Florida Islands Cruise Port Guide: Things to Do & Practical Tips

Quick Take

Port Type

Expedition/Adventure Port

Best For

Expedition cruise passengers; nature and cultural exploration; small-group travelers.

Avoid If

You want nightlife, shopping, or familiar restaurants; you need extensive accessibility.

Walkability

Minimal; the islands are very small and undeveloped. Most activities require boat transport.

Budget Fit

Low-cost destination; shore excursions and local guides are affordable.

Good For Short Calls?

Yes; most activities fit a 4–6 hour port window.

Port Overview

The Florida Islands are a small group of remote atolls in the Solomon Islands, visited primarily by expedition and luxury small-ship cruises (Lindblad, Ponant, Silversea, Regent Seven Seas). Ships anchor offshore; passengers tender ashore to Gizo, the main settlement, or to nearby uninhabited islets. There is no deep-water port facility, and the islands have minimal infrastructure—no roads, no shops of note, and limited services. The appeal lies in pristine coral reefs, traditional village culture, and undisturbed nature, not comfort or convenience. If your cruise stops here, it is because your itinerary emphasizes exploration and cultural immersion, not beach resort recreation. Most cruisers do best booking guided excursions through their ship; independent exploration is possible but less rewarding without local knowledge.

Is It Safe?

The Solomon Islands have a mixed safety reputation. Gizo settlement itself is generally safe during daylight, especially near the dock where cruise passengers congregate. Petty theft (bags, cameras) can occur; keep valuables secured and don't leave items unattended. Avoid walking alone after dark or venturing into isolated jungle areas without a guide. Inter-island tensions and occasional civil disorder have occurred in the past, but remote islands like the Florida group see little impact; your cruise line and guides monitor conditions closely. Use common sense: stick to populated areas, respect local customs, and follow crew guidance. If you have specific security concerns, ask your ship's security officer before going ashore.

Accessibility & Walkability

Accessibility is very limited. There are no paved roads, no wheelchairs-friendly infrastructure, and no accessible public facilities. Tender docking may involve stepping over gunnels or wading through shallow water. Terrain around Gizo is uneven and muddy, and jungle trails are rough. Passengers with mobility challenges should pre-arrange excursions with their cruise line and discuss specific needs; some guided tours can accommodate slower paces, but independent exploration is not realistic. If you require wheelchair access or have significant mobility constraints, this port may not be suitable; consult with guest services early.

Outside the Terminal

There is no formal cruise terminal. After tendering, you'll beach ashore or dock at a small communal jetty near Gizo. Expect a handful of modest buildings (local government, shops), a few coconut palms, and quiet streets. The first impression is of a very small, laid-back village—not touristy, not bustling, just everyday Pacific island life. A few locals may approach to sell crafts or offer informal tours; be polite but reserved. If you've booked an excursion, your guide will meet you at the dock. Otherwise, you're on your own to explore the settlement or nearby beach.

Beaches Near the Port

Local Food & Drink

Dining options ashore are very limited. Gizo has a few small eateries serving local fare—rice, coconut-based dishes, fresh fish, tropical fruit—but don't expect restaurants in the Western sense. Most serve basic meals in informal settings; hygiene standards may vary. If you want to eat ashore, ask your guide or a local for a recommended spot, or plan to eat a light snack and return to the ship for a proper meal. Many cruisers pack snacks or eat lunch onboard. Fresh coconut, tropical fruit, and fish are usually available and safe if prepared by trusted vendors. Tap water is not reliably safe for visitors; drink bottled water only.

Shopping

Shopping is minimal and geared to basic needs and souvenirs. Gizo has a few small shops selling dried coconut, shell crafts, woven baskets, and simple clothing. Don't expect supermarket-style variety, branded goods, or modern amenities. Prices are fair by local standards but quality is modest. If you want a souvenir, shop early; selection is limited and items sell out. There are no duty-free shops, malls, or significant retail attractions. Come with low expectations; the appeal of shopping here is authenticity and supporting local craftspeople, not acquisition.

Money & Currency

Currency

Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD)

USD Accepted?

No

Card Payments

Limited to very few shops in Gizo; assume cash only for most transactions.

ATMs

No reliable ATM on the islands; withdraw cash before arriving or carry USD and exchange ashore.

Tipping

Not customary in the Solomon Islands; informal gratuities for guides (~10%) are appreciated but not expected.

Notes

Exchange rates are unfavorable ashore. If your cruise line allows pre-exchange or shipboard exchange, take advantage. Bring small bills and coin for informal transactions. Credit cards are useless except possibly at your ship's shore excursion desk.

Weather & Best Time

Best months

May to October (dry season); cooler and less humid.

Avoid

November to April (wet season); heavy rain, cyclone risk, and high humidity.

Temperature

75–85°F (24–29°C) year-round; humidity varies.

Notes

Most cruise lines visit during May–October. Cyclone season (Nov–Apr) can disrupt itineraries. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a light rain jacket, and insect repellent year-round.

Airport Information

Airport

Gizo Airport (GZO)

Distance

~2 km from Gizo settlement; accessible by boat or small ferry.

Getting there

Small ferry or speedboat from Gizo dock; arrange via your cruise line or guide.

Notes

Very small airfield; limited commercial service. Most cruise passengers arrive and depart by ship, not air. If you are pre- or post-cruising, coordinate transport through your cruise line.