Vanuatu
The untouched natural beauty of Vanuatu presents a pristine and truly unique yachting destination.
Each of the 83 islands that make up Vanuatu are unique and inspiring gems in their own right, and all lay in close proximity to tropical rainforests and soft palm-fringed beaches. This is a dream for sailing enthusiasts and luxury travellers. For visiting superyachts, this is a sublime setting for an opulent escape, filled with stunning natural treasures which provide an unforgettable basis for exploration.
Spanning over 1,300 kilometres in the South Pacific, Vanuatu offers breath-taking cruising grounds and exquisite coastlines which radiate a peaceful and calming atmosphere, ideal for exclusive superyacht charters. This undisturbed natural splendour is filled with exciting activities both on the islands and in the water, while the diverse culture of Vanuatu will have you feeling at home right away as you are met with a warm welcome. Vanuatu’s warm, tropical climate is perfect for outdoor exploration and spending days indulging on the sun deck of your yacht, with average temperatures of 27 degrees Celsius during the yachting season from May to October.
Those who need to satisfy their thirst for adventure will certainly do so in the sublime natural adventureland that Vanuatu offers. This country is simply overflowing with diverse experiences, from spellbinding reefs to fuming volcanoes and a rich jungle. Superyacht charters in Vanuatu can be tailored to individual preferences, with so many experiences and activities that it doesn’t need to be all action. If you are looking for a quiet, secluded escape then Vanuatu has a mellow side full of lavish resorts and glowing beaches, where you can sail between idyllic islands and savour local cuisine under the South Pacific sun.
Vanuatu is well positioned to welcome superyachts to its shores with magnificent ports in Efate, Espiritu Santo and Tanna placing you in the heart of the country’s intense tropical beauty. The outer islands, which include the alluring settings of Epi, Malekula, and the Bank Islands, all have perfect anchorages from which you can take in the beautiful scenery and enjoy al fresco dining on the decks of your superyacht.
On the seductive island of Efate is Port Vila, the capital of Vanuatu. Here you will uncover a sprawling mass of tropical forest and inviting sandy beaches to spend lazy days surrounded by exotic wildlife. Port Vila is an enchanting harbour town which is one of the best spots for culinary delights in the South Pacific, with a string of sumptuous restaurants and cafes that offer a fusion of distinct flavours. Cruising around Efate’s jagged coastline, you will be treated to quiet sandy bays, tranquil lagoons and fast flowing rivers. One of the most thrilling and unique experiences in Vanuatu is the active Mount Yasur Volcano, found on the fascinating island of Tanna. This is one of Vanuatu’s most iconic sights, where you can stand on the edge of the crater to feel the trembling earth beneath your feet. From this spine-tingling experience on land, you can head to Espiritu Santo for a remarkably different encounter.
In Espiritu Santo, the largest island in Vanuatu, there is a magical underwater world to discover, with historic shipwrecks and a colourful marine life that attracts divers and snorkelers alike. Captivating underwater caverns and scintillating swimming holes are only accessible by boat, adding to the exclusivity and privacy of a superyacht charter. These sensational locations are why Espiritu Santo has been dubbed the ‘Mystery Island’, and you will uncover these mystical natural sights from the luxury of your yacht.
Vanuatu is blessed with a diverse natural world and undisturbed beauty that is matched by luxurious modern comforts in its towns. Your superyacht charter can be a chance to delve into all the unique experience on land and at sea, or used to explore the isolated beaches and serene bays for low-key relaxation.
VIEW 6 NIGHTS | 7 DAYS SUPERYACHT CHARTER ITINERARY
Explore Untouched Coastlines
80 islands like no other!
Untouched and unique, Vanuatu offers its visitors special and unspoiled paradise, and an adventure like no other. Made up of roughly 80 islands and stretched across 1,300 kilometres in the South Pacific, the beautiful lush coastlines present some of the world’s best coral reefs, diving and underwater caverns – not to mention its rich and vibrant culture.
A breathtaking dive that guests will be able to explore is the sunken shipwreck from WWII – The SS President Coolidge which is known for its size and beauty. Nature puts on one of the most incredible displays on earth in Vanuatu. The people of ‘Vanuatu’, a name which means ‘Land Eternal’, are largely Melanesian and the people are called Ni-Vanuatu (meaning ‘of Vanuatu’). Recognised as one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world, dances, ceremonies, status and systems of authority, artistic styles, animal and crop husbandry can vary from island to island, known as ‘kastom’. It’s calling you to get out and explore a place that is ever so raw and pristine, and will take you on the adventure of a lifetime.
Climate
The weather in Vanuatu is, of course, tropical however, whether it be summer or winter, it consistently has warm conditions. The summer temperature between November and March averages roughly 28 degrees Celsius (82.F), while winter brings an average of 23 degrees Celsius (73.4F). The most appropriate time of year for superyacht charters is between May and October, with the average sea temperature being a divine 27 degrees (80.6F) – perfect for every kind of water activity and island hopping.
Language
Due to a long history of inter-island and inter village trading, many ni-Vanuatu speak numerous languages. However, over 113 distinct languages and many more dialects are found throughout the group. When Europeans arrived, a lingua franca evolved. Its name, Bislama, derived from the Beche-de-mer (sea cucumber) traders who developed a form of Pidgin English throughout the Pacific. It began as a simplified form of phonetic English, with Spanish and French colloquialisms added for good measure. Wanem/Wanem Ia? = What/What Is That? || Tankiu Tumas = Thank You Very Much || Mi Glad Tumas = I Am Very Happy || Lukim Yu = See You Later
DAY ONE – Port Vila & Havannah Harbour
Port Vila is Vanuatu’s harbourside capital and main hub on Efate island. Home to Vila Bay, a series of lagoons, untouched beaches, underwater canyons and offshore islands, Port Vila is energetic and liberating. The perfect arrival into your holidays. Once onboard, you will set sail away for a 3-hour cruise to Havannah harbour, a place of stunning beauty, tropical produce and wonderful fresh seafood – named after the British ship HMS Havannah that twice anchored there in 1849-50.
