Port Vila, Vanuatu, Port of Call Information

The view from a cruise ship in dock at Port Vila

Port Vila, on the island of Efate, is the capital of Vanuatu. Several cruise lines visit here on their South Pacific island itineraries. You're sure to be given a warm welcome when you arrive - the people of Vanuatu are reputed to be among the friendliest in the world!
   Your cruise ship will dock at the commercial wharf which is about 3 km from Port Vila township. Lines of taxis and minibuses wait near the pier gates as the ship arrives. A band of musicians are on hand to sing to you as you leave the port.
   By the dock is a large market with a lot of stalls lined up on both sides of the flat land beside the sea. Local people sell handicrafts, sarongs, jewellery, brightly coloured shirts and blouses, and children's toys.
   To go into Port Vila township, you can get a taxi which will be a set price for the vehicle no matter how many people travel in it, or a minibus which is cheaper but will only leave when all seats are full. The trip into town along the Lini Highway takes 10 to 15 minutes. Drivers accept Australian dollars for the fares.
   If you decide to walk, make sure you have sunscreen and water with you. It is so hot and humid that I don't advise it. It's so much easier and more pleasant to have a ride.
   

Looking back from Port Vila town to the cruise ship dock

To get back to the ship after your outing in Port Vila, either hail a taxi on the street or go to the little square by the Post Office where the minibuses park. The minibuses have to be full before they will leave town but there is seating under shady trees while you wait.