Honiara — The Solomon Islands is reporting increased cruise activity, with 2026–2027 schedules indicating growth in ship arrivals and a rise in expedition-style itineraries.
The update comes as government and tourism officials attend Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami for the first time, signalling a push to strengthen international industry links.
Recent cruise calls have included vessels from Swan Hellenic, Holland America Line, Oceania Cruises, Ponant and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, alongside expedition voyages departing from Honiara.
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| Ponant Exploration's Paul Gaugin berthed in Honiara (supplied) |
Further arrivals are scheduled through 2026, including ships from Ponant, Heritage Expeditions, Royal Caribbean Group and Seabourn Cruise Line, with continued deployments confirmed for 2027.
Infrastructure upgrades are supporting the growth, including the Honiara Cruise Passenger Terminal, opened in December 2024. The SBD$100 million facility provides direct berthing, passenger processing areas and access to central Honiara and nearby attractions.
Key shore experiences include World War II sites, reef snorkelling and cultural tours, which form part of the destination’s appeal to expedition operators.
Tourism officials said the Solomon Islands is increasingly attracting higher-spending expedition travellers. Data cited from the International Finance Corporation and South Pacific Tourism Organisation indicates these visitors typically spend US$100–150 per person onshore, with a strong preference for local tours and handicrafts.
Based on current estimates, around 3,000 expedition passengers annually could generate approximately US$375,000 in direct local expenditure, with spending distributed across local operators and communities.
Officials said the sector is positioned for further growth, supported by infrastructure investment and increasing inclusion in regional cruise itineraries.
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