This harbour was indeed a focal point during World War II, with many troops stationed there, including posts on nearby Moso Island. Today, small tokens of the soldiers’ presence can still be discovered on Moso. It is in this perfect natural harbour that you will spend your first night onboard, and be properly greeted to the island taste during your first delicious sunset dinner, carefully curated by the chef.
DAY TWO – Lelepa and Moso Islands
Lelepa Island, also known as paradise and the jewel of Vanuatu, is the perfect island to kick-start true adventure. Whether it be on land or in the water, Lelepa offers magical walks through tropical rainforest, snorkelling in coral gardens and visits to caves that incorporate ancient drawings from thousands of years ago. The population of Lelepa is about 500 people. The largest town on the island Natapao perches on the southern edge of the isle. At the northern end of the island lies the village Lelo. On the island, there is a school, a kindergarten and two churches. The caves on Lelepa Island were formerly used by the US soldiers during the war days in the 1940s, followed by the famous survivor TV series team in 2004 and the Australian Celebrity Survivors in 2006.
Directly next door to Lelepa is Moso Island: surrounded by turquoise waters, white sandy beaches and an abundance of marine life. This pristine island allows guests to get in touch with nature or to purely reconnect with your mind whilst relaxing from everyday life at home. There are no roads or cars on Moso Island. There are approximately 300 ni-Vanuatu inhabitants on Moso, the majority in Tassirki village. Fishing, subsistence agriculture and tourism make up the economy of Moso. People most frequently fish from the traditional outrigger canoes both during the day and night.
DAY THREE – Pele, Nguna Island
Wake up in the surreal surrounds of Nguna Island. Home to only 13 villages and no cars, it’s here you can discover the top of the majestic Mt Marrow’s volcanic crater. The route takes you through local fruit and vegetable gardens, coconut palms and bamboo groves. There are many options to keep busy or to simply laze around. The beach is long and beautiful and the marine sanctuary welcomes swimmers and snorkelers. The island is part of the MPA Nguna-Pele Marine Protected Area and is a popular diving location bountiful in marine life. If you’re lucky enough, you might come face to face with the resident dugongs that vacuum the seabed for food. The remoteness of the island creates an incredible feel that will leave you wanting to explore more!
DAY FOUR – Maskelyne Islands
The Maskelynes are a group of small islands with extensive reefs and mangroves off southeast Malekula. Coral reef conservation areas offer good, easy snorkelling for the whole family. After an early morning swim and breakfast, you will sail 6 hours north to the south of Malekula Island where the Captain will drop anchor. This is a must-see destination as it’s famous for the true unspoilt, natural and cultural beauty. Spend your day on the water riding jet-skis or exploring on a stand-up paddleboard. In the afternoon, you can go ashore Avok island to experience the Nambas dance ceremony ashore, and maybe visit the Giant Clams sanctuary built by a grandfather and his son to protect the incredible variety of the animal here.
Vanuatu’s culture and history are strongly expressed in art, body decorations, masks and carvings and all play an important role in celebrations. Ancient myths and legends are also responsible for helping to keep the culture and history alive. A stout belief in the influence of spirits on the natural environment is also a key part of the beliefs and depicted as part of the dance ceremonies you will partake in. You will then spend your overnight anchorage at Avok Island.
DAY FIVE – North Ambyrm Island
On your way to North Ambyrm Island you will get a visible look at the active volcanos, Mt Benbow and Mt Marum, and anchor at the end of an old lava flow. Although you will not find flowing molten lava here, you are certainly free to roam the black sands. The ash plains that lie between Maroum and Benbow are stunning in their own right, but can only be crossed with a guide. Black ash, tinted orange with sulphur from the volcanoes, become an eerie sight when wisps of smoke and cloud float through. On land, Ambrym is particularly known for traditional custom beliefs that are highly evident and remain very strong, which is a sight to see in itself. Each village is decorated in sculpted tam-tams made from tree trunks and used in the sacred ceremonial rituals, such as the sacred Rom Dance. Ambrym’s signatory custom dance represents spirits believed to be of the forefathers of the island. The traditional costume consists of a tall, brightly painted conical mask and a cloak of dry banana leaves. Ambrym islanders are also said to be skilled in custom magic and sorcery. You can be assured your visit will be a truly “magical” experience.
DAY SIX & SEVEN – Espiritu Santo
As you wake to nature’s noises and calming ocean, you will find yourself in the quiet, vacant and unassuming island of Espiritu Santo – the largest island in Vanuatu and a true underwater fantasyland. Home to many historic wrecks including SS President Coolidge and an array of marine life, the island boasts delightful swimming holes that are connected by underwater caverns. The bespoke location gains its popularity from its large attractions that include Millennium Cave, WWII memorabilia, the east coast and inviting blue holes. If you scuba dive, you can’t miss the SS President Coolidge, one of the world’s most accessible wrecks. Days can be spent lazing on deserted white sand beaches or kayaking in the crystal blue water. This island is a little-known paradise waiting to be discovered by you. We disembark with suitcases of unforgettable memories, until next time: Lukim Yu! This itinerary is a sample only, and suggested by the Captain. It can be tailored to your preferences after consultation with your Travel Creator. The cruising is always subject to changes and amendments pending charter details and weather conditions.
