How Far is Papua New Guinea from Australia?

Australia and Papua New Guinea are two neighbouring countries located in the South Pacific region. With their close proximity, many Australians and travellers alike are curious about the distance between the two countries. 

In this article, we will explore the distance between Australia and Papua New Guinea, including the closest point between the two countries, the duration of travel, and the connection options.

What is the closest point between Australia and Papua New Guinea?

The closest point between Australia and Papua New Guinea is located in the Torres Strait, which is a narrow stretch of water that separates the two countries. 

The Torres Strait is approximately 150 kilometres (93 miles) wide at its narrowest point, making it the closest distance between Australia and Papua New Guinea. 

The Torres Strait is named after the British navigator, Lieutenant James Cook, who discovered it in 1770 during his voyage on the HMS Endeavour.

How close is Australia and Papua New Guinea, Geographically?

Australia and PNG share a maritime border that extends along the Torres Strait. The distance between the two countries varies depending on the specific locations being compared. 

For instance, the closest point between the Australian mainland and the Papua New Guinea mainland is approximately 6.4 kilometres (4 miles) at its narrowest point, which is between the Cape York Peninsula in Australia and the southern coast of Papua New Guinea. 

However, the distance between other points on the coastlines of the two countries may be further apart, with some areas reaching up to 150 kilometres (93 miles) apart.

Check out this article about on the relative proximity of PNG and Australia

How Far is Papua New Guinea from Australia in Travel Time?

The duration of travel between Papua New Guinea and Australia depends on the mode of transportation chosen. 

The fastest and most common mode of travel between the two countries is by air. Flights from major cities in Australia, such as Brisbane, Cairns, and Sydney, to Port Moresby, the capital of PNG, typically take around 3 to 4 hours. 

However, flight times may vary depending on factors such as layovers, airline routes, and weather conditions.

Alternatively, travel by sea is also possible, with options such as cruise ships or private boats. These methods of travel may take significantly longer, as sea routes are subject to maritime regulations and weather conditions. 

The duration of travel by sea can vary greatly depending on the route taken and the speed of the vessel, ranging from several days to several weeks.

Conclusion

The distance between Australia and Papua New Guinea varies depending on the specific locations being compared, with the closest point located in the Torres Strait. 

Travel between the two countries is most commonly done by air, with flights taking around 3 to 4 hours. There are also sea travel options available, including ferry services and cruise ships, although these may take longer.