Watersports in Vanuatu
Diving
Vanuatu boasts a full range of dive spots, including World War II wrecks, coral gardens, caves, chasms, drop-offs and walls. World-class dives are scattered through the archipelago with several scuba sites close to Vila, including the wreck of the Star of Russia and the Black Sand Reef. Elsewhere, Vanuatu’s underwater world is largely virgin territory. In particular, Espiritu Santo is renowned worldwide for its excellent wreck diving, including the famous SS Coolidge – a converted troop carrier sunk during World War II.
As long as you’re over 12 and healthy, you can learn to scuba dive. Most local dive tour-operators offer a beginner course. There is a four to five day training course, which will bring you up to international open-water certification standard.
Fishing
The virtually untouched waters of Vanuatu provide superb fishing for the enthusiast and amateur alike, with catches of marlin, wahoo, mahi mahi and giant trevally. All types of fishing are easily arranged on the charter boats equipped for Deep Sea and Big Game trips moored at the Waterfront. Reef fishing is also available for the less adventurous.
Kayaking
Ocean kayaking is on offer around Efate and its surrounding islands, with trips ranging from half or full day to multi-day safaris. Islands Stream Getaway, phone (678) 26 445, email
sailaway@vanuatu.com.vu and Islandreams Glass Bottom Sea Kayaking, phone (678) 54954 / 52952 (AH 43431), email
islandreams@bigpond.com offer overnight camping on deserted beaches, with swimming and snorkelling.
Snorkelling
There are excellent snorkelling spots throughout the archipelago, many of which can be explored from the shore. Easily accessible spots near Port Vila include Hideaway Island Marine Reserve, Hat Island and Paul’s Rock and Tranquillity Island. Most boat tours around Port Vila and Luganville cater for snorkellers and you can usually accompany a scuba group, viewing colourful corals gardens in the shallows while the rest of your party explores the deep.
Surfing
Surfing is for experienced surfers only and is best at high tide. The waves break directly on coral reefs and currents are often very strong. In Port Vila, Pango Point offers the only site near town. Seek permission before entering. The surf season is between November and May.
Swimming
Vanuatu has hundreds of beaches. Many of the sandy ones are black (a legacy of the nation’s volcanoes) while others are brilliant white. The majority of beaches offer safe swimming including Eton beach, Erakor Island and Hideaway Island on Efate. Other lovely beaches are Golden Bay, Lonnoc and Bokissa Island in Espiritu Santo, and Mystery Island in Aneityum. Strong currents can be a danger in some areas, so always seek local advice first. If you are swimming near the coral reefs, wear reef shoes or sandshoes to avoid cuts.
Sailing, Cruises & Windsurfing
Sailing the waterways of Vanuatu is a rewarding experience. Half-day, full-day and multi-day trips go from Port Vila (Efate) and Luganville (Santo). Half or full day trips feature sightseeing, swimming, snorkelling, picnicking and exploring caves, while the multi-day ones focus on inter-island exploring and live aboard diving. There are plenty of watersports around Port Vila and Luganville including parasailing and windsurfing. Many resorts hire out small boats and boards. Mele Bay is an excellent windsurfing location.