
Palmerston Island Cruise Port
Palmerston Island, Cook Islands
Palmerston Island is a small coral atoll located in the Cook Islands in the South Pacific Ocean.

The cruise port in Palmerston Island,
explained
Palmerston Island is a small coral atoll located in the Cook Islands in the South Pacific Ocean. It is one of the northernmost islands in the Cook Islands and is located about 500 miles north of Rarotonga.
The island is home to about 60 people, who are descendants of William Marsters, an Englishman who settled on the island in 1863. The island is only 1.
2 miles long and 0. 6 miles wide, and is surrounded by a beautiful lagoon.
The island is mostly covered in coconut palms and other tropical vegetation. The island is a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the stunning beaches, snorkeling, and fishing.
The island is also known for its unique culture, which is a mix of Polynesian and English traditions. The islanders are known for their hospitality and friendliness, and visitors are welcomed with open arms.
Palmerston Island is a beautiful and unique destination, and a great place to experience the culture and beauty of the Cook Islands.
Upcoming cruises to Palmerston Island
4 cruises stop here in Palmerston Island during the next 12 months. These are the next ones to leave, by sail date.




Where is Palmerston Island Cruise Port?
Palmerston Island is located in the southern Cook Islands, approximately 600 miles northeast of New Zealand. It is a small, uninhabited atoll with a circumference of just over 4 miles. The island is surrounded by a coral reef and is home to a variety of tropical fish and other marine life. The cruise port is located on the western side of the island, and is accessible by boat or helicopter.
- General location
- South Pacific
- Coordinates
- 18.04°S, 163.15°W
- Time zone
- Antarctica/Palmer
What to do in Palmerston Island
A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.
Ways to spend the day
3 themesHiking
Hiking is a great way to explore the natural beauty of Palmerston Island, Cook Islands. The island has several trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding ocean and lush vegetation. Hikers can explore the island's many beaches, as well as its rugged interior. The island also has several waterfalls, which can be reached by hiking trails.
Kayaking
Kayaking is another popular activity for cruise passengers visiting Palmerston Island, Cook Islands. The island's calm waters make it an ideal spot for kayaking, and there are several kayaking tours available that take visitors around the island. Kayakers can explore the island's many coves and inlets, as well as its stunning coral reefs.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is a popular activity for cruise passengers visiting Palmerston Island, Cook Islands. The crystal clear waters of the island provide an ideal environment for snorkeling, with a variety of colorful fish and coral to explore. The island also has several snorkeling spots, including the popular Blue Lagoon, which is known for its abundance of sea life.
Palmerston Island cruise port beaches
3 in our guide
Arorangi Beach
Arorangi Beach is a stunning white sand beach located on the western side of Palmerston Island. It is the perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The crystal clear waters are teeming with colorful fish and coral, making it a great spot for underwater exploration. The beach is also a great spot for a picnic, with plenty of shady spots to relax and take in the views.

Tautu Beach
Tautu Beach is a stunning white sand beach located on the northern side of Palmerston Island. It is the perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The crystal clear waters are teeming with colorful fish and coral, making it a great spot for underwater exploration. The beach is also a great spot for a picnic, with plenty of shady spots to relax and take in the views. There is also a small beach bar where you can grab a cold drink and watch the sunset.

Tupapa Beach
Tupapa Beach is a beautiful beach located on the eastern side of Palmerston Island. It is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach is lined with palm trees and has a stunning view of the surrounding islands. The waters are crystal clear and full of colorful fish and coral, making it a great spot for underwater exploration. The beach is also a great spot for a picnic, with plenty of shady spots to relax and take in the views.
Island of Love
Palmerston Island is known as the 'Island of Love' due to its romantic history. The island was first settled by a British sailor, William Marsters, and his three Polynesian wives. Marsters and his wives lived on the island for over 50 years, and their descendants still live there today. The island is a popular destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway.
Traditional Culture
Palmerston Island is home to a traditional Polynesian culture that has been passed down through generations. The islanders are known for their traditional crafts, such as weaving, wood carving, and shell jewelry. They also practice traditional fishing and farming techniques, and are known for their hospitality and welcoming nature.
Unique Flora and Fauna
Palmerston Island is home to a variety of unique flora and fauna. The island is home to a number of endemic species, including the Palmerston Island Fruit Dove, the Palmerston Island White-eye, and the Palmerston Island Reed Warbler. The island is also home to a number of rare and endangered species, such as the Tuamotu Kingfisher and the Tuamotu Sandpiper.
Palmerston Island cruise port shopping
3 in our guide
Avarua Shopping Centre
The Avarua Shopping Centre is a great place to find souvenirs from the Cook Islands. Located just a short drive from the cruise port, the shopping centre offers a variety of items from local artisans, including jewelry, carvings, and clothing. Prices are reasonable and the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming. It's a great place to pick up a unique souvenir to remember your time in the Cook Islands.

Rarotonga Shopping Centre
The Rarotonga Shopping Centre is a great place to find souvenirs from the Cook Islands. Located just a short drive from the cruise port, the shopping centre offers a variety of items from local artisans, including jewelry, carvings, and clothing. Prices are reasonable and the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming. It's a great place to pick up a unique souvenir to remember your time in the Cook Islands.

