Vanuatu Islands discovery cruise

12 nights / cat 3 sailing expedition / 500nm

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable tropical sailing adventure through the remote and culturally rich islands of Vanuatu. This 12-night, Category 3 sailing expedition explores the unspoiled beauty of this volcanic archipelago, where ancient traditions meet world-class sailing conditions. With 83 islands scattered across 450 nautical miles of the South Pacific, Vanuatu offers dramatic coastlines, lush rainforests, crystal-clear lagoons, and vibrant reef systems—all waiting to be discovered by sea.

Expect a blend of blue-water sailing and relaxed coastal cruising, with opportunities to snorkel thriving coral gardens, explore hidden anchorages, and experience the warmth of Ni-Vanuatu hospitality in traditional island villages. Along the way, you’ll encounter volcanic peaks, cascading waterfalls, and remote bays where time seems to stand still.

Each stop offers a new layer of discovery—from cultural ceremonies and local markets to wreck dives and jungle hikes. This is an immersive voyage into the heart of Melanesian life, where ancient customs and legends are passed down through generations and the land remains largely untouched by modern tourism.

Whether you're seeking a hands-on sailing experience or a journey of cultural exploration, the Vanuatu Islands Discovery Cruise promises adventure, connection, and the rare chance to experience one of the South Pacific’s most spectacular and soulful destinations by sea.

Expedition Description

Port Vila

Port Vila, the bustling capital of Vanuatu located on the island of Efate, is the ideal launching point for any Vanuatu sailing expedition. This vibrant waterfront city offers a unique blend of French, British, and Melanesian cultures, visible in its architecture, cuisine, and warm hospitality. As one of the main ports of entry, Port Vila is equipped with excellent facilities for provisioning, customs clearance, and final voyage preparations.

Before setting sail, take time to explore the lively markets where local produce, spices, and handmade crafts fill the air with colour and culture. The nearby Mele Cascades provide a refreshing escape into lush jungle terrain, while the underwater world just offshore teems with coral reefs ideal for snorkelling and diving. The area’s rich WWII history adds another layer of intrigue for those interested in Vanuatu’s past.

Port Vila is more than a practical starting point—it’s a place to absorb the local rhythm of island life. Dine in open-air restaurants, learn about Ni-Vanuatu traditions, and enjoy panoramic views of Iririki Island and the harbour beyond. It’s the perfect first chapter in your Vanuatu sailing story.

Espiritu Santo

Espiritu Santo, the largest island in Vanuatu, is a true paradise for sailors seeking both adventure and natural beauty. Known for its world-class dive sites, Espiritu Santo is home to the famous SS President Coolidge wreck—one of the most accessible shipwreck dives in the world. Beyond diving, the island offers picture-perfect beaches such as Champagne Beach and Lonnoc Beach, renowned for their powdery white sand and turquoise waters.

The island’s inland treasures include a series of spectacular freshwater Blue Holes, such as Nanda and Matevulu, which glow with an almost surreal intensity. These magical pools are ideal for swimming and kayaking, surrounded by dense jungle and tropical birdsong. Santo’s hinterlands offer opportunities to hike through coconut plantations and small villages where you can experience authentic Ni-Vanuatu life.

Espiritu Santo's historical significance and ecological diversity make it a highlight on any Vanuatu sailing itinerary. Whether you’re exploring underwater wonders, soaking in natural beauty, or learning about its WWII past, Espiritu Santo delivers unforgettable moments in every anchorage.

Malekula

Malekula Island is Vanuatu’s second-largest island and one of its most culturally significant destinations. Famed for its traditional kastom villages, Malekula offers a rare opportunity to witness the customs and rituals of the Big Nambas and Small Nambas tribes. These unique cultural groups maintain deeply rooted traditions, passed down through generations and proudly shared with respectful visitors.

Sailors exploring Malekula will find a rugged and unspoiled coastline dotted with secluded bays, volcanic rock formations, and hidden anchorages. Inland, guided treks reveal rainforests, waterfalls, and tribal meeting grounds. Visiting a local village may include a traditional welcome ceremony, storytelling through dance, and intricate displays of body art and weaving.

For those seeking immersive cultural tourism combined with natural beauty, Malekula is a top sailing stop. Its remoteness enhances its authenticity, making it a powerful and memorable destination that stays with you long after the sails are down.

Maskelyne Islands

The Maskelyne Islands, located off the southeastern coast of Malekula, are a hidden treasure for sailors craving tranquility and connection. This collection of small, low-lying islands is known for its calm anchorages, traditional villages, and stunning coral reefs. It’s a place where time slows down, and the rhythm of the tides guides your day.

Snorkelling and diving in the Maskelynes is exceptional, with coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, reef sharks, and colourful invertebrates. The protected waters are also perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding, allowing sailors to explore mangroves and quiet lagoons at their own pace. The islands’ shallow coral shelves make them one of Vanuatu’s most biodiverse marine regions.

