Vanuatu

Why visit Vanuatu? 

Untouched beauty

Vanuatu is one of the last places on earth still mostly untouched by the forces of western consumerism. People still live a simple organic small village life.

Vanuatu: A Yachtsman's Paradise

Vanuatu, a captivating archipelago nestled in the South Pacific, is a sailor's dream come true. With its pristine waters, idyllic islands, and friendly locals, this tropical paradise offers an unforgettable yachting experience. Here's why you should consider sailing around Vanuatu:


Unspoiled Natural Beauty

Vanuatu is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. Imagine sailing past volcanic islands with lush rainforests, pristine white-sand beaches and the amazing black sand beaches, crystal-clear lagoons. The underwater world is equally mesmerizing, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life. Whether you're an avid snorkeler or diver, Vanuatu offers countless opportunities to explore the ocean's depths.


Diverse Island Culture

Vanuatu is a cultural melting pot, with a fascinating blend of Melanesian, Polynesian, and European influences. Each island has its unique customs, traditions, and languages. Visiting different islands allows you to experience the rich diversity of Vanuatu's culture. You can witness traditional custom ceremonies, learn about local crafts and arts, or simply interact with the friendly and welcoming locals.


Ideal Sailing Conditions

Vanuatu enjoys consistent trade winds throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for sailing. The prevailing winds are generally South Easterly, providing steady breezes for sailing between islands. The waters are relatively calm but regularly hit the 20 and 30 knots, some great down wind runs except when trying to sail South. This makes sailing around Vanuatu a relatively easy and enjoyable experience, even for less experienced sailors.


Abundant Anchorages and at least one Marina

Vanuatu offers a wide range of anchorages and one marina. From secluded coves and bays to bustling towns and villages, there's always a place to drop anchor and explore. Many anchorages provide excellent protection from the elements, while others offer amenities like water, food, and fuel. Some of the most popular yachting destinations in Vanuatu include Port Vila, Espiritu Santo, Tanna, and Pentecost.


Friendly and Welcoming Locals

The people of Vanuatu are known for their warmth, friendliness, and hospitality. They are always eager to share their culture and traditions with visitors. Whether you're exploring a local market, dining at a beachfront restaurant, or simply chatting with locals, you'll be greeted with smiles and genuine kindness.


Adventure and Exploration

Vanuatu is a playground for adventure seekers. You can hike through lush rainforests, explore volcanic craters, or swim in hidden waterfalls. For the more adventurous, there are opportunities to dive with sharks, kayak through mangrove forests, or even climb active volcanoes. Vanuatu offers endless possibilities for exploration and discovery.


Affordable Cost of Living

Compared to many other tropical destinations, Vanuatu offers a relatively affordable cost of living for yachtsmen. Food, fuel, and other essential supplies are reasonably priced if you can find them. Local food from the markets is cheap and generally available. There are plenty of affordable accommodation options available. This makes it possible to enjoy a comfortable and enjoyable island experience without breaking the bank.


Safety and Security

Vanuatu is generally a safe and secure country for visitors. The crime rate is low, and the locals are friendly and welcoming. While it's always important to exercise caution and common sense, you can feel confident sailing around Vanuatu without worrying about your safety.


Unique Experiences

Vanuatu offers a unique and unforgettable yachting experience that you won't find anywhere else in the world. From witnessing traditional custom ceremonies to exploring volcanic islands and diving with sharks, there's always something new and exciting to discover.


A Sense of Adventure

Sailing around Vanuatu is an adventure in itself. You'll experience the thrill of navigating through uncharted waters, discovering hidden coves and beaches, and meeting friendly locals along the way. The charts of the main island appear accurate however many small anchorages are very poorly charted or simply incorrect, I found google images and satellite images from Navionics provided invaluable information.   It's a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. Some friends purchased the rocket cruising guides, I tried several times but the paypal payment gateway prevented me several times maybe because I was not using my home home number.


In conclusion, Vanuatu is a must-visit destination for any yachtsman. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse culture, and ideal sailing conditions, this tropical paradise offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a novice, Vanuatu has something to offer everyone. So why not set sail and discover the hidden gems of this enchanting archipelago?

Islands I visited in Vanuatu