbeque area
Hot/cold shower, basin & flush toilet
3000 litre capacity freshwater storage
240v/ 3 phase power
10 person life raft
Full regulation safety gear.
2* 23ft fibreglass dory’s with 40HP Mercury outboards
FOR AUSTRALIAN ENQUIRIES CONTACT:
E mail: info@worldsurfaris.com or Phone Tollfree 1 800 611 163 (within Australia). |
