Your ticket to the South Pacific Island holiday you’ve always dreamed of 

White sand beaches, year-round warm weather, stunning scenery, interesting culture, friendly people and excellent service – do these things add up to your perfect holiday? If the answer is yes, then grab your bags, you’re off to Vanuatu. On second thoughts, we’ll have someone else help with the bags – this is a cruise holiday and it’s all about relaxation.

There are many reasons why Vanuatu cruises make for great holidays. Aside from the picture-perfect backdrop, this island nation isn’t too far from home, and you’ll find it a little more affordable and less touristy than other South Pacific destinations like Fiji. Flying there is one way to go but how about enjoying your Pacific adventure in true style and cruising your way there?  

Here’s our guide to Vanuatu cruises.  

Vanuatu cruises – need to know 

Questions about travelling to Vanuatu? We’re here to help with some quick facts and answers to frequently asked questions. 

• Vanuatu is an archipelago made up of 80 islands in the South Pacific Ocean. The capital is Port Vila on Efate Island, and this is where most cruise ships dock.
• Cruises to Vanuatu from New Zealand leave from Auckland.
• New Zealand passport holders don’t need a visa to travel to Vanuatu for a trip of 30 – 90 days.
• With Vanuatu relatively close to New Zealand, it doesn’t take long to get there so cruises can start from just seven days.
• Peak cruise season is from May to October which is the dry season in Vanuatu.
• The average mid-day temperature is 29 degrees in summer and 25 degrees in winter. 

What to expect on your cruise 

Leaving from Auckland it’ll take three to five days to reach Vanuatu and your itinerary may also include stop offs at other delightful South Pacific destinations.

We know you’ll be looking forward to getting to Vanuatu to soak up that wonderfully laid-back atmosphere and the natural beauty of the islands but, trust us, you’ll be able to relax the minute you step aboard your ship. Cruise lines pride themselves on the high level of personal service they offer their guests and operators like P&O Cruises and Cunard have been doing this for over 100 years so you know you’re in good hands and your every need will be attended to. 

Days at sea are more than just a journey; you’ll be kept busy with all the on-board entertainment including live shows, movies, theme nights, fitness classes and workshops. Or not. Total relaxation is most definitely an option. Pamper yourself with a spa treatment, enjoy a dip in the pool and dine out at one of the main on-board restaurants and cafes. Cruise deals usually cover most of your food and entertainment (although, double check the details when you book) so why not indulge? 

Once you arrive in Vanuatu expect to be wowed by the views and warmly welcomed by the locals. From pristine beaches and turquoise seas with magnificent coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, to gorgeous blue pools and lagoons, lush rainforest, waterfalls and even volcanoes, it’s all here. Snorkelling, swimming and jungle trekking with local guides can all be added to the to-do list if you’re so inclined, but sitting on the beach or at a local cafe and simply watching the world go by is also highly recommended. Vanuatu has a fascinating history and culture, and there are many ways to experience it. Let’s look at what there is to do while you’re in Vanuatu. 

Activities in Vanuatu 

Signing up with the cruise line for an organised shore excursion is a hassle-free way to see the sights and experience the local attractions but if you feel confident doing your own research and making your arrangements you could also explore independently. Just be sure to get back to the ship in good time – it might not wait for you if you’re late! 

Below are some of the popular shore excursions in Vanuatu. 

Champagne Beach 

A tropical paradise of white sand and crystal-clear water which does look a bit like champagne thanks to the bubbles which rise to the surface due to volcanic gases beneath the sand. Calm and shallow, this is a popular beach for swimming and snorkelling. 

Mystery Island

Another popular spot for swimming, snorkelling and paddleboarding, you can also visit the beach markets to buy locally made handicrafts and try the local produce. Set against a protected marine reserve, you may even spot a turtle or two in the water. 

Port Vila 

Vanuatu’s capital is a great place to spend a day browsing the local markets, relaxing at the waterfront cafes and learning more about the Ni-Vanuatu culture. The Ekasup Cultural Village is close by and here you can enjoy performances of traditional music and dance, demonstrations of skills like weaving and carving, and hear from local guides about Vanuatu’s fascinating history. 

What to pack for your Vanuatu cruise 

Along with the all-important items such as travel documents and personal medication, here’s a packing list to help you prepare for your cruise: 

• Light clothing and swimwear: Vanuatu has a tropical climate, so you’ll find lightweight, loose clothing most comfortable. 
• Evening wear: if you'd like to take part in one of the formal nights onboard your cruise ship. A great excuse to get dressed up! 
• Comfortable walking shoes:  for exploring these beautiful destinations. Jandals could also come in handy for the beach. 
• Sun protection: sunscreen, sunhat and sunglasses. 
• Rain gear: especially if you’re travelling during the wet season (November – April). 
• Day pack: to carry handy items like a reusable water bottle as well as any souvenirs. 
• Camera or smartphone: there are photo opportunities at every turn! 
  
   

The content of this article is general and provided for information purposes only. It is not intended to be medical advice. Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) doesn’t guarantee or warrant the accuracy, completeness or currency of the articles.

This article may contain hyperlinks to other websites owned or operated by third parties, or references to third party products or services. SCTI isn’t responsible for, and makes no recommendation about, the content or accuracy of any third party website, or for the suitability or performance of any product or service. The inclusion of a link in this article doesn’t imply that SCTI endorses the website or third party product/service.