Passengers travelling on P&O will now have the opportunity to spend an extended stay in Vanuatu’s capital, Port Vila after the cruise company announced a new overnight Pacific Islands experience.

Unveiled this week and departing from 4 September 2012, the 11-night Pacific Islands cruise sets sail from Brisbane, Australia on the Pacific Dawn.

Carnival Australia chief executive Ann Sherry said the company predicts the extended visit will be a “popular addition”.

“Port Vila already rates highly among our passengers, so we think they’ll be thrilled to stay longer and explore more of this part of Vanuatu,” Ms Sherry said.