Cruise port Apia
Info for port Apia on 28 Jun 2027
Port information & tips for Apia
Apia is the vibrant heart of Samoa and welcomes visitors with the unmistakable South Sea charm on the island of Upolu. The capital impresses with its lush tropical vegetation, colorful markets, and the warm hospitality of the locals, while the picturesque harbor bay ensures a relaxed atmosphere. Highlights in the immediate vicinity include the colorful Palolo Deep Marine Reserve for snorkeling and the magnificent Immaculate Conception Cathedral right on the waterfront promenade. Cruise ships dock at Matautu Wharf, which is located at the eastern end of the bay. Thanks to the ideal location, travelers can reach the city center after a short, approximately 15-minute walk along the coastal road or conveniently within a few minutes by taxi.
Apia, the charming capital of Samoa on the island of Upolu, welcomes cruise ships at the centrally located Matautu Wharf right in Apia Harbor. The port serves as the most important hub for international arrivals and, thanks to its location near the city, provides direct access to the island's sights.
Airplane
Arrival from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland is via Faleolo International Airport (APW), located about 35 kilometers west of Apia. Since flight connections from Europe usually lead through hubs such as Auckland, Brisbane, Sydney, or Nadi, travelers reach the island after a longer flight duration and land comfortably at the modern international terminal.
Transfer & Taxi
From Faleolo Airport, the well-developed West Coast Road leads directly to the Port of Apia in approximately 45 to 60 minutes travel time. Travelers can choose between licensed taxis, private shuttle providers, or the transfer buses provided by the cruise lines, which ensure a direct connection to the ship.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the large time difference and the long distance from the DACH region, an arrival at least two days before the planned embarkation is recommended. Many hotels in Apia and along the north coast are geared towards cruise guests and often offer a comfortable luggage service as well as organized transfers to Matautu Wharf.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents will usually provide you with a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory 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.
Also during the voyage: For shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always observe the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
Apia, the charming capital of Samoa on the island of Upolu, welcomes cruise ships at the centrally located Matautu Wharf right in Apia Harbor. The port serves as the most important hub for international arrivals and, thanks to its location near the city, provides direct access to the island's sights.
Airplane
Arrival from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland is via Faleolo International Airport (APW), located about 35 kilometers west of Apia. Since flight connections from Europe usually lead through hubs such as Auckland, Brisbane, Sydney, or Nadi, travelers reach the island after a longer flight duration and land comfortably at the modern international terminal.
Transfer & Taxi
From Faleolo Airport, the well-developed West Coast Road leads directly to the Port of Apia in approximately 45 to 60 minutes travel time. Travelers can choose between licensed taxis, private shuttle providers, or the transfer buses provided by the cruise lines, which ensure a direct connection to the ship.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the large time difference and the long distance from the DACH region, an arrival at least two days before the planned embarkation is recommended. Many hotels in Apia and along the north coast are geared towards cruise guests and often offer a comfortable luggage service as well as organized transfers to Matautu Wharf.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents will usually provide you with a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory 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.
Also during the voyage: For shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always observe the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
From the modern cruise terminal in Matautu, you can reach the vibrant center of Apia comfortably and flexibly via various routes.
Taxi
Numerous official taxis await you directly at the port exit and will take you to the city's most important sights or markets in just a few minutes. The drivers are also excellent connoisseurs of the island and are happy to offer round trips to the cultural highlights in the surrounding area.
Local Buses
The traditional, brightly colored wooden buses are a landmark of Samoa and run regularly between the central marketplaces and the outskirts. Thanks to these authentic means of transportation, you can reach more remote coastal sections or traditional villages affordably and atmospherically.
On Foot
The city center of Apia can be reached via the picturesque waterfront Beach Road in about 15 to 20 minutes. This walk allows you to get your first impressions of the coastline and leads you directly past significant government buildings as well as inviting cafes.
To make the most of Samoa's magic during a short layover, a combination of the vibrant city center of Apia and the fascinating cultural treasures in the immediate vicinity is recommended.
Samoa Cultural Village & Maketi Fou
In the heart of the capital, visitors experience the authentic Samoan way of life through traditional crafts and dances and find a colorful variety of tropical fruits and local handicrafts at the nearby Maketi Fou central market.
Robert Louis Stevenson Museum
The magnificent former home of the famous author is nestled in a paradisiacal garden at the foot of Mount Vaea and, thanks to its short distance from the port, is a perfect destination for history-minded explorers.
Palolo Deep Marine Reserve
This protected underwater paradise is located in close proximity to the cruise terminal and offers ideal conditions for a first-class snorkeling experience right at the city's doorstep thanks to its crystal-clear lagoon and colorful coral reefs.
Robert Louis Stevenson Museum (Vailima)
The Robert Louis Stevenson Museum is located only about fifteen minutes by taxi from the port and offers fascinating insights into the life of the famous author amidst a magnificent tropical garden. Thanks to the guided tours through the lovingly restored manor house, you will experience the colonial charm of old Samoa and also enjoy wide views over the coast and your ship in the harbor from the verandas. Ideally, start your excursion in the early morning to explore the extensive grounds of the estate at pleasant temperatures and return to the harbor relaxed at noon, with a short stop at the colorful Fugalei Market for local souvenirs being a perfect addition.
Returning to Matautu Wharf is very straightforward and safe thanks to the port's central location and the warm hospitality in Apia.
Taxi
Taxis are present everywhere in the city and can easily be found at the central Clock Tower or the bustling Fugalei Market. Additionally, well-known hotels such as the Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey's Hotel right on the waterfront always have vehicles ready to bring guests back to the ship comfortably and in a very short time.
Shuttle Bus and Local Transport
Most cruise lines provide a shuttle service that runs regularly between the tourist information center on Beach Road and the port terminal. Those who wish to arrange their return trip more individually can use the colorful local buses at the central bus station, which are easily recognizable due to their eye-catching appearance and offer an authentic ride to the pier.
On Foot
The walk from the city center along the picturesque Beach Road leads directly to the port entrance and is easy to manage due to the flat route. Simply orient yourself by the coastline and enjoy the direct path to Matautu Wharf, which is always safe due to its proximity to the city center and the clear street layout.
In port on 28 Jun 2027
