Things to do in Mystery Island
A half-mile off the coast of Aneityum, tucked away in the far-flung corner of the Vanuatu archipelago, sits an uninhabited blip called Mystery Island. It has no permanent roads, electricity or telephones, and yet somehow more life than most cities. Originally an Allied airstrip in World War II, it was kept secret for reasons of war-time security (which is how it got its name). Today, it’s less about secrecy and more about feeding fish in a coral reef, chatting with craftspeople from nearby Aneityum or wondering at how a whole island manages to exist without a single electrical outlet.
Shore excursions to explore in Mystery Island
Craving something curated? These excursions give you the best of Mystery Island with just the right amount of structure… and a whole lot of ‘wow.’
Explore itineraries with cruises to Mystery Island
Step off the tender and into literal paradise(of the unspoiled, Garden of Eden variety). Mystery Island welcomes you with live island music, a pop-up marketplace and water activities galore. Everything’s walkable and accessible, with paths winding past souvenir stalls, food huts and snorkeling, kayaking and exploring the island’s beaches just steps from the pier. As part of many Tahiti and South Pacific cruise itineraries, it’s the ideal stop for guests who want maximum reward with minimal fuss.
Discover Mystery Island on your next cruise
Mystery Island is a paradox in the best way: untouched but welcoming, tiny but packed, quiet but completely alive. The island’s protected marine sanctuary offers some of the clearest snorkeling in the South Pacific, while cultural encounters across the water in Aneityum add richness and context. With Princess Cruises® as your chariot, you’ll enjoy a seamless blend of onboard luxury and off-the-grid exploration.
Wander this breezy island path straight to the sparkling shoreline.
A bright tropical beach with clear turquoise water, white sand, and lush green trees, including a tall leaning palm stretching across a deep blue sky.
A couple stands together on the wooden deck of a Princess® cruise ship, gazing out at the open sea beneath a bright blue sky dotted with clouds.
Cut through the world’s waterways and experience the planet’s most exciting coastlines from a sea-side perspective; our fleet is your luxury-and-entertainment-packed transport to adventure.
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No two ships are identical, but they all share one mission: turn your vacation into a standing ovation.
Cruises to Mystery Island FAQs
*The port location is subject to change. Please check itinerary details after you book for more information.
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