Port Vila Cruises

Discover the Tropical Paradise of Port Vila, Vanuatu

Port Vila, the vibrant capital of Vanuatu, is a stunning destination known for its lush landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and warm, welcoming locals. Choosing to visit Port Vila on a cruise offers an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture while exploring breathtaking scenery. Fun fact: Vanuatu is considered one of the happiest countries in the world, with its people celebrating life through traditional music, dance, and community festivals!

What Awaits You in Port Vila, Vanuatu

As your cruise ship docks in the picturesque haven of Port Vila, you’ll find a wealth of activities and sights to delight in:

• Explore the Markets: The bustling Port Vila Markets offer a vibrant experience to explore local produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Enjoy fresh tropical fruits, traditional handicrafts, and unique souvenirs hand-made by local artisans.
• Visit Mele Cascades: A short trip outside of Port Vila, Mele Cascades is a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest. Take a refreshing swim in the natural pools or enjoy a scenic hike through the beautiful landscape.
• Enjoy the Cultural Centre: Discover the unique Melanesian culture through engaging performances and exhibits at the Vanuatu Cultural Centre. Learn about traditional customs, crafts, and dance, which provide a deeper connection to the local heritage.
• Snorkelling and Diving: Discover vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life while snorkelling or diving at one of the nearby sites, such as Hideaway Island, renowned for its stunning underwater views.
• Learn about Vanuatu’s History: Explore the interesting history of Vanuatu at the National Museum, where artefacts and exhibits tell the story of the islands' heritage, from ancient times to the present day.

Common Harbours to Visit Near Port Vila

Your cruise itinerary may also include these captivating harbours before or after Port Vila:

• Mystery Island, Vanuatu: This stunning uninhabited island is famous for its pristine beaches and superb snorkelling. Enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters and relaxing on golden sands.
• Noumea, New Caledonia: A cosmopolitan city with a rich French influence, Noumea offers stunning beaches, vibrant markets, and excellent dining options, blending culture and relaxation perfectly.
• Lifou, New Caledonia: Part of the Loyalty Islands, Lifou boasts breathtaking beaches and coral reefs ideal for snorkelling and swimming in calm, turquoise waters.
• Cairns, Australia: A gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns provides various water activities, including diving and snorkelling, as well as rainforest excursions for exploring the surrounding natural beauty.
• Dravuni, Fiji: Known for its stunning beaches and lush landscapes, Dravuni offers visitors the chance to relax or explore local culture through island walks and beach activities.

Regions Commonly Explored on Cruises Including Port Vila

Your voyage to Port Vila opens up captivating regions filled with adventures and beautiful sights. Here’s what to expect:

• South Pacific: The South Pacific is renowned for its idyllic islands and vibrant cultures. With destinations like Fiji and Tahiti, this region offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure to suit every traveller.
• Australia: Australia boasts breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and exciting urban experiences. Discover the Great Barrier Reef, Kakadu National Park, or the vibrant cities of Sydney and Melbourne.
• Hawaii: A tropical paradise celebrated for its stunning beaches and volcanic landscapes, Hawaii invites visitors to enjoy its unique culture, delicious cuisine, and various outdoor activities.
• New Zealand: Known for its dramatic mountain ranges and Maori heritage, New Zealand offers thrilling outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery that captivates every type of traveller.
• Caribbean: Rich in culture, breathtaking beaches, and colourful marine life, the Caribbean is perfect for those looking to unwind on sandy shores or explore its vibrant islands.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Port Vila

• Royal Caribbean: Featuring Voyager of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas, Royal Caribbean provides an engaging onboard experience including diverse entertainment and dining options, with most departures occurring from Brisbane or Sydney.
• Carnival Cruise Lines: With Carnival Splendor and Carnival Luminosa making regular stops in Port Vila, Carnival Cruise Lines is known for its fun-filled atmosphere and family-friendly activities, often departing from Sydney or Brisbane.
• Holland America Line: Noordam and Zaandam from Holland America Line offer a sophisticated cruising experience with high-quality dining and enriching shore excursions, typically departing from Sydney or San Diego.
• Princess Cruises: Coral Princess and Grand Princess bring a mix of relaxation and adventure to their itineraries, with amenities including pools, spa services, and fantastic dining options. Departures generally occur from Brisbane.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Spirit provide the flexibility of freestyle cruising, allowing guests to dine when and how they want while exploring exciting destinations, mostly departing from Brisbane and Sydney.

Best Times to Visit Port Vila, Vanuatu

Your experience in Port Vila can vary significantly with the seasons. Here's what to expect at different times of the year:

• Summer (December, January, February): Expect warm temperatures averaging between 24°C and 31°C, ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and enjoying the beach. Summer is also the wet season, so occasional rainfall is possible.
• Autumn (March, April, May): With pleasant temperatures ranging from 23°C to 29°C, autumn offers a great opportunity for outdoor exploration while experiencing fewer crowds compared to the summer months.
• Winter (June, July, August): Cooler temperatures averaging between 20°C and 27°C create a comfortable climate for exploring both land and sea. This is the dry season, making it an excellent time for outdoor adventures.
• Spring (September, October, November): Spring temperatures range from 20°C to 29°C, with lush greenery. This season allows you to enjoy beautiful scenery, wildlife spotting, and delightful weather conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Port Vila, Vanuatu

Typical cruise costs to Port Vila start around $1,200 for a one-week itinerary and approximately $2,300 for two weeks. Luxury cruises may range from $3,500 for a week to upwards of $7,000 for two weeks.

Most meals on board will be included in your cruise fare, while specialty dining options may incur an extra cost of $30-$60 per person. Expect beverage prices to range from $5 for soft drinks to around $15 for cocktails.

Onboard dining features a selection of international cuisines, while Port Vila offers local eateries with delicious Vanuatu dishes, and local markets where fresh produce and unique handicrafts can be found.

In Port Vila, transportation consists of local buses, taxis, and rental services. Many attractions are within walking distance, allowing for easy exploration at your leisure.

The local currency is the Vanuatu vatu. Most businesses accept credit cards, but it’s a good idea to have some cash for local markets and smaller vendors.

Port Vila is generally safe for tourists. Stay vigilant about your belongings, and don't forget to apply sunscreen when enjoying outdoor activities or at the beach.

English is widely understood, but learning a few local phrases in Bislama can enhance your experience and interactions with locals.