Christmas Island, Australia 

This nature lover's paradise has unique species of flora and fauna including the famous Christmas Island Red Crabs. Hear the story of their annual migration to the ocean to spawn, which has been described as one of the wonders of the natural world*. There's great snorkelling close to shore or inland waterfalls to explore. (*Migration takes place at the beginning of the wet season usually October/November).

Some of the parks’ highlights include Hugh’s Waterfall, taking in the panoramic views from Margaret Knoll or being startled by the Blowholes. It is recommended that you visit the Tourism Association or take organised transport to any National Park areas as most are a fair walk or require a 4WD.

The abundance of wildlife includes 20 different land crabs and the red crab migration, that occurs at the beginning of the wet season (usually October - December), has become world famous. No where else in the world do crabs occur in these numbers and it is estimated 60 million live on the island.

Bird watching is another highlight as Christmas Island is a tropical seabird breeding station; it is estimated around 80,000 seabirds nest here annually, plus there are 7 land birds endemic to the Island. For bird watching close to the ship, a short stroll to the Flying Fish Cove lookout allows you to see the exquisite Golden Bosun Birds.

If your heart is set on meeting marine life, exploring the waters surrounding the Island is not to be missed. There is an abundance of tropical fish, which you can see in only a few meters of water. Daring divers can cruise the drop-off which plunges dramatically and at certain times of the year, you can see whale sharks and spinner dolphins. A great place to swim and snorkel is at Flying Fish Cove, adjacent to the port. The ‘Cove’ offers great shore dives and has some of the best diversity and abundance of tropical fish anywhere. There are picnic facilities, public toilets and showers.

Christmas Island is also a popular fishing spot, it is possible to fish for Sailfish, Tuna and Wahoo, and rumour has it that the fish here are big, very, very big!

Christmas Island has no comparison to any other island. Its curious amalgam of cultures, scenery and wildlife creates a truly unique travel experience that leaves you wondering ‘why haven’t I been here before’.

There are several restaurants on Christmas Island serving excellent Western, Malay and Chinese cuisine, the majority of restaurants and cafes are on the Northern tip of the island near the Settlement or the Flying Fish Cove.

Please note, as with all ports of call, the condition and method of preparation cannot be monitored by P&O Cruises. With that in mind if passengers purchase or consume this food they do so entirely at their own risk.