Coral Princess
21% offsuite
South PacificSouth Pacific
Port Vila Cruise Port
Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu
Port Vila is the capital and largest city of the island nation of Vanuatu, located on the island of Efate.
Ships in port today
- Quantum of the Seas7:00A — 5:00P
Safety rank
#228
of 318 ports in the South Pacific
Today · high / low
84° / 74°
November normals
South Pacific
Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu
// Port Vila cruise port overview
The cruise port in Port Vila,
explained
Lat: 17.7°SLong: 168.3°ETimezone: Pacific/EfateINTN code: VLI
Port Vila is the capital and largest city of the island nation of Vanuatu, located on the island of Efate. It is a vibrant and bustling city, with a population of around 44,000 people.
The city is known for its stunning natural beauty, with lush green hills, white sandy beaches, and crystal clear waters. It is a popular tourist destination, with a wide range of activities and attractions to explore.
The city is home to a number of cultural and historical sites, including the National Museum of Vanuatu, the National Library, and the National Archives. There are also a number of markets and shops to explore, as well as a vibrant nightlife.
Port Vila is also a great place to experience the unique culture of Vanuatu, with a range of traditional festivals and events taking place throughout the year. With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and wide range of activities and attractions, Port Vila is a great destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of Vanuatu.
Ships visiting
8 lines
14 ships call at Port Vila
Peak passenger day
4,160
cruise passengers ashore
Excursions from
$8
per person · 66 tours
Most ships dock at
8:00 AM
arrival for 54% of calls
Average port time
9h
alongside, typical call
Excursions in Port Vila start at $8.
Browse Port Vila excursions// Port Vila Cruise Deals
Price drops on cruises to Port Vila
138 cruises stop here in Port Vila during the next 12 months. The cruise price drops below represent the largest decrease in price against each Port Vila cruise's 90-day average.
Prices refreshed daily
Coral Princess
21% offsuite
Celebrity Solstice
20% offinside
Norwegian Spirit
16% offinside
Coral Princess
15% offsuite
Grand Princess
11% offbalcony
Coral Princess
10% offinside
Grand Princess
9% offsuite
// Port Vila Cruise Port location
Where is Port Vila Cruise Port?
Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu is located on the south coast of the island of Efate, in the South Pacific Ocean. It is approximately 1,200 km (750 miles) east of Australia and 1,800 km (1,100 miles) northwest of New Zealand. The port is situated in a sheltered bay, with a deepwater channel leading to the harbor. The port is well-equipped with modern facilities, including a cruise terminal, a marina, and a variety of shops and restaurants.
- General location
- South Pacific
- Coordinates
- 17.74°S, 168.31°E
- Time zone
- Pacific/Efate
Cruise port · 17.74°S, 168.31°E
Map data · OpenStreetMap
// Port Vila cruise port guide
What to do in Port Vila
A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.
Your day ashore
You'll have about 9 hours in Port Vila. Most ships dock around 8:00 AM.
Median across 59 scheduled calls
Ways to spend the day
3 themesTheme 1
Cultural Experiences
Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu is home to a unique culture and a rich history. Cruise passengers can take part in a variety of cultural experiences, such as visiting a local village, learning about traditional customs, and trying local cuisine. There are also several cultural tours available, which provide an in-depth look at the history and culture of the region.
Theme 2
Island Hopping
Island hopping is a great way to explore the many islands of Vanuatu. Cruise passengers can take a day trip to one of the nearby islands, such as Hideaway Island or Moso Island, and enjoy the stunning scenery and unique culture. There are also several boat tours available that will take you to multiple islands in one day, allowing you to experience the best of Vanuatu's islands.
Theme 3
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is a popular activity for cruise passengers visiting Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu. The crystal clear waters of the South Pacific provide an ideal environment for snorkeling, with a variety of colorful fish and coral to explore. There are several snorkeling tours available, with experienced guides to help you make the most of your experience.
Port Vila cruise port beaches
3 in our guideM
Mele Beach
Mele Beach is a stunning beach near Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu. It is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing, with white sand and crystal clear waters. The beach is also home to a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and dolphins. Visitors can also enjoy activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and beach volleyball.
H
Hideaway Island
Hideaway Island is a popular beach near Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu. It is a great spot for snorkeling and swimming, with crystal clear waters and plenty of colorful fish. The beach is also home to a marine sanctuary, where visitors can observe a variety of sea life. There are also plenty of activities to enjoy, such as kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and beach volleyball.
I
Iririki Island
Iririki Island is a beautiful beach near Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu. It is a great spot for swimming and snorkeling, with crystal clear waters and plenty of colorful fish. The beach is also home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and manta rays. Visitors can also enjoy activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and beach volleyball.
// Port Vila fun facts
The Ekasup Cultural Village
The Ekasup Cultural Village is a great place to learn about the culture and history of the local Ni-Vanuatu people. Visitors can take part in traditional activities such as weaving, cooking, and fishing, as well as learn about the local customs and beliefs. The village also offers a great selection of traditional handicrafts and souvenirs to take home.
