2009 Vanuatu Ocean Swim & Espiritu Santo Aore Swim
Each year in early June, Vanuatu prepares for an invasion of keen ocean swimmers, escaping the chills of a southern winter in Australia and New Zealand and the cold confines of indoor pools, shivers and wetsuits. In return, they get to enjoy some warm water swimming, exploration and adventure as they compete in the Vanuatu Ocean Swim and – three days later – the Espiritu Santo Aore Swim.
The clear, sheltered waters and reefs of Port Vila harbour provide a natural and inviting challenge for any swimmer and a perfect setting for the Vanuatu Ocean Swim. Conditions in Port Vila are usually calm and the challenge for most swimmers is the 3.2km distance. For those who may find that distance a little too challenging, there’s also the choice of a 1.5km swim.
An altogether contrasting challenge is the 2.6km Espiritu Santo Aore Swim across the Segond Channel which separates Espiritu Santo's south coast from the island of Aore. The swim course runs from Unity Park in Luganville across the Channel to Aore Resort and it can be a daunting swim with unpredictable conditions. On occasions south easterlies and strong tidal currents blow up rough, choppy conditions, turning the swim into a true ocean challenge.
A feature of the Espiritu Santo Aore Swim is the unique swimmer support provided by a fleet of traditional outrigger canoes guiding participants across the channel, backed up by more ‘modern’ kayaks and powered craft. It’s a special feeling for swimmers turning to breathe to see one of the most ancient forms of water transport quietly paddling alongside.
Sightseeing
If you don’t fancy competitive swimming, there is still plenty to see and do thanks to Vanuatu’s beautiful scenery, warm climate and fascinating history and culture. Port Vila’s shopping and dining are among the best in the Pacific, or you can sample some of the many activities including golfing, guided tours, scenic flights, waterfall tours and watersports like cruising, fishing, diving, snorkelling and kayaking.
Espiritu Santo, known as Vanuatu’s ‘Big Island’, has breathtaking rainforest scenery and an impressive array of activities. The island is full of adventure with WWII relics, mountains, dense forest and a spectacular ocean playground for water lovers. You can soak up the local atmosphere at the colourful Luganville markets, visit some of the WWII relics and historic sites, experience the local culture at a custom village or enjoy the island’s bushwalks and magnificent sandy beaches. And divers won’t want to miss seeing the world’s largest intact diveable WWII wreck – SS President Coolidge. This 22,000 tonne luxury liner sank in Segond Channel in 1942 after hitting US-laid mines, and is now a protected marine reserve.
When?
- The 2009 Vanuatu Ocean Swim takes place on Saturday 13 June.
- The 2009 Espiritu Santo Aore Swim takes place on Tuesday 16 June.
- See www.pacificswims.com for the latest news and information on the swims.
Getting There
Australia
For package information from Australia contact Sarah Beeken at Millennium Travel in Sydney, phone +61 2 9211 0944, Toll Free 1800 622 523, email sarah@millenniumtravel.com.au.
New Zealand
For package information contact Jeremy Shannahan at United Travel Takapuna, phone 09 486 1625, Toll Free 0800 336660, email Jeremy@utdtakapuna.co.nz
Antipodean Explorer
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More Information
Order your free copy of Jasons Vanuatu Visitor Guide and Visitor Map
Vanuatu Activities
Port Vila Travel Guide
Port Vila Accommodation
Port Vila Hot Deals
Port Vila Transport
Espiritu Santo Travel Guide
Espiritu Santo Accommodation