OUTSIDE-THE-BOX tour operator Crooked Compass has partnered with Pearl Expeditions as a facilitator of pre- and post-expedition land extensions, Cruise Weekly can reveal.
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 Executive Chair Sarina Bratton said she is looking forward to working with Pagotto on the venture.
“What a dynamic woman she is…I think they’re a fantastic operation,” Bratton enthused.
Both women share a similar attitude towards business and travel, added Bratton.
The Pearl head said she admires Pagotto’s “brave” approach towards embracing unique travel destinations as part of the Crooked Compass experience.
“I’ll be supporting her and she will be supporting me,” she said.
The full range of extension opportunities will be available to book through travel advisors and from both Crooked Compass and Pearl Expeditions in time for the ship’s 2026 tour.
It is 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’s stewardship (CW 16 Oct 2024). ML
Pagotto and Bratton are pictured outside Paspaley Pearl, currently moored in Timor-Leste.
