Rabaul

Cruise ships berth close to the town centre. If the dock is already occupied, passengers may instead travel ashore by tender.

The terminal stands very near central Rabaul. Downtown shops, markets and services are only a short walk or a drive of a few minutes from the port.

Rabaul is a popular visitor destination for SCUBA diving, snorkelling sites and its spectacular harbour. For much of the 20th century it was the leading commercial and travel centre in Papua New Guinea, and indeed the wider South Pacific, until the volcanic eruptions of 1994. Several diving operators remain based there.

Still-active Mt. Tavurvur makes a highly interesting trekking excursion. Other attractions include innumerable WWII locations scattered with fascinating remains from the well-known Battle of Rabaul in 1942. The area is also excellent for game fishing, but scuba diving, particularly among wrecks in the dramatic harbour, receives the greatest attention.

If the volcano is active, local people will take visitors right to the edge... be aware that this is entirely at your own risk. Alternatively, climb to the vulcanology station for a lovely but more distant view of both the harbour and volcano.

Local people ask passengers not to give money to children who politely "escort" them around. Offer a cold drink, coloured pencils or something similar instead. The community is very dignified and does not want its children "begging" from passengers, so respect these wishes. A fair number of local residents speak very good English.

Visit the market to experience local life and see numerous root starches for sale, delightfully woven baskets and 'belims', beautifully patterned, colourful shopping bags that demand attention. Absorb the surreal atmosphere while relaxing and letting your imagination reconstruct the dramatic events that occurred here.

Local currency: kina (PGK).

Official languages are English, Tok Pisin and Hiri Motu.