Port information & tips for Rabaul
Rabaul is a fascinating gem on the island of New Britain in Papua New Guinea and impresses with its dramatic location within a massive, water-filled caldera. The atmosphere is characterized by a unique blend of untouched nature, volcanic activity, and a profound history of the Second World War. Visitors can marvel at the smoking volcano Mount Tavurvur while simultaneously exploring historical sites such as Admiral Yamamoto's bunker or the impressive Japanese tunnels. Cruise ships dock at the centrally located Rabaul Wharf, which is situated right in the heart of the bay. Thanks to this prime location, travelers can reach the main highlights and the city center within a few minutes comfortably on foot or by local transportation.
Rabaul, a fascinating cruise port in Papua New Guinea, is primarily accessible by air for travelers from the DACH region. The ship docks directly in picturesque Simpson Harbour, a natural deep-water port near the remains of the old town. There are two berths capable of accommodating passenger ships, although amenities in the immediate port area are limited.
Airplane
Travel to the Rabaul cruise port typically goes through Tokua Airport (RAB), also known as Rabaul Airport, which serves Kokopo and Rabaul. There are no direct flights from the DACH region to Rabaul, so the route usually leads via an international airport such as Port Moresby (POM), the capital of Papua New Guinea. From there, airlines like Air Niugini or PNG Air offer regular domestic flights to Tokua Airport (RAB). The flight time from Port Moresby to Rabaul is approximately 1 hour and 59 minutes.
Transfer & Shuttle
Tokua Airport (RAB) is located about 28.7 kilometers southeast of Rabaul city center, with a travel time of approximately 39 to 41 minutes. For transfers to the port or hotel, taxis or pre-booked transfers are recommended, as public transport such as PMVs (Public Motor Vehicles) is less suitable for tourists and taxis are not always readily available. Some hotels in the vicinity, particularly in Kokopo, also offer their own shuttle services, enabling a convenient onward journey.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long journey and the necessary connecting flights, it is strongly advised for guests from the DACH region to arrive in Rabaul at least one day before embarkation. Hotels can be found in Rabaul itself as well as in nearby Kokopo, which serves as the administrative center and is about 30 to 45 minutes by car from the port. Some accommodations, such as the Rapopo Plantation Resort or the Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort, are only a few kilometers from the airport and often offer airport transfers, guaranteeing a relaxed start to your cruise adventure.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the trip: For shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
Rabaul, a fascinating cruise port in Papua New Guinea, is primarily accessible by air for travelers from the DACH region. The ship docks directly in picturesque Simpson Harbour, a natural deep-water port near the remains of the old town. There are two berths capable of accommodating passenger ships, although amenities in the immediate port area are limited.
Airplane
Travel to the Rabaul cruise port typically goes through Tokua Airport (RAB), also known as Rabaul Airport, which serves Kokopo and Rabaul. There are no direct flights from the DACH region to Rabaul, so the route usually leads via an international airport such as Port Moresby (POM), the capital of Papua New Guinea. From there, airlines like Air Niugini or PNG Air offer regular domestic flights to Tokua Airport (RAB). The flight time from Port Moresby to Rabaul is approximately 1 hour and 59 minutes.
Transfer & Shuttle
Tokua Airport (RAB) is located about 28.7 kilometers southeast of Rabaul city center, with a travel time of approximately 39 to 41 minutes. For transfers to the port or hotel, taxis or pre-booked transfers are recommended, as public transport such as PMVs (Public Motor Vehicles) is less suitable for tourists and taxis are not always readily available. Some hotels in the vicinity, particularly in Kokopo, also offer their own shuttle services, enabling a convenient onward journey.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long journey and the necessary connecting flights, it is strongly advised for guests from the DACH region to arrive in Rabaul at least one day before embarkation. Hotels can be found in Rabaul itself as well as in nearby Kokopo, which serves as the administrative center and is about 30 to 45 minutes by car from the port. Some accommodations, such as the Rapopo Plantation Resort or the Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort, are only a few kilometers from the airport and often offer airport transfers, guaranteeing a relaxed start to your cruise adventure.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the trip: For shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
The Port of Rabaul is located in the heart of Simpson Harbour and, thanks to its location, provides direct access to the historical sites as well as the natural beauty of the volcanic region.
On Foot
The center of Rabaul and the colorful local market are easily accessible in about ten to fifteen minutes on foot. The path follows the coastal road and simultaneously offers impressive views of the surrounding volcanoes.
PMVs (Public Motor Vehicles)
The local minibuses known as PMVs are the main mode of transport and stop in the immediate vicinity of the port area. These vehicles offer an authentic and affordable connection to Kokopo and the surrounding villages of East New Britain Province.
Taxi
Taxis and private transport providers are available directly at the exit of the port terminal. The drivers also often offer guided tours to the Japanese tunnels from World War II or to the foot of the active Tavurvur volcano.
To make the most of the fascinating combination of primal natural power and the vibrant everyday life of Papua New Guinea, an exploration of the spectacular volcanic backdrop and the cultural heart in neighboring Kokopo is recommended.
Mount Tavurvur & Sulfur Springs
The monumental silhouette of the active volcano forms the impressive centerpiece of the bay and, thanks to the accessible ash fields and steaming thermal springs, enables an incomparable natural experience directly against the backdrop of the harbor.
Kokopo Market
As a pulsating center of daily life, this market impresses with its exotic variety of fruits and handicrafts; furthermore, the location is ideal for authentic encounters with the warm hospitality of the local population.
Japanese Submarine Base & Karavia Bay
The impressive historical tunnel systems are perfectly embedded into the tropical coastline and offer a captivating look into the region's eventful history; additionally, the adjacent bay with its clear water invites a picturesque exploration.
Mount Tavurvur and the Hot Springs
The majestic Mount Tavurvur volcano and the hot springs bubbling at the base of the crater are easily accessible from the port in about a twenty-minute drive and offer an absolutely unique natural experience in the midst of a fascinating, ash-covered lunar landscape. This location is perfectly suited for cruise guests to marvel at the region's powerful geological history up close and also observe the rare phenomenon of boiling seawater at the "Bubbling Beaches." Thanks to the accompaniment of local guides, you will learn exciting details about life in the shadow of the volcano and enjoy an impressive atmosphere that is ideal for extraordinary photographs. It is best to plan your visit for the early morning to take advantage of the cooler hours and return to the ship on time and relaxed after an impressive exploration.
The journey back to the port of Rabaul in Simpson Harbour is straightforward thanks to the short distances to the old town and well-organized excursions for cruise guests. If traveling from Kokopo, located about 20 kilometers away, plan for a time buffer of approximately 45 minutes to enjoy the tropical scenery at a relaxed pace.
Taxi and Organized Transfers
Classic metered taxis are rare in Rabaul, but you can find reliable drivers and private minibuses for the return transfer at the Rabaul Yacht Club and Rabaul Market. Due to close coordination with the cruise lines, organized transfer buses often wait at the central marketplace in Kokopo to bring you comfortably and directly back to the ship area.
Local Shuttles and PMVs
The colorful PMVs (Public Motor Vehicles) are an authentic way to make the return journey and run regularly on the route between Kokopo and the Rabaul Market. Additionally, many ships provide free shuttle buses that commute between the sights and the port pier, guaranteeing a timely return.
On Foot
From the local market in Rabaul or the nearby Yacht Club, you can walk back to the pier in just 5 to 10 minutes via flat paths. The short trail is easy to find and is additionally protected on port days thanks to a local security presence, allowing you to complete the final meters to the terminal safely and comfortably.
