Calendar of cruiseships
Frequently Asked Questions
Most calls are a single day in port, not an overnight stay. That is enough for a town walk, a booked tour or a nearby beach, but not for a second island. Port Vila, Mystery Island on Aneityum, and Santo are the usual stops, depending on the ship's itinerary. Be back at the tender or gangway with time to spare.
In Port Vila, markets, a harbour or island snorkel, Mele Cascades or a short cultural visit fit a ship day well. Mystery Island is about swimming and a simple village shoreline; Santo suits a blue-hole or beach excursion. Book popular tours early, especially when several ships are in. Keep the plan close to port so weather or traffic cannot strand you.
In Port Vila you can walk into town, use a taxi or minibus, and explore without a ship excursion if you watch the clock. Mystery Island and some Santo landings are more contained, with less independent transport. Carry Vatu, agree taxi fares, and do not cut the all-aboard time fine. Independent is possible in Vila; elsewhere a booked tour is simpler.