Vanuatu
Oceanic Pacific: volcanic islands, waterfalls, land diving and welcoming villages
Overview
Vanuatu is a string of volcanic islands punctuated by cascading waterfalls, with most of the smokers now extinct, although Mt Ambrym and Mt Yasur are both gently active. Pentecost, in the north of the island chain, is the home of ceremonial "land diving", often thought to be the origin of bungee jumping.
Port Vila is a delightful tropical capital with a strong sense of its Melanesian identity. Further afield, those travelling by water find friendly and welcoming villages for whom contact with the outside world is often restricted to visiting superyachts.
The best cruising is from April to October, on the south-east trade winds. Please note that travel to Vanuatu may be restricted - refer to the Department of Vanuatu Immigration for the most up-to-date information.
Islands & Map
Map Key - Ports & Islands
- Port Vila (Efate); VHF 16
- Luganville (Espiritu Santo); VHF 12
- Tanna (Mt Yasur)
✈ Bauerfield International Airport (Port Vila)
Land diving on Pentecost. Mt Yasur is an accessible active volcano on Tanna.
Getting There & Clearance
Clearance
Clearance is handled by the Immigration Department and the Vanuatu Customs & Inland Revenue Department. The ports of entry are Port Vila on Efate (VHF 16) and Luganville on Espiritu Santo (VHF 12). Entry requirements can change, so check current advice before arrival.
Government Contacts
Immigration: governmentofvanuatu.gov.vu
Customs: customsinlandrevenue.gov.vu
International Airports
Bauerfield International (Port Vila) · Santo-Pekoa International · White Grass (Tanna).
Key Anchorages
Havana Harbour & Lamen Bay (Efate) · Aore & Oyster Island (Santo) · Maskelyne Islands · Tanna.
Local Services
Agents
Vanuatu Yacht Services · Melanesian Luxury Yachts
Moorings
Yachting World Vanuatu (Port Vila)
Marine Supplies
Vila Marine
Repair
Port Vila Boatyard
Diving
Nautilus Watersports
Association
Vanuatu Yacht & Superyacht Association
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do superyachts clear in to Vanuatu?
The ports of entry are Port Vila on Efate (VHF 16) and Luganville on Espiritu Santo (VHF 12), handled by the Immigration Department and the Vanuatu Customs and Inland Revenue Department.
When is the best time to cruise Vanuatu?
The best cruising is from April to October, on the south-east trade winds. Entry requirements can change, so current advice should be checked before arrival.
What can superyachts see in Vanuatu?
Vanuatu offers volcanic islands, cascading waterfalls, the accessible active volcano of Mt Yasur on Tanna, ceremonial land diving on Pentecost, and welcoming villages reached only by water.
Where can superyachts berth in Vanuatu?
Port Vila on Efate is the main hub, with moorings at Yachting World Vanuatu and boatyard services, plus anchorages at Havana Harbour, around Espiritu Santo and in the Maskelyne Islands.