One thing is keeping me from New Ireland.......

That is the money.

Has anyone been to New Ireland/New Britain region lately? How are the costs of guesthouses and boat rides between islands? Are high petrol prices an issue like in Solomon Islands?

I travel light and cheap accommodations are fine for me. Any help would be appreciated.

I'm going this year, if I can afford it.

P.S. Is the snorkeling good?