Set Sail in Vanuatu

There's something magical about relaxing on the deck of a yacht, dropping anchor at a secluded bay, or perhaps enjoying a sunset cocktail on the deck. Thanks to its sheltered anchorages, deepwater harbours and warm, clear waters, Vanuatu is a favourite destination for yachties and cruisers. Add to that its blend of French and Melanesian culture, and some of the Pacific's best diving and fishing, and Vanuatu has a special allure for those who love to get out on the water.

You'll find plenty of options for enjoying those crystal clear waters, from sunset cruises on Port Vila's stunning deepwater harbour, to diving trips and sailing adventures in the remote and magnificent landscapes of the Outer Islands. Whatever you decide to do, you'll be set for a cruisy Christmas and New Year's when you set sail in Vanuatu. 

Spend the Day on a Tall Ship
A cruise aboard one of the classic tall ships is a wonderful way to see the harbour sights and marinelife around Port Vila. Enjoy a swim in the warm waters, soak up the sun on deck or land on a sandy tropical beach for a barbecue banquet. There are several day and half-day options departing from around Port Vila, with snorkelling and picnic options.

Check out: Efate Island Travel Guide

Watch the Sun Go Down on a Sunset Cruise
If you're newly arrived in the capital of Port Vila, there's no better way to appreciate the beautiful tropical surroundings than a Sunset Cruise. Kick back and relax as you cruise the waters of Port Vila Harbour and Mele Bay, enjoy the French wines,  music and gourmet finger foods, and watch one of Vanuatu's magnificent tropical sunsets. Meridian Charters Sunset Cruises leave nightly from 5-7pm from Iririki Jetty (townside).
Check out: Efate Island Travel Guide

Cruise to the Outer Islands
Charter yachts offer live-aboard and bare-boat options, and these are a great way to explore Vanuatu's remote Outer Islands. Those with more experience can go it alone, or have your own sailing adventure tailor-made for you. You can also cruise in a luxury catamaran to the rugged outer islands of Epi, Paama, Ambrym, Malakeula and Espiritu Santo, with their lush tropical scenery and traditional culture. 

Check out: Bali Hai/Witchitit

Cast Your Line on a Fishing Trip
Vanuatu is one of the South Pacific's premium big game fishing spots, and a magnet for anglers in search of a deep sea challenge. The deep waters surrounding Efate and the Outer Islands offer fantastic fishing grounds, with reefs, canyons and underwater volcanoes creating an exciting marine playground. Catches include huge wahoo, mahi mahi, yellowfin and dogtooth tuna, giant trevally and sailfish. Or try your luck on The Marlin Highway – said to be one of the Pacific's best blue marlin fishing grounds. Most of the charters depart from Port Vila on Efate and from here, you can arrange an adventure fishing cruise or live-aboard experience, or enjoy a shorter day cruise.

Explore Underwater on a Dive Cruise
With exceptionally clear waters, World War II wrecks, extensive reef systems, and some of the best live coral gardens in the Pacfic, Vanuatu is a diver's dream. It's also blessed with an exciting diversity of marinelife for both divers and snorkellers to enjoy, including turtles, reef sharks and huge schools of colourful tropical fish. Dive charters operate from both Port Vila and Havannah harbour on Efate, and out of Luganville on Espiritu Santo. There are some awesome underwater adventures available – tackle The Cathedral, one of the Pacific's most amazing cave dives, hand-feed the big fish or swim through sunken boat and fighter plane wrecks. When you're not diving, there is time ashore for a delicious lunch, a spot of beachcombing and sunbathing, or a jungle bushwalk.

Check out: Sailaway Cruises

Cruise the Reefs on a Glass Bottom Boat
If you'd prefer to stay dry, then check out the glass bottom boat tours at the marine sanctuary on Hideaway Island. This small coral atoll is surrounded by vivid turquoise waters and coral reefs that are home to thousands of colourful fish. The glass panels on the boat floor look straight onto the pristine coral and there are a myriad of tropical fish to watch. Snorkellers have the option to go diving among the fish, or join the daily snorkel safari out to the fringing reef.

Set Your Pulses Racing on a Jetboat
If you fancy something a little more adventurous then Vanuatu Jet offer the thrill of sideways slides, fish tails and 360 degree spins on their high speed jetboat. Thrill rides depart from Jet Beach, Port Vila (next to the markets). 

Getting There 
Vanuatu’s international airline, Air Vanuatu, operates flights from Auckland, and also runs domestic flights to the Outer Islands from the airfields on Efate and Espiritu Santo.

Order your free Jasons Vanuatu Visitor Map and Vanuatu Visitor Guide now.