Sailing and exploring in Vanuatu
Vanuatu offers a unique mix of adventure, exploration, and cultural immersion. Private yacht cruising allows unparalleled access to its hidden gems, from unspoiled beaches and coral atolls to welcoming villages and very unique and authentic traditions. With its rich diversity, this destination promises memories that will last a lifetime. It is on the top of he list for most circumnavigators.
Tanna Island: The Gateway to Adventure
- Port Resolution
Anchoring in Port Resolution offers a stunning introduction to Vanuatu. This natural harbor is well-protected and ideal for yachts. Meet the locals who will warmly greet you with their rich customs and island hospitality. - Mount Yasur Volcano
A short hike or a guided tour brings you to the rim of Mount Yasur, one of the most accessible active volcanoes in the world. The fiery display of erupting lava is a breathtaking experience, particularly at night. - Kastom and the Rom Dance
The Rom Dance is a unique kastom (custom) ceremony performed in traditional attire, often for special occasions. This dance, marked by its striking costumes and rhythmic chanting, is a cultural highlight of Tanna.
Erromango: History and Natural Beauty
- Dillon’s Bay
A quiet anchorage with beautiful beaches, Dillon’s Bay offers excellent opportunities for exploring the island’s rugged terrain and caves. - Cultural Encounters
The island is steeped in history, including early missionary stories. Engage with the locals to learn about their culture and traditions.
Efate: Home to Port Vila
- Port Vila
Vanuatu’s bustling capital, Port Vila, is a prime stop for provisioning, repairs, and exploring local markets. Enjoy French-influenced cuisine, duty-free shopping, and modern marinas. - Havannah Harbour
A tranquil anchorage with excellent snorkeling, fishing, and calm waters, Havannah Harbour offers a contrast to the lively Port Vila.
Epi and Pentecost Islands
- Epi Island
Anchor near Lamen Bay, known for its friendly dugong population. Snorkeling alongside these gentle creatures is a rare and memorable experience. - Pentecost Island: Land Diving
Witness the iconic Naghol (land diving) ceremony, considered the precursor to modern bungee jumping. Between April and June, men leap from towering wooden structures with only vines tied to their ankles in an incredible display of bravery and tradition.
Ambrym: The Black Magic Island
- Volcano Treks
The twin volcanoes, Benbow and Marum, dominate Ambrym’s landscape. Trekking these volcanoes offers otherworldly views of lava lakes. - Black Sand Beaches and Water Music
Ambrym’s black sand beaches are hauntingly beautiful, and the island is famed for its water music, where performers use water as an instrument to create hypnotic rhythms.
Espiritu Santo: Diving and WWII History
- Luganville
The second-largest town in Vanuatu, Luganville is an excellent hub for diving and exploring the island. Anchorages are abundant, and provisioning is convenient. - Diving the SS President Coolidge
This WWII wreck is one of the world’s most accessible and impressive dive sites, teeming with marine life and historical artifacts. - Blue Holes and Champagne Beach
Explore the island’s famous blue holes—crystal-clear freshwater springs surrounded by lush jungle. Champagne Beach, with its powdery white sand and turquoise waters, is ideal for relaxation.
The Banks Islands: Remote and Untouched
- Gaua Island
Sail to Gaua to experience Mount Garet, an active volcano with a crater lake, and stunning waterfalls like Siri Waterfall. - Cultural Practices
The Banks Islands are a treasure trove of kastom practices, from traditional dances to intricate carvings. Meeting the communities here is like stepping back in time. - Diving and Marine Life
Pristine reefs offer spectacular diving opportunities, with vibrant coral gardens and abundant marine species.
Historical Context: British and French Co-Dominion
From 1906 to Vanuatu’s independence in 1980, the New Hebrides (as Vanuatu was known) was jointly governed by Britain and France under a unique condominium arrangement. This dual administration left a lasting legacy on the nation’s language, culture, and governance. Signs of this shared history can be found in bilingual signs, diverse cuisine, and a blend of Anglican and Catholic traditions.
Practical Tips for Cruising Vanuatu
- Customs and Clearance
Entry points include Port Vila (Efate), Luganville (Espiritu Santo), and Lenakel (Tanna). Ensure you have proper documentation and adhere to local customs. - Sailing Seasons
The best time to cruise is between May and October, during the dry season, when trade winds provide favorable sailing conditions. - Navigation and Safety
Carry updated charts as reefs and underwater obstacles are common. Use local knowledge whenever possible. - Engage with Kastom
Always seek permission before entering villages or taking photos. A small gift of kava or other goods is appreciated.