Tupapa Market
Tupapa Market is a great place to find souvenirs from the Cook Islands. Located just a short walk from the cruise port, the market offers a variety of items from local artisans, including jewelry, carvings, and clothing. Prices are reasonable and the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming. It's a great place to pick up a unique souvenir to remember your time in the Cook Islands.
Which Palmerston Island cruise terminal will your ship use?
Your cruise line assigns the pier — here's what each one means for your day ashore.
Avatiu Port
Avatiu, Palmerston Island, Cook IslandsAvatiu Port is the main cruise ship terminal in Palmerston Island, Cook Islands. It is located in the village of Avatiu and is the main port of entry for cruise ships. The port is equipped with modern facilities and services, including a passenger terminal, a customs office, and a variety of shops and restaurants. It is also the main hub for ferry services to the other islands in the Cook Islands.

Titikaveka Port
Titikaveka, Palmerston Island, Cook IslandsTitikaveka Port is a smaller cruise ship terminal located in the village of Titikaveka on Palmerston Island, Cook Islands. It is a popular port of call for smaller cruise ships and offers a variety of services, including a passenger terminal, a customs office, and a variety of shops and restaurants. It is also the main hub for ferry services to the other islands in the Cook Islands.

Tongareva Port
Tongareva, Palmerston Island, Cook IslandsTongareva Port is a smaller cruise ship terminal located in the village of Tongareva on Palmerston Island, Cook Islands. It is a popular port of call for smaller cruise ships and offers a variety of services, including a passenger terminal, a customs office, and a variety of shops and restaurants. It is also the main hub for ferry services to the other islands in the Cook Islands.

Unfortunately, there is no public wifi access available in Palmerston Island, Cook Islands cruise port. However, some of the cruise ships that visit the island may offer wifi access to passengers.
Palmerston Island is generally considered to be a safe cruise port. The island is part of the Cook Islands, which is a peaceful and safe destination. There is no crime on the island and visitors can feel safe exploring the island and its attractions.
Palmerston Island, Cook Islands
The closest car rental option near Palmerston Island, Cook Islands cruise port is Avis Rent A Car, located in Avarua, Rarotonga. They offer a variety of vehicles, including economy, compact, intermediate, full-size, and luxury cars, as well as minivans and SUVs. They also offer a range of optional extras, such as GPS navigation systems, child seats, and additional drivers. Other car rental options in the area include Budget Rent A Car, Hertz, and Thrifty.
Piers are assigned by the cruise line — check your ship's docking notice the morning you arrive.
Palmerston Island Cruise Port Weather
- High
- 83°F
- Low
- 72°F
- Rain
- 3.7 in
Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.
Palmerston Island Cruise Port Traffic Today
No cruise ships are scheduled in Palmerston Island today, Tuesday, October 20, 2026. Check the schedule for another date to see when ships are next due alongside.
Schedule updated
Popular ports in the South Pacific
Other ports cruisers visit most in the South Pacific.
Palmerston Island cruise port, answered
The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in Palmerston Island.
Where is Palmerston Island cruise port located?
Palmerston Island, Cook Islands cruise port is located in South Pacific. Palmerston Island is located in the southern Cook Islands, approximately 600 miles northeast of New Zealand. It is a small, uninhabited atoll with a circumference of just over 4 miles. The island is surrounded by a coral reef and is home to a variety of tropical fish and other marine life. The cruise port is located on the western side of the island, and is accessible by boat or helicopter.
Is Palmerston Island a good cruise port to visit?
Yes, Palmerston Island in the Cook Islands is a great cruise port. It is a small, remote atoll with beautiful white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and a variety of activities to enjoy. The island is known for its excellent snorkeling and diving, as well as its unique culture and history. It is a great place to explore and relax.
How safe is Palmerston Island cruise port for passengers?
Palmerston Island cruise port has a safety score of 7.8 out of 10, ranking #187 of 318 ports in South Pacific. Palmerston Island is generally considered to be a safe cruise port. The island is part of the Cook Islands, which is a peaceful and safe destination. There is no crime on the island and visitors can feel safe exploring the island and its attractions.
What is the weather like at Palmerston Island cruise port in October?
In October, Palmerston Island cruise port has average high temperatures of 83°F (28°C) and average lows of 72°F (22°C).
What are the top things to do at Palmerston Island cruise port?
Palmerston Island cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Hiking, Kayaking, Snorkeling. Palmerston Island, Cook Islands is known for its stunning natural beauty and its unique culture. Visitors can explore the island's lush tropical forests, white sand beaches, and crystal clear waters. There are plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing, as well as exploring the island's unique flora and fauna. Visitors can also learn about the island's culture and history by visiting the local museum and interacting with the friendly locals. There are also plenty of activities to enjoy, such as kayaking, sailing, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Can I rent a car at Palmerston Island cruise port?
The closest car rental option near Palmerston Island, Cook Islands cruise port is Avis Rent A Car, located in Avarua, Rarotonga. They offer a variety of vehicles, including economy, compact, intermediate, full-size, and luxury cars, as well as minivans and SUVs. They also offer a range of optional extras, such as GPS navigation systems, child seats, and additional drivers. Other car rental options in the area include Budget Rent A Car, Hertz, and Thrifty.
What is the WiFi situation at Palmerston Island cruise port?
Unfortunately, there is no public wifi access available in Palmerston Island, Cook Islands cruise port. However, some of the cruise ships that visit the island may offer wifi access to passengers.
Where is the cruise terminal at Palmerston Island cruise port?
The address of Palmerston Island, Cook Islands cruise port is Palmerston Island, Cook Islands.
What is the Palmerston Island Cruise Port cruise schedule?
There are no cruise ships scheduled at Palmerston Island today. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check Palmerston Island on any past or future date.



