Vava’u, Tonga

One of the easternmost countries in the world, nudging the International Date Line, the Kingdom of Tonga was never colonized by Europeans, a distinction it shares with no other South Pacific nation. As a result, today it is the oldest and last remaining Polynesian monarchy, and its culture remains strong, even in the face of modernization.

In addition to being a cultural capital, it is a fantastic place to view a wide array of wildlife, especially in the crystal-clear lagoon, where divers can see to a depth of 130 feet. Species include giant clams, manta rays, sea turtles, spinner dolphins, more than 100 species of colorful tropical fish, and—between July and October—humpback whales.

A climb to the top of Mt. Talau, the highest point on Vava’u, offers unparalleled views of the surrounding Tongan islands.

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Vava’u, Tonga

Click to enlarge

The m/s Paul Gauguin anchored in the distance with palm fronds in the foreground.

Shore Excursions at this port

Below is a list of those shore excursions previously offered in this port. For information on which shore excursions will be offered on a particular cruise, please reference the specific itinerary of that cruise.

Beach Combing & Snorkeling

Duration:

3.5 Hours - $59

From Halaevalu Wharf, you will be travelling in non-air-conditioned 'island style' minivans to the beautiful Tongan Beach Resort, via the township of Neiafu, through picturesque little villages, and past a vanilla plantation, an important source of income for the island. You will have approximately two hours of free time to relax in the sun, swim and snorkel. There are a limited number of sun chairs and umbrellas available on the beach. The beach is part sand and part rocks. Resort services and activities are available at an additional cost.

Please note: Bring your snorkeling equipment from the ship, swimsuit, towel and reef/water shoes to wear while swimming as there's coral underfoot. Insect repellent is also recommended.

Excursion Code:

VAV-005

Ene'io Tongan Feast

Duration:

4 Hours - $63

Get to see Vava'u with its natural and beautiful adornments in the west side of the island.

You will travel through township to Tailulu College which is a scenic spot to view Mount Talau, some of the scattered islands, Port of Refuge. The Island Feast with Cultural Floorshow consists of avariety of local foods, international cuisines, local desserts and seasonal fruits highlighted by a group of locals performing traditional songs and dances. The lunch menu offers simple island foods, such as roast suckling pig, chicken, fish, lu pulu (corned beef cooked with young taro leaves and coconut cream), taro, kumara (Tongan sweet potatoes), and seasonal tropical fruits: papaya, watermelon, pineapple, and bananas. Transportation is by non-air-conditioned island bus and minivan which are not equipped with PA systems. Some roads are unpaved and rutted; the ride may be bumpy.

Please note: Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable flat-soled shoes and swimming/beach attire with a cover-up, along with clothing suited to the weather. Bring a towel, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent and a bottle of water. Due to the coral reef's proximity to the beach, guests are encouraged to swim with footwear (washable shoes or aqua socks). Swimming is ideal during high tide only.

Excursion Code:

VAV-3868

Polynesian Cultural Tour

Duration:

3.5 Hours - $59

Board an island bus at Halaevalu Wharf and proceed to Eneio Botanical Garden. This tour offers a truly interactive experience which allows you to relive Polynesian yesterday and experience native lifestyles through guided, on-site, live demonstration and gentle strolling tours amongst the lush tropical paradise of the stunning and only Botanical Garden in Tonga. You will be fascinated with the various demonstrations which includes the making of clothing from bark, along with the creation of jewelry and mats from pandanus leaves, the making of milk and products from coconuts, the making of beverages from plant roots, the production of essence from vanilla beans, and juice from nonu fruits. This guided tour highlights the owner's efforts in conservation and preservation of different plant species since 1972, and is the only opportunity to discover the splendid collection of plants, mature trees and flowering shrubs in this garden. Return to Halaevalu Wharf via Tailulu College, Pouono Cemetery and the Catholic Cathedral Church for your last scenic view and photo-stop.

Please note: Transportation is by non-air-conditioned island bus/minivan without PA systems or microphones. Some roads are unpaved and rutted; the ride can be bumpy. We recommend bringing insect repellent, comfortable flat-soled shoes, sunglasses, a hat, a small bottle of water and clothing suited to weather conditions.

Excursion Code:

VAV-3867

SCUBA 1 Tank - Sea Fans or Split Rock

Duration:

2 Hours - $135

Divers will meet the local dive masters at the ship`s marina platform and board their dive boat before enjoying a very nice scenic ride along the coast and mushroom shaped coral islets and the way to the dive site. The dive site will be determined on the spot depending on divers` experience and sea condition. You will enjoy the very clear water of Vava`u and the topography including underwater caverns and cave systems, where divers can surface in different chambers and encounter the marine life that inhabits these areas. Large sea fans and feather stars can be found on many of the dive sites. Dives are guided by a local dive master and there is no reference line going down. This dive is suitable for certified divers with some experience as depth can be around 90 feet.

For more information about our dive program, visit www.pgcruises.com/scuba.

Excursion Code:

VAV-3866

SCUBA 2 Tanks - Sea Fans & Split Rock

Duration:

5 Hours - $215

Enjoy stunning underwater views as you make your way to the outer reefs of Vava'u. Vava'u offers a vast array of year-round diving for all levels of experience. Topographically, the islands of Vava'u offer magnificent underwater caverns and cave systems, where divers can surface in different chambers and encounter the marine life that inhabits these areas. Soft coral walls and large sea fans can be found on many of the dive sites, Your surface interval may be spent making your way to the second dive site or enjoying some of the many shallow reefs nearby.

For more information about our dive program, visit www.pgcruises.com/scuba.

Excursion Code:

VAV-3865

Swallow Cave and Island Getaway

Duration:

3.5 Hours - $92

Vava'u's big island is set in a cluster of nearly 40 smaller islands. The only harbor providing access to Neiafu is considered one of the most picturesque in the Pacific. Your tour will consist of a boat cruise that winds through the harbor to the island of Kapa. The main attraction of Kapa Island is beautiful Swallow's Cave which perforates a cliff at its northern end. The cave is in fact inhabited not by swallows but by hundreds of swift lets that flit about in the dim light and nest in the darkness of the cave's upper reaches. You can only view the swallow cave from outside from your boat unless weather permits you to swim into the cave. Afterwards you will continue to Falevai Mui Houma Beach. With its crystal blue waters and perfect beach, it is one of the most exquisite places on Vava'u Island. You will have time to enjoy a swim in the warm, clear ocean or simply relax on the white, sandy beach.

Please note: Those guests wishing to swim, please bring your swimsuit, cover-up and reef shoes to wear while swimming. Also recommended: snorkel equipment, insect repellent, towel, sun protection and bottled water. The tour is not recommended for guests in wheelchairs. Guests must be in good physical condition. There is no bar, restaurant, sunchairs etc., available on the island. Tour may be cancelled due to weather conditions.

Excursion Code:

VAV-2480