A remote island famed for its mysterious Moai statues.
4.9/5 ⭐Google 600+ Reviews | A+ Better Business Bureau
Overview
Easter Island (Rapa Nui in the native Polynesian language) is a remote volcanic island in the southeastern Pacific Ocean, administratively part of Chile. It is one of the most isolated inhabited islands in the world, renowned globally for its enigmatic moai statues – colossal monolithic human figures carved by the ancient Rapa Nui people. These iconic statues, along with the island's unique culture, ancient ceremonial sites, and dramatic volcanic landscapes, have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. Beyond the archaeological wonders, Easter Island offers stunning coastal scenery, volcanic craters, and a warm Polynesian welcome.
Easter Island is a highly sought-after tender port for trans-Pacific and world cruises, attracting visitors with its profound historical mysteries and unparalleled cultural significance. Cruise ships typically anchor in Hanga Roa Bay and tender passengers ashore to the small dock in Hanga Roa, the island's only town. Due to its remote location and sometimes challenging sea conditions, landing via tender is not always guaranteed. A visit to Easter Island offers cruise passengers an extraordinary opportunity to delve into one of the world's greatest archaeological puzzles, experience a vibrant Polynesian culture, and witness the awe-inspiring presence of the moai.
Witness the most iconic and visually stunning site on Easter Island: Ahu Tongariki. This is the largest restored ceremonial platform, featuring 15 massive moai standing proudly with their backs to the sea, dramatically silhouetted against the sky, especially at sunrise.
Tip: This site is a must-see. Many tours prioritize it, and for good reason. Its scale and setting are breathtaking.
Visit Rano Raraku, a volcanic crater that served as the quarry where nearly all the moai were carved. Here, you'll find hundreds of statues in various stages of completion, some still embedded in the rock, others partially buried, offering incredible insight into their creation and the sheer ambition of the Rapa Nui people.
Tip: This is arguably the most fascinating site on the island. Wear comfortable shoes as there's a good amount of walking, and prepare for uneven terrain.
Journey to Orongo, a unique stone village perched on the rim of the Rano Kau volcano crater, overlooking both the ocean and the crater lake. This sacred site was the ceremonial center for the Birdman Cult, an important part of Rapa Nui culture after the moai-building era. Explore its distinctive stone houses and numerous petroglyphs.
Tip: The views from Orongo are spectacular. This site offers a different historical perspective than the moai sites.
Unwind on the beautiful white sands of Anakena Beach, a picturesque spot fringed with palm trees and with calm, clear waters perfect for swimming. This beach is not only idyllic but also historically significant as it is believed to be the landing site of Hotu Matu'a, the legendary first king of Easter Island, and features several restored moai on Ahu Nau Nau.
Tip: This is a great place to combine sightseeing with some relaxation. Remember your swimsuit and sun protection.
Explore the Ahu Tahai archaeological complex, located conveniently close to Hanga Roa. This site features three main ceremonial platforms, including Ahu Tahai with its single restored moai (the only one with eyes), Ahu Ko Te Riku with a moai wearing a pukao (topknot), and Ahu Vai Uri with five moai.
Tip: Tahai is excellent for sunset views and provides a good introduction to the moai without requiring extensive travel from Hanga Roa.
Stroll through Hanga Roa, the island's capital and only town. Explore local shops selling Rapa Nui crafts, enjoy fresh seafood at a restaurant, and visit the small but informative Rapa Nui Museum, which provides context on the island's history, culture, and archaeology.
Tip: This is where you'll find local amenities. Cash (Chilean Pesos or USD) is recommended for smaller purchases, as credit card acceptance can be limited.
Aboard
Silver Cloud
From
Valparaiso (Santiago), Chile
1 Sailing
Mar 10, 2027
Aboard
Silver Cloud
From
Valparaiso (Santiago), Chile
1 Sailing
Mar 10, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Silver Cloud
From
Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia
1 Sailing
Oct 23, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Silver Dawn
From
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
1 Sailing
Jan 6, 2026
Aboard
Seabourn Quest
From
Callao (Lima), Peru
1 Sailing
Jan 17, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Volendam
From
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
1 Sailing
Jan 5, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
San Antonio, Santiago, Chile
2 Sailings
Apr 2, 2026 - Apr 7, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Darwin, Australia
1 Sailing
Aug 26, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Broome, Australia
1 Sailing
Aug 16, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Buenos Aires, Argentina
1 Sailing
Mar 23, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Our expert consultants and customer service teams are standing by to help with all of your cruising needs.
I was having some trouble finding the right cruise for the right price as a single traveler, but thanks to [our Cruise Expert] I was able to find it with Cruise Web. Thank you very much [our Cruise Expert]!
Camille G.
We have worked with [our Cruise Expert] several times and she makes it so easy and a pleasure to work with. She is very knowledgeable.
Linda F.
[Our Cruise Expert] was informative and very pleasant to work with. I'm not familiar with booking travel online and he made my experience pleasant.
Sharon E.
I would like to mention that for many years I really appreciate to have [our Cruise Expert] taking care of my cruises in the states. So, i'm glad to give five stars for him
Rudi D.
I am working with [our Cruise Expert] as my travel agent...he has been very helpful...he is very informative and knowledgeable about the places that I want to go on my Cruise....I would use [our Cruise Expert] and Cruise Web again to book another cruise...thank you...
Priscilla B.
[Our Cruise Expert] does an exceptional job of planning (with you) and coordinating a trip of your dreams! I can't wait to get started on the next one.
Sheralyn H.
Great working with [our Cruise Expert]! He was a tremendous help and steered us in the right direction every time! Helped us make memories for a lifetime!
Wendy F.
[Our Cruise Expert] always works hard to secure the bookings we have chosen and guides us through the process. She is always available to help and her advise is spot on.
James C.
We are residents in another country, and have used [our Cruise Expert] for years as we try to cruise around the entire world. She offers great service and stellar communication.
Dave O.
[Our Cruise Expert]does a wonderful job for me. I have had no glitches and I can count on things running smoothly when [our Cruise Expert] makes my arrangements.
Barbara H.
