Vanuatu
YOUR DIVING HOLIDAY SPECIALIST
Dive Adventures Vanuatu ©Kirklandphotos.com
Vanuatu, is an archipelago of 83 coral and volcanic islands sprinkled across 450,000 square kilometres of the South Pacific Ocean. This untouched paradise is only a few flying hours from the east coast of Australia. It’s closest neighbours are: Fiji to the east, New Caledonia to the south and the Solomon islands to the north. The group of islands formally known as the New Hebrides, was declared a condominium in 1906 with the British Queen and the French President as joint heads of state. As the economy grew, the Melanesian people became more active in their own politics and began dreaming of independence. In 1980 the dream became a reality with the first President of the Republic being elected and Vanuatu, which means “our land” was born.
Happy Ni Vanuatu children
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Yasur Volcano - Tanna
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Vanuatu’s mountainous volcanic islands have forged dramatic and naturally beautiful scenic wonders, offering visitors a diversity of experiences. Palm fringed beaches lead to crystal-clear waters and the surrounding coral reefs are rich with marine life. Rugged mountains rise above lush, tropical rainforests bursting with magnificent flora and fauna and cascading waterfalls, blue lagoons, and bubbling hot springs. Volcanic activity can still be observed on the islands of Tanna, Ambrym and Lopevi.
General Information: Climate: Summer: November to March average temperatures of 28°C . Winter: April to October average temperatures of 23°C . Water Temperature: Varies from 21°C–27°C. The People: Mostly Melanesian, known as Ni Vanuatu Language:The official language of Vanuatu is Bislama (Pidgin English) English and French and are also widely spoken. Currency: The Vatu is the local currency. Australian dollars and most of the major credit cards, are accepted at mainland hotels, resorts and restaurants. Outer islands will vary. Electricity: 220-240 volts 50Hz. Dress: Light casual clothing, a sweater for the cooler evenings. Clothing should not be too brief, especially when worn outside the hotel perimeters. Medical: Malaria precautions may be necessary when visiting some of the outer lying islands. Please check with your doctor for the most up to date information regarding your destination before you depart.
Entry Requirements: A valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity from time of departure, as well as a return or ongoing travel ticket is required. Australian citizens do not require an entry visa. Visas are also not required for most Commonwealth, European Union or U.S citizens. We advise checking with your travel agent.
Aerial view of Port Vila
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Port Vila, on the main island of Efate is the capital and gateway to your adventure holiday. Vila is a delightful water-front town with a selection of fine cuisine restaurants, duty-free shopping and a bustling market place. Vila has a large variety of accommodation ranging from self-contained units, through to 4 star International resorts all within easy reach of the town centre. The vibrant Melanesian culture, welcoming smiles and natural warmth of the people will ensure your Vanuatu experience will be a relaxed and memorable one.
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Take the plunge in Vanuatu
Palm fringed beaches
Diving: Vanuatu offers world class diving and a variety of dive sites suitable for the novice, through to the most experienced of divers. The warm, clear waters feature protected marine sanctuaries teeming with sea-life, shallow reefs to deep drop-offs, caves and numerous wrecks, all waiting to be explored. Of course diving in Vanuatu would not be complete without a visit to the majestic island of Espiritu Santo to explore the “SS. President Coolidge” one of the world’s largest and most accessible ship wrecks.
Diving - Port Vila Port Vila has a variety of dive sites with visibility of up to 40 metres. The outer areas of Mele Bay and the off shore islands of North Efate offer deep drop-offs, grottoes and overhangs with underwater tunnels and chasms formed over time by frozen lava. The running currents bring in an abundance of marine life and pelagic species. Inside the protected waters of Mele Bay lay several ship wrecks. The "Star of Russia", a three-masted ship built in 1874 sits in 33 meters of water. The “Konanda” was formally an island trader, before being scuttled in the Exploring one of the wrecks harbour. The “Tasman” is an ex-Qantas Sandringham flying boat. Further out in the bay is the “MV Semle Federsen” sitting at 36 meters.
Big Blue Diving and Nautilus Scuba are Port Vila’s 2 main dive operators. Each operator offers a full range of dive courses, facilities, guides, and dive gear for sale or hire. Both are located on the waterfront, in the centre of Port Vila. Weather permitting the dive boats depart daily for diving around the Port Vila and Northern Efate areas. Both operators will pick up and drop divers back to their accommodation in Port Vila.
