Doc Holiday: Why has Norfolk Island become so expensive?

Why has the price of travel to Norfolk Island skyrocketed? A few years ago, it cost around $1500 for a seven-day tour; now it seems to be around $2500.

If you and I were having coffee I’d put my head in my hands and say, “I dunno, I feel like the cost of travel to just about every destination I’m interested in visiting has skyrocketed in recent years.” Fortunately, your email hit my inbox as I was mid-bite with some of the Qantas media team, so I had the perfect opportunity to put this question to them.

I've been to Bali three times, this Aussie beach town is betterPort Douglas, Queensland....more

Interestingly, their data reveals that despite increases in taxes and local airport charges, the average base fare to and from Norfolk Island has actually decreased rather than increased in recent years, from an average of around $337 between August and October in 2022 to $307 for the same period this year.

However, the folks at Norfolk Island report that like much of the travel industry – particularly islands located well over 1000km off the coast of Australia – prices on the ground have climbed since the pandemic due to global supply chain pressures, fuel prices, freight expenses and aircraft operating costs.

“Various tour operators on Norfolk Island set very similar rates to be competitive,” their representative explained. “However, in the past few years, we’ve seen a demand from travellers seeking more curated and inclusive holiday packages, which often include experiences, guided tours, or upgraded accommodation. This can make overall package prices appear higher, even though they now deliver greater value and convenience.”

There are plenty of reasonable accommodation options which fall well under $200 a night, so provided you book your flight outside of peak season (look out for the regular Qantas Red Tail Sales which offer great discounts to the island) and get in early with accommodation, you should still be able to enjoy exceptional value for a South Pacific holiday.