Secrets of Vanuatu - 6 Nights
Espiritu Santo to Espiritu Santo
Day 1 - DinnerOn arrival at Espiritu Santo Airport, you’ll be met and transferred to downtown where a ferry will be waiting to take you to Aore Island Resort. Once there, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink and then given beach towels which you can use for the rest of the day. NB: We suggest you pack a day bag with your swimming togs and anything else you may need for the day. Oh, and if ‘swimming’ isn’t first and foremost on your ‘things to do’ list, the resort has an all-day dining menu and bar which you’re more than welcome to use.
You’ll have until 4pm to relax and use the resort facilities before you are met by a crew member who’ll transfer you by tender to the “Island Passage”. Shortly after departure, the ship will head around Million Dollar Point; aptly named for the vast amount of American war machinery under the waves, the coast of Santo beckons. We then anchor off Aese Island for a sundown dinner. Welcome to Our Paradise.
Day 2 - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, there’s the opportunity to snorkel over a fabulous coral reef only metres from the ship. It’s an unforgettable experience - we’ll take you up current in the tender, so that you can drift over gardens of coral inhabited by a myriad of tropical fishes.
On the same day, you’ll venture up the Riri River in a dugout canoe to discover the miraculous blue holes – deep, clear freshwater springs that bubble up into the river. You’ve never seen the colour blue quite like this. A refreshing swim is almost compulsory! The rest of your day can include as much activity as you wish: sightseeing from the tenders; exploring the shoreline; perhaps a trip with one of our fishing guides. Or simply relaxing in a steamer chair as you adjust to “island time “and get pampered “Island Passage” style. Tonight will be spent at anchor off the pristine beaches of Mavea Island
Day 3 - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After enjoying another one of chef’s indulgent breakfasts there's still time for a swim or a walk before we up anchor and make our way north through even more beautiful island, arriving in Hog Harbour in the late afternoon. For those onboard keen to experience the thrill of fishing "tropical style" this is the first opportunity. Our guides in the fishing tender will shadow the ship up the coast in search of the game fish that the area is known for. On the right day the results can be spectacular with tuna, wahoo, and mahi mahi often landed.
The views as we cruise north are unforgettable. If conditions are right some of our local friends will deliver a basket of local lobster. The evening sunset brings the day to a close with the Captains Dinner.
Day 4 - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, your Vanuatu Cruise Adventure will see you landing on world famous Champagne Beach - said to be the most beautiful beach in the world - which promises the bluest water, whitest sand and greenest jungle - it's just breathtaking. You can swim, sunbathe, snorkel, kayak and chat with the local pareu sellers. Later today we cross the straits to explore Maewo and Pentecost.
Day 5 - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We’re welcomed into the village of Asanvari, which is situated above a beautiful lagoon at the southern end of Maewo. This intriguing settlement has a charismatic leader known simply as ‘Chief Nelson’. We’ll say no more about the chief, in case it spoils the surprise!
In Asanvarai you’ll get a look at the ni-Vanuatu way of life. You’ll also get to know their sense of humour because smiling and laughing are major pastimes here. You can watch a custom dance, chat with the locals, learn how to cook lap-lap, walk to the village gardens, and visit a beautiful waterfall or snorkel in the protected lagoon. And make sure you check out the Asanvari Yacht Club. When you arrive back on board, it’s time for the Captain’s Cocktail Party. We remain at anchor in this fabulous bay overnight.
Day 6 - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, the ship gets underway to sail south to Wali. We are greeted by the villagers in traditional wear and led to the edge of the forest where the 60 metre high land diving tower has been constructed from palm trees that are lashed together with flax. The land dive ceremony is preceded by the local women wailing and dancing is a semi-hypnotic trance. There are usually 8 jumpers and the ceremony lasts for around 90 minutes. You will leave in awe. We then move down the coast to Waterfall Village. Our local host will introduce you to the wonderful people of South Pentecost. You’ll be taken into the village as if you were part of it. From the Chief’s heartfelt welcome to your traditional Vanuatu kava farewell, you’ll be enthralled. All our guests agree that this is a very special place. Your last dinner aboard is served as we lie at anchor just off the village. Late in the evening we get underway with the trade winds on our quarter, passing between Bokissa and Aore Islands as we head back towards Santo. This is a day you will remember for years to come.
Day 7 - Breakfast
A Continental Breakfast is served before you disembark at 9.00am. You’re free to use the facilities at Aore Island Resort before you’re transferred to the airport for your onward flight. Transfers to the airport are provided.
Day 8 - 11 Breakfast - for guests extending to Resorts
You now have nights at your selected hotel in Santo or Port Vila. Built around Vila Bay, Port Vila spreads up steep hillsides that offer stunning views over its beautiful harbour, sculpted with inlets, lagoons and islets. In combination with its faded French atmosphere, rambling streets and café scene, it makes Vila one of the South Pacific's most attractive towns.
There are numerous activities available for your stay. The tours that operate throughout the island and villages are always popular. The dining in Port Vila is varied and reasonably priced with selections ranging from Asian, Pacific and French with numerous café style restaurants throughout the bay. The shopping is also interesting from the market in town to the numerous duty free opportunities. Either way you will be offered many choices and endless possibilities for your time in Port Vila.
At the end of your stay we will collect you and transfer you to the airport for your flight home.
Please note the itinerary is subject to change due to weather/sea conditions.
