A panoramic view of a tropical coastline with dense green jungle in the foreground, a small coastal town and port below, calm blue water stretching into the distance, and volcanic mountains rising under a cloudy sky.

Rabaul, Papua New Guinea

Cruises to Rabaul, Papua New Guinea

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Things to do in Rabaul

Jungles, volcanos and secret tunnels, oh my! Sail to Rabaul, which is home to a magnificent volcano, bubbling hot springs, sprawling jungles and WWII tunnels beneath it all. Whether you want to soak in the stunning scenery of Papua New Guinea or explore the area’s unique history during WWII and two volcanic eruptions, Rabaul is the place to go.

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  • A dark, cone-shaped volcano in Rabaul framed by a bright blue sky, with lush green slopes at its base and a wide expanse of ocean in the foreground.

    See the famous volcano, Mt. Tavurnur, which erupted and covered the city in ash in both 1937 and 1994.

  • A group of uniformed military personnel stand in formation at the Bita Paka War Cemetery in Rabaul, holding wreaths during a memorial ceremony. Tall trees cast dappled shade across the lawn and stone structures frame the scene.

    Visit Bita Paka War Cemetery where Allied soldiers from WWII that died in Papua New Guinea are buried.

  • A dimly lit rock tunnel in Rabaul with rough, jagged stone walls and a dirt floor, stretching into darkness and illuminated by warm yellow light.

    Explore underground tunnels the Japanese army built during WWII that are both well-preserved and an architectural feat.

  • Wide view of Rabaul’s coastline featuring bright blue water, green volcanic mountains and scattered clouds reflecting on the surface.

    Soak in stunning coastal views of the sea and the mountainous coast covered in lush greenery.

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Shore excursions to explore in Rabaul

Don’t stress over planning — experience the best Rabaul has to offer, stress-free, with Princess shore excursions. We’ll handle the details so you can relax and soak it all in.

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  • Upward view from the base of a tall coconut palm tree, showing its textured trunk, clusters of ripe coconuts and a wide spread of green fronds against a bright sky.

    Bita Paka War Cemetery, Kokopo War & Cultural Museum

    Step into Rabaul’s fascinating past by exploring fortified Japanese tunnels from WWII, the Bita Paka War Cemetery and the coconut plantation called Queen Emma's Steps. You’ll visit the Kokopo War & Cultural Museum packed full of WWII artifacts like an American B-17 bomber's nose cone. Walk through the magnificent engineering feat of the Japanese tunnels from WWII that sprawl for 300 miles and were designed to hold munitions stores, pathways, hospitals and more.

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  • A geothermal beach in Rabaul with bright orange mineral sand, steaming hot pools and a volcanic mountain range in the background next to a green hillside.

    Volcanological Observatory & North Coast

    See the area’s towering volcano, Mt. Tavurvur. Mt. Tavurnur erupted catastrophically in 1937 and 1994, and you can still see “bubbling beach,” where natural springs are heated by the volcanic steam underwater. This volcanic tour will also take you to a Tolai village where you can see how the local inhabitants have adapted to live in the shadow of an active volcano. Finally, you’ll go to the Rabaul Airport, which was destroyed in the 1994 eruption, where you can still see Japanese planes half-buried in ash.

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  • Traditional Rabaul dancers in large, expressive masks and leaf-covered costumes performing around a blazing fire at night, with sparks rising and flames illuminating the scene.

    Mask Festival on the Volcanic Ash Plains

    Immerse yourself in the rich Rabaul culture at a mask festival held on the volcanic ash plains. You’ll watch 90 minutes of vibrant dancing as local performers dress in traditional headdresses and perform dances and rhythmic chants. This festival also helps raise money for the community to cover health and educational needs.

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Explore itineraries with cruises to Rabaul

Whether you want to see beautiful jungles and towering mountains or want to explore WWII tunnels and an active volcano, Rabaul is the perfect destination. This stunning paradise is the perfect addition to a world cruise itinerary.

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36-Day Hawaii & South Pacific Crossing

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68-Day South Pacific - Los Angeles to Singapore

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Discover Rabaul on your next cruise

See the bubbling volcanic springs, stunning seaside views, historic tunnels underground and the towering volcano that locals have learned to live with. When you cruise to Rabaul, you’re stepping into paradise.

Cruises to Rabaul
Vertical view of Rabaul’s volcanic landscape showing orange mineral-rich hot springs in the foreground, pale blue water, and two green and dark ash-covered volcanic mountains rising under a cloudy sky.

Bright mineral pools lead to volcanic peaks for a scene that feels alive with heat and color.

A person wearing a brightly painted ceremonial mask with rainbow colors, a white trim and a pointed nose, topped by a large straw headdress decorated with feathers. Their chest is painted with red and white stripes, and they hold plants in both hands while standing outdoors against a backdrop of dry foliage.

Step into the rhythm of tradition as a vibrant masked dancer brings centuries-old ceremony to life.

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Cruises to Rabaul FAQs

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                     *The port location is subject to change. Please check itinerary details after you book for more information.

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