Satellite view of Christmas Island

Christmas Island

Kiribati

Dive into pristine turquoise lagoons teeming with tropical fish and vibrant coral gardens untouched by mass tourism.

💱 Currency Australian Dollar (AUD)
🗣 Language Kiribati (Gilbertese), English
🕐 Time Zone LINT (UTC+14)
☀️ Best Time to Visit Sep–Oct
🚢 Typical Duration 34-46 nights
💰 Price Range From $5,644 pp
Port Type Port of Call
🚤 Tender Port Yes

A remote South Pacific atoll offering pristine coral reefs, exceptional diving opportunities, and authentic Kiribati culture for adventurous cruisers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Cruises that visit Christmas Island

Build Your Day in Christmas Island

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 3:00 PM
Usually about 7 hours ashore
Getting around:
Kiritimati Christmas Island Lodge is a real winner. Atoll · ★ 4.5 · 0k
St. Stanislas Church The best church in Europe. Catholic church · ★ 4.6 · 0k
Sunset Horizon Fishing Lodge Thanks to all peoples in kiribati they are so kind and good ♥️💚 Hotel · ★ 4.5 · 0k
London Kiritimati Hospital First time holidaying to the UK and I landed here. Hospital · ★ 4.3 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 2:10 AM Fri
Mum's Kitchen We had our New Year's Eve dinner here. Restaurant · ★ 4.3 · 0k 🕐 Open · Closes 8 PM
Wishing Star Looks like a pretty nice store for being what it is Supermarket · ★ 4.4 · 0k
Post Office Sending a postcard costs 1 dollar. Post office · ★ 4.6 · 0k 🕐 Closes soon · 7 PM
Betty Trading They have more fresh groceries than others. General store · ★ 4.8 · 0k
IKARI HOUSE LODGE Hotel · ★ 4.9 · 0k
Aisy’s store base Amazing views, beatiful scenery! Store · ★ 5 · 0k
#9 store There are several small shops under one roof. Convenience store · ★ 4.8 · 0k
Kiritimati Park No body's, except the tourist whose are coming from the huge cruse vessel Park · ★ 2.7 · 0k
Fodjofokua Banana Bakery Bakery · ★ 5 · 0k
Bathing Lagoon Water · ★ 5 · 0k
Boating Lagoon Water · ★ 5 · 0k
Reef Colors Supplier Pond fish supplier · ★ 5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8 AM Fri

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Christmas Island

About Christmas Island

Christmas Island stands as one of the Pacific's most intriguing cruise destinations, offering travelers a rare glimpse into an authentic and relatively untouched corner of the world. This remote atoll in Kiribati serves primarily as a port of call, making it an ideal stop on extended voyages that explore the vast reaches of the South Pacific. Holland America Line features this remarkable destination on select itineraries, typically as part of longer 34-night cruises that venture between major ports like Sydney, Auckland, and Papeete, Tahiti. The island's inclusion on these ambitious routes speaks to its unique appeal for adventurous cruisers seeking something genuinely off the beaten path.

When your ship arrives at Christmas Island, you'll discover a destination that rewards exploration with pristine natural beauty and genuine cultural encounters. The island's small but welcoming port facilities provide access to some remarkable experiences, from world-class diving and snorkeling in crystal-clear lagoon waters to encounters with the island's fascinating marine and birdlife. Passengers can expect to connect with the warm, hospitable local community and gain insight into traditional Kiribati culture. The peak months of September and October offer ideal weather conditions for enjoying the island's outdoor attractions and water-based activities.

Whether you're a seasoned cruiser seeking new horizons or an adventurer looking to explore one of Earth's most remote inhabited places, Christmas Island delivers an unforgettable Pacific experience that few travelers ever get to witness.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Witness Sacred Frigatebird Colonies

Christmas Island hosts one of the world's largest frigatebird sanctuaries, where thousands of magnificent red-footed boobies and frigatebirds nest in natural lagoon settings. Visit the protected wildlife areas near the port to observe these iconic seabirds in their natural habitat, a truly unforgettable spectacle found nowhere else on your cruise itinerary.

2

Taste Fresh Kiribati Seafood

Savor authentic Pacific cuisine at local waterfront restaurants serving freshly caught tuna, grouper, and coconut-based dishes unique to Kiribati. The island's seafood reflects centuries of traditional fishing practices, offering flavors you won't find anywhere else during your cruise journey through the South Pacific.

3

Explore Pristine Lagoon Waters

Dive or snorkel in Christmas Island's crystal-clear turquoise lagoon, teeming with tropical fish, coral gardens, and vibrant marine life. The calm, protected waters near the port provide an accessible paradise for both experienced divers and casual snorkelers seeking an authentic Pacific island experience.

4

Browse Local Artisan Markets

Discover handcrafted souvenirs at the island's markets, featuring traditional woven baskets, coconut-shell jewelry, and local handicrafts made by Kiribati artisans. These authentic pieces tell stories of island culture and make meaningful mementos of your rare visit to this remote Pacific destination.

5

Learn Kiribati's Colonial Heritage

Visit the island's historical sites and small museums documenting Christmas Island's fascinating past as a British possession and its significance during World War II. Walk through the port area to discover remnants of colonial architecture and learn how this remote atoll shaped Pacific history.

Cruise Lines at Christmas Island

Cruises Departing From Christmas Island

Cruises Visiting Christmas Island

Ship Schedule at Christmas Island

Christmas Island Location

Other Cruise Ports in Kiribati

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Christmas Island located?

It is located in Kiribati, at latitude 1.872135 and longitude -157.427812.

What is the port type on Christmas Island?

The port type is a port (as opposed to a marina or cargo facility).

What is the alternate name for Christmas Island?

Alternate name is Kiritimati.

What country does Christmas Island belong to?

Kiribati.