MARINAS
1. Yachting World Marina – Port Vila, Efate Island
Located in Port Vila’s protected inner harbor, Yachting World Marina provides a range of services:
- Sea Wall Marina: Accommodates yachts up to 70 feet (21 meters) in length, offering facilities such as pressure water, electrical outlets, garbage disposal, showers, toilets, and Wi-Fi.
- Swing Moorings: Available for yachts preferring mooring options.
- Fuel Wharf: Supplies clean fuel with easy access for yachts.
- Additional Amenities: Laundry services, mail handling, and the Waterfront Bar and Grill, which serves as a social hub for sailors.
2. The Point Marina – Port Vila, Efate Island
Situated approximately 7 kilometers from downtown Port Vila, The Point Marina is part of a residential development offering:
- Private Boating Facilities: Exclusive to residents, including a boat ramp and marina berths.
- Berth Sizes: Accommodates boats up to 20 meters in length.
- Proximity to Boatyard: Less than 2 nautical miles from Port Vila Boatyard for maintenance needs.
WEATHER
WEATHER
Swell
PILOT CHARTS
VANUATU Pilot Charts provide historic points and aggregated information of wind flows, air and ocean temperatures, wave heights, rain, barometric weight, and climate conditions at various seasons. This data was acquired from oceanographic and meteorologic perceptions over hundreds of years starting in the late eighteenth century. These diagrams are planned to help mariners choose routes around and approaching Cuba with respect to the normal climate and sea conditions using prevailing seasonal wind information.
PORTS OF ENTRY
It’s important to note that vessels must notify the Vanuatu Immigration Office before arriving at or departing from these designated ports of entry. The master of a vessel is required to provide a list of all officers, crew members, passengers (including those in transit), and other persons on board. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in fines or imprisonment.
For the most current information and specific entry requirements, it’s advisable to consult the Vanuatu Department of Immigration and Passport Services.
Vanuatu designates several official ports of entry for vessels arriving by sea and air. These ports are equipped to handle customs, immigration, and quarantine procedures.
Seaports:
- Lapeitasi Port: Located in Port Vila, Efate Island, it serves as the main maritime entry point.
- Niscol Port: Situated in Luganville on Espiritu Santo Island, catering to vessels in the northern areas.
- Lenakel Port: Found on Tanna Island, providing access to the southern regions.
- Mystery Port: Located on Aneityum Island, serving the southeastern part of Vanuatu.
- Litzlitz Port: Situated on Malekula Island, accommodating vessels to the central islands.
- Sola Port: Found on Vanualava Island, serving the northernmost areas.
Airports:
- Bauerfield International Airport (VLI): Located in Port Vila on Efate Island, this is the primary international gateway to Vanuatu.
- Pekoa International Airport (SON): Situated on Espiritu Santo Island, serving the northern regions.
- Whitegrass International Airport (TAH): Found on Tanna Island, accommodating flights to the southern parts of the archipelago.
DOCUMENTS
It’s important to note that vessels must notify the Vanuatu Immigration Office before arriving at or departing from these designated ports of entry. The master of a vessel is required to provide a list of all officers, crew members, passengers (including those in transit), and other persons on board. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in fines or imprisonment.
For the most current information and specific entry requirements, it’s advisable to consult the Vanuatu Department of Immigration and Passport Services.
Vanuatu designates several official ports of entry for vessels arriving by sea and air. These ports are equipped to handle customs, immigration, and quarantine procedures.
Seaports:
- Lapeitasi Port: Located in Port Vila, Efate Island, it serves as the main maritime entry point.
- Niscol Port: Situated in Luganville on Espiritu Santo Island, catering to vessels in the northern areas.
- Lenakel Port: Found on Tanna Island, providing access to the southern regions.
- Mystery Port: Located on Aneityum Island, serving the southeastern part of Vanuatu.
- Litzlitz Port: Situated on Malekula Island, accommodating vessels to the central islands.
- Sola Port: Found on Vanualava Island, serving the northernmost areas.
Airports:
- Bauerfield International Airport (VLI): Located in Port Vila on Efate Island, this is the primary international gateway to Vanuatu.
- Pekoa International Airport (SON): Situated on Espiritu Santo Island, serving the northern regions.
- Whitegrass International Airport (TAH): Found on Tanna Island, accommodating flights to the southern parts of the archipelago.
