Vanuatu
Well known for its dramatic landscapes, friendly locals and postcard-perfect beaches, Vanuatu is for many visitors a dream tropical destination. You can sample some gourmet local fare, visit traditional villages, dive through the shipwreck of a luxury liner and even explore an active volcano in this sun-kissed island getaway. The possibilities are virtually endless on a Vanuatu cruise to the heart of the South Pacific.
New Caledonia & Vanuatu
8 night cruise sailing from Sydney, Australia aboard the Ruby Princess.
Departs
05 Dec 2019
from
$949*
per person twin share
per person twin share
Pacific Island Hopper
7 night cruise sailing from Brisbane aboard the Pacific Explorer.
Departs
28 Nov 2020
from
$997*
per person twin share
per person twin share
South Pacific
7 night cruise sailing from Brisbane aboard the Radiance of the Seas.
Departs
24 Mar 2021
from
$1014*
per person twin share
per person twin share
South Pacific
8 night cruise sailing from Brisbane aboard the Radiance of the Seas.
Departs
05 Mar 2021
from
$1059*
per person twin share
per person twin share
Pacific Island Hopper
7 night cruise sailing from Brisbane aboard the Pacific Dawn.
Departs
05 Sep 2020
from
$1076*
per person twin share
per person twin share
Pacific Island Hopper
7 night cruise sailing from Brisbane aboard the Pacific Explorer.
Departs
06 Feb 2021
from
$1096*
per person twin share
per person twin share
Pacific Island Hopper
7 night cruise sailing from Brisbane aboard the Pacific Explorer.
Departs
27 Mar 2021
from
$1096*
per person twin share
per person twin share
Pacific Island Hopper
7 night cruise sailing from Brisbane aboard the Pacific Dawn.
Departs
19 Sep 2020
from
$1096*
per person twin share
per person twin share
Pacific Island Hopper
7 night cruise sailing from Brisbane aboard the Pacific Dawn.
Departs
26 Sep 2020
from
$1096*
per person twin share
per person twin share
Pacifi Island Hopper
7 night cruise sailing from Brisbane aboard the Pacific Dawn.
Departs
04 Jul 2020
from
$1096*
per person twin share
per person twin share
Pacific Island Hopper
7 night cruise sailing from Brisbane aboard the Pacific Explorer.
Departs
22 May 2021
from
$1097*
per person twin share
per person twin share
Pacific Island Hopper
7 night cruise sailing from Brisbane aboard the Pacific Explorer.
Departs
24 Oct 2020
from
$1097*
per person twin share
per person twin share
Destination Overview
The Republic of Vanuatu is a cluster of 83 islands, situated approximately 1,750 kilometres east of Australia. First discovered by Portuguese explorer Pedro Fernandes de Queiros in 1606, it wasn’t until 1768 that European explorers returned once again. In 1774, British explorer Captain James Cook named the islands the New Hebrides, with the name lasting until independence was granted in 1980. Since 1994, Vanuatu has been divided into six provinces, with Port Vila as its cosmopolitan capital.
- Currency - Vanuatu Vatu
- Population - Approx. 247,000
- Language - Vanuatu has three official languages – English, French and Bislama – however a further 113 indigenous languages are still actively spoken throughout the islands. The only language universally understood in Vanuatu is Bislama – a creole language that combines Melanesian grammar with an English vocabulary.
- Time Zone - UTC+11
Did you know..?
The name Vanuatu is derived from the word Vanua meaning 'land' or 'home' and tu meaning 'stand.' It was chosen to represent the newly-fledged independence of the islands.
Who goes there?
Cruises dock in Port Vila all year round on board major lines such as Princess Cruises, P&O Australia and Carnival Australia. From September through to May, itineraries with Royal Caribbean, Cunard Line and Holland American Line are also available.
Best time to go?
The best time to visit Vanuatu comes down to personal preference and what you plan to do during your holiday. If you prefer a warm, humid climate and don’t mind a bit of rain, then head there between the months of November and March.
If you prefer cooler and drier weather, then April through to October is the best time to travel. Even so, water temperatures range between 22 and 28 degrees Celsius all year round, so swimming is always an enjoyable prospect no matter when you visit.
Australian school holiday periods are generally the busiest times of the year, with prices rising accordingly and accommodation often booking out fast.
Highlights
While Vanuatu's bountiful highlights are too many to mention, here are just a few top picks to help kick-start your cruise holiday to this enchanting destination.
- Take a trip to the active volcano Mount Yasur on Tanna Island and stand on the rim of its fiery crater
- Discover more about the islands' unique history and diverse culture at the Vanuatu Cultural Centre and Museum in Port Vila
- Post a 'waterproof postcard' home when you visit the world’s only Underwater Post Office, located in Hideaway Island Marine Sanctuary