Friendly marine life - Port Vila
Hideaway Island - Port Vila
Aerial view - Hideaway Island
Hideaway Island Resort and Marine Sanctuary is set on it’s own private island, just a 10 minute ride from Port Vila and than another 5 minutes by ferry to the island. The island is surrounded by coral reef and crystal clear waters of Mele Bay and has been declared a protected Marine Sanctuary. Diving: Hideaway is one of only a few resorts in the world to have it’s own protected marine sanctuary. The reef in front of the resort is teeming with brilliantly coloured fish and marine life, they can be explored by snorkelling or diving straight from the shore. The diving around Hideaway features a variety of colourful sponges, hard corals, sea anemones, gorgonian fans and an amazing number of tropical fish. The consistently clear water and prolific marine life make Hideaway Island one of the most popular dive areas in Vanuatu. The resort has it’s own independent PADI dive operation staffed by professional instructors and dive guides. They offer a complete range of dive courses, shore dives, boat dives and gear hire. Hideaway Resort also boasts the world’s first authentic, under-water post office sitting at a depth of 3 metres. Visitors can dive or snorkel down and post their own specially waterproofed postcards to friends and family back home. Exploring Marine Sanctuary - Hideaway Island
Hideaway Resort offers a variety of accommodation styles to suit most tastes and budgets. Each is set in lush, tropical gardens, facing out over the waters of Mele Bay. One-bedroom Bungalows: Have separate bedroom, private bathroom facilities, fridge, ceiling fans, sofa, dining setting and tea and coffee making facilities. The Beach Lodge: Offers double or twin-share rooms with shared bathroom facilities. Each room contains ceiling fan, fridge and a wash basin. There is a wide wraparound veranda for relaxation. The Dormitory: Features quad-share rooms containing two sets of bunk beds, individual lighting and storage lockers with shared bathroom facilities. The communal lounge area has a TV, DVD’s and games and is perfect for groups or individuals travelling on a limited budget. Hideaway Island’s main bar and restaurant is situated right on the waters edge where you can Inside One-bedroom bungalow - Hideaway enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, great views and good quality meals and drinks at affordable prices. Activities available include: snorkelling, diving, paddleboards, sea kayaking, sailing and beach volleyball. View the marine sanctuary from the comfort of the glass-bottom boat or join one of the many tours on offer. Waterfront restaurant - Hideaway Island
The Melanesian - Port Vila This popular tourist class hotel and resort is only 15 minutes from the airport and within easy walking distance to Port Vila’s town centre with its shops, Poolside at The Melanesian restaurants and markets. The Melanesian has a range of spacious and well appointed rooms and represents good value for money. It is convenient for short stop over or an extended stay in Port Vila.
Facilities: All rooms are air-conditioned with an en-suite bathroom, private balcony, queen size and a single bed (additional rollaway beds are available on request), TV with in-house movies, refrigerator, mini bar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities and an in-room safe. The resort offers: Orchid room - The Melanesian 2 restaurants and bars a club with gaming facilities, 24 hour room service, an adults and kids size swimming pool, deck chairs, a BBQ area, tennis court, gift shop, library, games room, a tour desk and conference facilities.
Iririki Island Resort - Port Vila Located exclusively in Port Vila Harbour, opposite the centre of town, Iririki Island Resort offers 2 different styles of accommodation. One side of the island offers well appointed fares (bungalows) with either garden or water views. This area of the resort caters for adults only and has a pool, restaurant and spa. Iririki Island Resort
On the other side of the island is Snorkeler’s Cove, a new and ultra modern resort featuring a range of self contained units and penthouses. The rooms offer stunning ocean or pool views and children are welcome and catered for in this area of the resort. Facilities: All accommodation is air-conditioned with private balcony and en-suite bathroom, bar fridge, television, in house movies and direct dial telephone. The resort features 4 dining options, 2 swimming pools, tennis courts, games room, and a health and beauty spa. Complimentary use of non-motorized water sports is included for all guests staying at the resort, including snorkelling, sailboards, catamarans and canoes. Inside Harbour view Fare
Breaka’s Resort - Port Vila
Poolside - Breaka’s Resort
Breaka’s Beach Resort is a romantic, boutique style property catering for adults only. Located just 20 minutes from Port Vila Airport the resort is set amongst lush tropical gardens on a white sand beach fringed with palm trees. The private and stylish bungalows are scattered along the beach and throughout the neatly manicured gardens. The bungalows are comfortably furnished in a relaxed Melanesian styled elegance, using all local materials and artifacts. Breaka’s Beach Resort is a great location for a romantic honeymoon or secluded getaway. Note: Children under 15 are not catered for at Breaka’s.
Facilities: Each bungalow has a uniquely styled spacious and private “open air“ bathroom, queen-size bed, ceiling fan, mini bar, tea and coffee making Inside bungalow facilities, phone and hair dryer. The resort’s restaurant and bar is situated poolside with panoramic water views. The 22 metre infinity pool designed to accommodate diving lessons, has a swim-up bar and plenty of room for relaxation.
Coconut Palms Resort - Port Vila Coconut Palms Resort is situated close to the heart of Port Vila and all the amenities the town has on offer. The resort surrounded by coconut palms and tropical gardens offers a range of accommodation categories from dormitory rooms suitable for small groups, the single or just budget conscious traveler, through to the self contained apartments suitable for couples and families.