Culturally, the Maskelynes offer an authentic window into Ni-Vanuatu village life. Friendly locals welcome visiting yachts and are often happy to share their fishing, weaving, and storytelling traditions. These islands are a reminder of the power of simplicity—where nature and community come together in a truly harmonious way.

Penama Province

Penama Province, encompassing the islands of Pentecost, Ambae, and Maewo, offers sailors a rich blend of cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. Pentecost Island is renowned for its traditional land diving ceremony, known as Nagol, where men leap from towering wooden platforms with vines tied to their ankles—a ritual believed to ensure a bountiful yam harvest and considered the precursor to modern bungee jumping. Witnessing this awe-inspiring event, typically held between April and June, provides a profound insight into the island's deep-rooted traditions.​

Ambae Island, often referred to as the 'Island of Paradise,' captivates visitors with its lush rainforests and the mystical Lake Manaro, a volcanic crater lake shrouded in local legend. The island's serene villages offer a glimpse into the daily lives of the Ni-Vanuatu people, where traditional practices and communal living remain integral to society. Sailors can anchor in secluded bays, exploring the island's natural beauty and engaging with welcoming communities.​

Maewo Island is celebrated for its abundant waterfalls, verdant valleys, and pristine beaches. The island's rugged terrain is interspersed with cascading streams and dense forests, making it a haven for eco-enthusiasts. Maewo's villages are among the most traditional in Vanuatu, offering sailors the opportunity to experience authentic customs, including intricate weaving and vibrant dances that have been preserved for generations.​

Malampa Province

Malampa Province, comprising the islands of Malekula, Ambrym, and Paama, presents a diverse array of experiences for sailors navigating Vanuatu's waters. Ambrym Island, known as the 'Black Magic Island,' is famed for its active volcanoes, Mount Benbow and Mount Marum. The island's volcanic ash plains create a stark, otherworldly landscape that has inspired numerous local legends. Visitors can embark on guided treks to the volcanic craters, witnessing the raw power of nature and gaining insight into the island's mystical reputation.​

Malekula Island, the second-largest in Vanuatu, is a cultural mosaic, home to the Small Nambas and Big Nambas tribes, each with distinct customs and traditions. Sailing along Malekula's coastline reveals secluded bays and traditional villages where visitors are welcomed with ceremonial dances and storytelling. The island's intricate sand drawings, recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage, offer a glimpse into the rich artistic expressions of its people.​

Paama Island, though smaller in size, offers serene beaches and a tranquil atmosphere. The island's close-knit communities are known for their hospitality, inviting sailors to partake in local feasts and cultural events. Paama's surrounding waters are rich in marine life, providing excellent opportunities for snorkeling and fishing in an unspoiled environment.​

Shefa Province

Shefa Province, home to Vanuatu's capital, Port Vila, and the picturesque Shepherd Islands, offers a blend of urban amenities and natural attractions. Port Vila serves as a hub for provisioning and exploring local markets, while the nearby Mele Cascades provide a refreshing retreat into nature. The city's waterfront is lined with restaurants and cafes, offering a taste of Vanuatu's culinary diversity.​

The Shepherd Islands, a group of volcanic islands between Efate and Epi, are characterized by lush vegetation and traditional villages. Sailing through this archipelago reveals secluded anchorages and vibrant coral reefs, ideal for snorkeling and diving. The islands' inhabitants maintain a subsistence lifestyle, with customs and rituals that have remained largely unchanged over the years, providing an authentic cultural experience for visitors.​

Efate Island, beyond hosting the capital, boasts a rugged coastline dotted with hidden coves and sandy beaches. The island's interior is crisscrossed with hiking trails leading to panoramic viewpoints and cascading waterfalls. Sailing around Efate offers a mix of bustling port scenes and tranquil natural beauty, encapsulating the diverse experiences that Shefa Province has to offer.​

Sanma Province

Sanma Province, centered around Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu's largest island, is a treasure trove of natural wonders and historical sites. Espiritu Santo's pristine beaches, such as Champagne Beach and Lonnoc Beach, are renowned for their powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters, providing idyllic settings for relaxation and water activities. The island's lush interior hides the enchanting Blue Holes, deep freshwater pools surrounded by tropical foliage, perfect for swimming and kayaking.​

For history enthusiasts, Espiritu Santo offers a glimpse into its significant role during World War II. The SS President Coolidge, a luxury liner-turned-troopship that sank off the island's coast, now serves as one of the world's most accessible and fascinating dive sites. Exploring this underwater museum reveals wartime artifacts and marine life that have made the wreck their home.​

Sailing through Sanma Province provides a harmonious blend of adventure and tranquility. Whether diving into the depths of historical shipwrecks, lounging on secluded beaches, or engaging with the friendly locals in coastal villages, visitors are immersed in the rich tapestry of experiences that define this remarkable region of Vanuatu.​

ACTIVITIES INCLUDED

Click the links above to review examples from previous sailing events across New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific Islands.

HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL EXPERIENCE ONBOARD

Click the links above to review examples from previous sailing events across New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific Islands.

Extra reading

• Past events

• Why sail with us?

Review sailing calendar for all events