Mele Cascades
Mele Cascades is a stunning waterfall located on the island of Efate. It is a great spot for swimming, as the water is crystal clear and the cascades provide a refreshing break from the heat. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the area, which includes a visit to the nearby Mele Maat Cave, a sacred site for the local Ni-Vanuatu people.
The Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is a popular tourist destination located on the island of Efate. It is a stunningly beautiful lagoon surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and crystal clear waters. It is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, and is a great place to relax and take in the stunning views of the island.
Port Vila cruise port shopping
3 in our guideP
Port Vila Market
Port Vila Market is a great place to find souvenirs and other items to take home from your cruise. The market is located in the center of town and is open every day from 8am to 5pm. You can find a variety of items here, from local handicrafts to jewelry and clothing. The prices are very reasonable and the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming.
V
Vanuatu Cultural Centre
The Vanuatu Cultural Centre is a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts from your cruise. The centre is located in the heart of Port Vila and is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Here you can find a variety of items, from traditional handicrafts to jewelry and clothing. The prices are very reasonable and the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming.
V
Vila Handicrafts
Vila Handicrafts is a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts from your cruise. The shop is located in the center of town and is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Here you can find a variety of items, from traditional handicrafts to jewelry and clothing. The prices are very reasonable and the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming.
// Port Vila Cruise Port Terminals
Which Port Vila cruise terminal will your ship use?
Your cruise line assigns the pier — here's what each one means for your day ashore.
3 piers in Port Vila
Pier 1 of 3
Hideaway Island Cruise Ship Terminal
Hideaway Island, Efate, VanuatuThe Hideaway Island Cruise Ship Terminal is located on the beautiful Hideaway Island in Efate, Vanuatu. It is a popular destination for cruise ships, with a range of services and facilities available for passengers. The terminal is well-equipped to handle large cruise ships, and is close to many of the island's attractions and amenities. It is also the main port of entry for cruise ships visiting the island.
Pier 2 of 3
Mele Bay Cruise Ship Terminal
Mele Bay, Efate, VanuatuThe Mele Bay Cruise Ship Terminal is located in the beautiful Mele Bay area of Efate, Vanuatu. It is a popular destination for cruise ships, with a range of services and facilities available for passengers. The terminal is well-equipped to handle large cruise ships, and is close to many of the island's attractions and amenities. It is also the main port of entry for cruise ships visiting the island.
Pier 3 of 3
Port Vila Cruise Ship Terminal
Port Vila, Efate, VanuatuThe Port Vila Cruise Ship Terminal is the main cruise ship terminal in Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu. It is located in the heart of the city, close to many of the city's attractions and amenities. The terminal is well-equipped to handle large cruise ships, with a range of services and facilities available for passengers. It is also the main port of entry for cruise ships visiting the island.
Wi-Fi
The majority of cafes, restaurants, and hotels in Port Vila offer free wifi access. Additionally, the Port Vila Tourist Information Centre offers free wifi access to visitors.
Safety
Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu is generally considered to be a safe cruise port. The crime rate is low, and the local police are known to be friendly and helpful. However, as with any destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Port address
Port Vila, Efate, VanuatuPO Box 607Port Vila, Vanuatu
Port Vila cruise port car rental
Avis VanuatuBudget VanuatuHertz VanuatuThrifty Vanuatu
Piers are assigned by the cruise line — check your ship's docking notice the morning you arrive.
// Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu cruise port excursions
Most Popular Port Vila Cruise Port Tours
66 excursions · book direct with the operator
Independent shore excursions in Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu, booked directly with the operator who runs them. We flag the ones that guarantee you're back on board before the gangway lifts.
Best Port Vila shore tours
Curated from 66 · not a search result
4.8(202)$100
Vanuatu Jungle Zipline with Transfers
Worry-free4.9(190)$69
Small Group River Kayaking Tour from Port Vila
Worry-free4.5(186)$107
Port Vila Full Day Tour - Experience the Real Vanuatu
4.8(119)$120
Full-Day Efate Round Island Trip with Yumi Tours
Worry-free4.3(98)$122
Hideaway Island Escape, Blue Lagoon and Turtle Experience
4.6(95)$15
Port Vila International Airport to Hotel with Yumi Tours
3.9(92)$8
Airport Arrival Transfer - To Port Vila Hotel
Worry-free4.7(88)$328
Private Daily Mini Van Hire Including Tour Guide
8hPrivate Sightseeing Tours
View Details for Private Daily Mini Van Hire Including Tour Guide (opens in a new tab)// Weather
Port Vila Cruise Port Weather
South Pacific·30-year historical averages
Nov averages · Port Vila
79°
Avg · °F
Warm, frequent showers
- High
- 84°F
- Low
- 74°F
- Rain
- 4.3 in
// Year-round in Port Vila
Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.