ENTRY EXIT REQUIREMENTS
| DOCUMENTATION | |
| Passport | Valid for at least _ months; requires one blank page |
| Boat Documentation | Coast Guard Doc (Original) |
| Insurance | |
| Crewlist | Required at checkin/out |
| Zarpe | Required at checkin/out |
| Fishing License | |
| Official Procedures | https://customsinlandrevenue.gov.vu/index.php/travellers/yacht-clearance |
| Official Country Visa | |
| Immigration Visa | |
| Required Permits | Proof of Covid Vaccination |
| Upon Arrival Visit: | Immigration; Customs; Port Captain/Authority |
| Upon Departure Visit: | Immigration; Customs; Port Captain |
| Total Entry & Exit Fees: | 5000 VAT biosecurity 4800 VAT Immigration 3000 VAT Rubbish |
MUST SEE
-
1. Mount Yasur Volcano (Tanna Island)
- Why Visit: One of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes with stunning eruptions visible even at night.
- Best Time: May to October (dry season for clear viewing).
2. Champagne Beach (Espiritu Santo Island)
- Why Visit: Famous for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters.
- Best Time: May to September (cooler and less humid).
3. Blue Holes (Espiritu Santo Island)
- Why Visit: Freshwater springs surrounded by lush jungle, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
- Best Time: June to August (clear waters and comfortable temperatures).
4. Millennium Cave (Espiritu Santo Island)
- Why Visit: A thrilling adventure featuring hiking, river swimming, and exploring a massive limestone cave.
- Best Time: July to September (drier weather for hiking).
5. Port Vila Markets (Efate Island)
- Why Visit: Vibrant markets showcasing local produce, handicrafts, and traditional food.
- Best Time: Year-round, but May to October is cooler.
6. Eton Beach (Efate Island)
- Why Visit: A pristine, uncrowded beach with calm waters and beautiful scenery.
- Best Time: May to October.
7. The Rom Dance (Tanna Island)
- Why Visit: A traditional kastom ceremony featuring dramatic costumes and chants.
- Best Time: August to September (kastom festivals).
8. Naghol Land Diving (Pentecost Island)
- Why Visit: Witness the original bungee jumping ritual, an awe-inspiring display of bravery.
- Best Time: April to June (land diving season).
9. WW2 Wrecks (Espiritu Santo Island)
- Why Visit: Dive into history at sites like the SS President Coolidge and Million Dollar Point.
- Best Time: May to October (best diving conditions).
10. Mele Cascades (Efate Island)
- Why Visit: A series of cascading waterfalls surrounded by tropical rainforest.
- Best Time: May to September (cooler and less rainfall).
11. Hideaway Island and Marine Sanctuary (Efate Island)
- Why Visit: Snorkel the underwater post office and explore vibrant coral reefs.
- Best Time: July to October (calmer seas).
12. Siri Waterfall (Gaua Island)
- Why Visit: A majestic waterfall flowing into Lake Letas, surrounded by lush greenery.
- Best Time: June to September (dry season for easier trekking).
13. Ambrym Volcanoes (Ambrym Island)
- Why Visit: Trek to the twin active volcanoes, Benbow and Marum, with views of glowing lava lakes.
- Best Time: August to October (dry season).
14. Cultural Village Tours (Efate and Malekula Islands)
- Why Visit: Experience traditional Vanuatu kastom, dances, and storytelling.
- Best Time: Year-round.
15. Fele Museum (Port Vila, Efate Island)
- Why Visit: Learn about Vanuatu’s rich history, culture, and artifacts.
- Best Time: Year-round.
16. The Banks Islands
- Why Visit: Remote and unspoiled, perfect for experiencing untouched Vanuatu culture and nature.
- Best Time: June to October (calm seas for sailing).
17. Shark Bay (Malekula Island)
- Why Visit: Explore mangroves, dive sites, and the chance to encounter reef sharks.
- Best Time: June to August.
18. Aneityum Island
- Why Visit: Home to Mystery Island, a tiny uninhabited islet with stunning beaches and reefs.
- Best Time: April to October.
19. Vanuatu Rainforest Zipline (Efate Island)
- Why Visit: Thrilling canopy ziplining with panoramic views of the rainforest and Mele Bay.
- Best Time: July to September.
20. Lake Letas (Gaua Island)
- Why Visit: A pristine volcanic lake surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for canoeing and exploring.
- Best Time: May to August.
REPAIRS AND SERVICE PROVIDERS
Vanuatu offers a limited range of yacht service providers to cater to the needs of visiting vessels. Here are some notable options:
Vanuatu’s Full Service Marine Repair & Storage Facility
Port Vila Boatyard
Ifira Point, Vila, Vanuatu
Port of Call Vanuatu
Provides professional services including yacht cruising information, clearances, provisions, cruising permits, and tour organization.
Vanuatu Yacht Services
Offers exclusive yacht agency services, including yacht clearance formalities, charter planning assistance, duty-free bunkering, outer island support, provisioning, and technical services.
