The Department of Tourism has confirmed that Carnival Cruises has diverted its scheduled port call to Port Vila on June 8, due to ongoing demolition works within the Central Business District (CBD).

Port Vila Cruise Resumption Postponed – But Tourism Readiness is Ongoing

The CEO of the Vanuatu Tourism Office , Adela Aru, has confirmed that, while Port Vila is actively preparing for the return of cruise tourism, the first anticipated cruise ship arrival on June 8 has been postponed by Carnival Cruises due to ongoing demolition works in the Central Business District (CBD).

The Department of Tourism has acknowledged the situation, stating that the current works have disrupted traffic and would negatively affect the passenger experience. Director of Tourism, Paul Pio, noted that the Government is addressing access challenges with support from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities (MIPU), which is preparing to deploy a temporary tender barge, similar to what was used successfully in 2023.

Meanwhile, the Vanuatu Maritime Safety Authority (VMSA) and Department of Ports and Harbours are working to ensure the seafront meets international port security standards under the Cruise Resumption Management Plan.

Tourism Sector Still Moving Forward

Despite the postponement, the Tourism Office remains confident and continues to prepare for the cruise return:

• 80% of tourism businesses in Port Vila and Efate are now operational post-earthquake, including top attractions such as Blue Lagoon, Etmat Bay, waterfalls, cultural villages, and snorkeling spots.
• A Cruise Welkam Program is in place, featuring awareness sessions with operators, a CBD cleanup, cultural entertainment, and a billboard showcasing ready businesses.
• Tourism Ambassadors will assist during cruise visits, and hospitality staff are being encouraged to uphold Vanuatu’s strong reputation for friendliness.
• The VTO will roll out promotional video blogs to spotlight cruise-ready businesses and reinforce the message that Vanuatu is open for business.

“Although the June 8 visit will not go ahead, cruise partners have indicated their return later in the year,” the CEO stated. “We remain committed to ensuring a world-class experience for all our visitors.”

Vanuatu was recently ranked among Lonely Planet’s Top 10 countries to visit in 2025, and the message to global travellers is clear: “We are resilient, we are recovering, and we are ready to welcome you with open arms.”