About the Port
Kennedy Island is a small, uninhabited islet in the Solomon Islands' Western Province, a short boat ride from the town of Gizo. It takes its name from future U.S. President John F. Kennedy, whose PT-109 crew swam to its shores after their vessel was sunk by a Japanese destroyer in 1943, a story still recounted by local guides. Ringed by white sand and shallow reef, the island today is valued less for monuments than for its quiet, castaway charm.
Visitors come mainly to snorkel over the coral fringing the shoreline, where clear, warm water reveals reef fish and soft corals close to the beach. There are no facilities on the island itself, so travelers typically arrive by tender from nearby Gizo, making it a straightforward half-day outing focused on swimming, snorkeling, and simply enjoying an unspoiled tropical setting with a genuine historical footnote.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Kennedy Island.
Snorkel the Fringing Reef
Shallow coral just off the beach teems with reef fish and soft corals in clear, warm water. Bring your own mask and fins, as none are available on the island.
Trace the PT-109 Story
Ask a local guide about the night a young JFK and his crew swam ashore here after their boat was sunk in 1943. A short walk around the islet is enough to take in the setting behind the tale.
Relax on an Unspoiled Beach
With no buildings or vendors, the ring of white sand offers an uncrowded stretch for swimming or simply unwinding between snorkeling sessions. Arrive by tender from Gizo and plan for a half-day visit.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Cruises That Visit Kennedy Island
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 6, 2026 | Silversea | Silver Cloud Expedition | 23 | $21,870 | |
| Sep 25, 2027 | Silversea | Silver Cloud Expedition | 28 | $25,500 | |
| Sep 25, 2027 | Silversea | Silver Cloud Expedition | 18 | $19,520 | |
| Sep 20, 2028 | Silversea | Silver Cloud Expedition | 33 | $26,900 | |
| Sep 20, 2028 | Silversea | Silver Cloud Expedition | 23 | $20,480 |