Avg temp °FRainfall in
// Port Vila cruise ship schedule
Port Vila Cruise Port Traffic Today
One cruise ship is docked in Port Vila today, Monday, November 2, 2026, bringing an estimated 5,660 passengers and crew ashore across the port's 3 piers — Hideaway Island Cruise Ship Terminal, Port Vila Cruise Ship Terminal and Mele Bay Cruise Ship Terminal. Arrival and departure times below show how long each ship stays alongside, so you can judge how crowded Port Vila will be while you're in port.
Schedule updated
Total port traffic
5,660
- Passengers
- 4,160
- Crew
- 1,500
- Ships
- 1
How busy is it?
Busy
5,660 passengers and crew — 46% busier than a typical Port Vila port day.
QuietTypical · 3,876Peak
5 AM8 AM11 AM2 PM5 PM8 PM11 PM
5 AM to midnight · solid bar = hours alongside · faded = arrival only, departure not published
Planning around the crowds?
- Port Vila cruise port schedule 2026, day by day
- Slowest & busiest day analysis
- Complete cruise line & ship visitor list
// Keep exploring
Also on your cruise
80% of Port Vila cruises also call at one of these.
// Questions
Port Vila cruise port, answered
The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in Port Vila.
Where is Port Vila cruise port located?
Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu cruise port is located in South Pacific. Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu is located on the south coast of the island of Efate, in the South Pacific Ocean. It is approximately 1,200 km (750 miles) east of Australia and 1,800 km (1,100 miles) northwest of New Zealand. The port is situated in a sheltered bay, with a deepwater channel leading to the harbor. The port is well-equipped with modern facilities, including a cruise terminal, a marina, and a variety of shops and restaurants.
Is Port Vila a good cruise port to visit?
Yes, Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu is a popular cruise port. It is known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforest, and vibrant culture. Cruise ships often stop here to allow passengers to explore the island and take part in activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and sightseeing.
How safe is Port Vila cruise port for passengers?
Port Vila cruise port has a safety score of 6.9 out of 10, ranking #228 of 318 ports in South Pacific. Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu is generally considered to be a safe cruise port. The crime rate is low, and the local police are known to be friendly and helpful. However, as with any destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
What is the weather like at Port Vila cruise port in November?
In November, Port Vila cruise port has average high temperatures of 84°F (29°C) and average lows of 74°F (24°C).
How many excursions are available at Port Vila cruise port?
There are currently 66 excursions and tours available at Port Vila cruise port, covering everything from guided sightseeing and cultural experiences to water sports and adventure activities. Book in advance to secure your preferred experience.
What are the top things to do at Port Vila cruise port?
Port Vila cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Cultural Experiences, Island Hopping, Snorkeling. Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu is known for its stunning natural beauty and wide range of activities. From the crystal clear waters of the South Pacific to the lush rainforest and mountains, there is something for everyone. Visitors can explore the vibrant markets, take a boat tour to a nearby island, or go snorkeling and diving in the warm waters. There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and kayaking, as well as cultural experiences such as visiting local villages and learning about the traditional customs of the island. With its stunning scenery, friendly locals, and abundance of activities, Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu is a great destination for anyone looking for a unique and memorable vacation.
Can I rent a car at Port Vila cruise port?
1. Avis Vanuatu: Avis Vanuatu offers car rental services from the Port Vila Cruise Terminal. They offer a range of vehicles, including economy, compact, and luxury cars. They also offer 4WD vehicles for those wanting to explore the island.2. Budget Vanuatu: Budget Vanuatu offers car rental services from the Port Vila Cruise Terminal. They offer a range of vehicles, including economy, compact, and luxury cars. They also offer 4WD vehicles for those wanting to explore the island.3. Hertz Vanuatu: Hertz Vanuatu offers car rental services from the Port Vila Cruise Terminal. They offer a range of vehicles, including economy, compact, and luxury cars. They also offer 4WD vehicles for those wanting to explore the island.4. Thrifty Vanuatu: Thrifty Vanuatu offers car rental services from the Port Vila Cruise Terminal. They offer a range of vehicles, including economy, compact, and luxury cars. They also offer 4WD vehicles for those wanting to explore the island.
What is the WiFi situation at Port Vila cruise port?
The majority of cafes, restaurants, and hotels in Port Vila offer free wifi access. Additionally, the Port Vila Tourist Information Centre offers free wifi access to visitors.
Where is the cruise terminal at Port Vila cruise port?
The address of Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu cruise port is:Port Vila, Efate, VanuatuPO Box 607Port Vila, Vanuatu
What is the Port Vila Cruise Port cruise schedule?
Today there is 1 cruise ship in Port Vila: Quantum of the Seas — bringing an estimated 5,660 passengers and crew to port. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check Port Vila on any date.