Outside-the-box tour operator Crooked Compass has partnered with Pearl Expeditions as a facilitator of pre- and post-expedition land extensions.
The tie-up means travellers on Paspaley Pearl will have access to a range of “culturally connected” extensions in Papua New Guinea, Borneo and Indonesia to accompany the ship’s movements.
“Together, we are offering the ultimate in high-class, experiential travel, allowing small groups of travellers to experience this frontier destination both by land and sea,” said Crooked Compass Founder, Lisa Pagotto.
“This collaboration promises to be the most comprehensive and educational way to explore these diverse landscapes and cultures available on the market, with a connection to culture and nature on the next level.”
Itineraries are still in the process of being finalised in line with Paspaley Pearl’s maiden season, which sets sail from the remote WA town of Wyndham on 31 Jul.
Pearl Expeditions Executive Chair, Sarina Bratton, was full of praise for her new partner when quizzed by travelBulletin in Dili last week.
“What a dynamic woman she is,” Bratton enthused, having met with Pagotto for lunch recently.
“I see that we’ll be doing some great business with Crooked Compass – I think they’re a fantastic operation.
“What she’s done is pretty brave and having been through a similar thing many times, so that’s where we had a terrific time together, resonating on attitude, how you go about things and risk reward type of activity,” Bratton added.
“I’ll be supporting her, and she will be supporting me”.
The full range of extension opportunities will be available to book through travel agents and from both Crooked Compass and Pearl Expeditions in time for the ship’s 2026 tour.
It’s the second time in less than a year that Crooked Compass has aligned with the Paspaley Pearl ship, having last year introduced a curated pre-cruise itinerary when the ship was preparing to launch under Ponant stewardship.