Coconut Palms Resort
Facilities: The dormitory room sleeps up to four people in bunk beds. The rooms are clean and comfortable and have their own balcony and shared bathroom facilities. The self contained units are air conditioned and comfortably furnished with a queen size bed, TV, in-house movies, full cooking facilities, fridge microwave and BBQ. The resort has restaurant and bar, café, laundromat, internet café facilities and a swimming pool designed for doing laps. Inside unit accommodation
Tranquillity Island Resort - Northern Efate Tranquillity Island Inside “Fare” -Tranquility Island Resort is a remote eco-tourism resort situated on Moso Island north west of Efate. The transfer from Port Vila to Tranquillity takes approximately 40 minutes by road and then a further 30 minutes by boat. Tranquillities proximity to many of the great dive sites including Paul’s Rock and Hat Island, make it a popular day trip destination for divers. Guests staying on the island can visit the turtle sanctuary, snorkel straight from the beach in front of the resort, take guided bush walks or take canoe rides or fishing trips. Due to the remote nature of the island the amenities and facilities at Tranquillity are basic and limited.
Facilities: There is no constant electricity supply or running hot water. These facilities are available for several hours each day. Accommodation is in rustic “Robinson Crusoe-style” huts called fares. The fares are situated throughout the island mainly on the waters edge and are comfortable but very basic. The fares feature rustic hand-made furniture and private bathroom facilities with a flush toilet and shower. All meals are included during your stay and are served in an undercover common area called the Beach House. The atmosphere on Tranquillity is friendly, very laid back and relaxed. Turtles are fairly common around Tranquillity
Espiritu Santo ©Kirklandphotos.com
Espiritu Santo is approximately one hour’s flight north from Port Vila. Santo is an island of beautiful white sandy beaches, tropical rainforest, mountainous terrain and a treasure trove of WWII history. It is the island that inspired Local customs are strong in Santo James A. Michener to write his classic “Tales of the South Pacific”. Espiritu Santo has a majestic beauty that has changed very little over the centuries. There’s the mysterious and amazing “blue-water” swimming holes that are connected by underground caverns, the reef systems of colourful corals are teeming with a variety of marine life, while the tropical rainforests are home to the numerous jungle birds and beautiful wild orchids.
“SS President Coolidge” For scuba divers Espiritu Santo is the Mecca of diving in the South Pacific. It is the final resting place of the 198 metre long 22,000 ton former luxury liner turned troopship, the “SS President Coolidge”. Complete with munitions, military supplies and personal belongings it is one of the largest and most accessible wrecks in the world. In 1941 as war time activities increased, the US War Department began to use the President Coolidge for occasional voyages to Honolulu and Manila. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 5, 1941 she was fully commissioned as a transport ship for reinforcing garrisons in the Pacific. She was stripped of her finery, painted gun-metal grey and by early 1942, the SS President Coolidge had begun her days servicing the South West Pacific.
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Exploring one of the many spectacular corners- Santo
SS President Coolidge prior WWII
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During the “Pacific Campaign” of WW II, over 100,000 allied troops and support staff were stationed on Santo. Evidence of their time spent there is still noticeable today. The remains of crashed B17 bombers, deserted Dakotas and WW II storage shelters are scattered throughout the thick jungles while many wrecks rests below the surface of the clear blue waters. The township of Luganville is the capital of Espiritu Santo and features a range of accommodation from hotels to beach front resorts, restaurants, coffee shops a sports club and dive shops.
One of the many magical “Blue Holes” - Santo
As a troop carrier it was never intended to see any action. A large military base and harbor had been established on Espiritu Santo with harbor heavily protected by mines. Information about safe entry into the harbor had been accidentally omitted from the Coolidge’s sailing orders and upon her approach to Santo on October 26 1942 the SS Coolidge, fearing Japanese submarines and unaware of the mines attempted to enter the harbor through the largest and most accessible channel. A friendly mine struck the ship near the engine room and moments later a second mine hit her near the stern. The captain, knowing that he was going to loose the ship ran her aground and ordered troops to abandon ship. Today the Coolidge is protected by Vanuatu law and provides endless enjoyment for divers. Her dual identity means that divers see a luxury cruise liner and military ship on a single dive. Coral grows all around the wreck and many sea creatures such as sea turtles and moDivers on the stern of the ship. ray eels call the wreck home.
Espiritu Santo Other popular dive sites around Santo include: The wreck of the destroyer USS Tucker just off Malo Island. It has a number of interesting swim-throughs (max depth 20 meters), portholes and open bulkheads providing plenty of light. Fish regularly seen include coral trout, cod, sweet lip, angle fish and batfish. Visibility is normally 40 - 50 meters. Fantastic is a boat dive at 26 – 42m in depth. This dive features sea mountains covered with masses of large Gorgonian fan corals. The site generally has good visibility and fish life but does require calmer weather. Tutuba Point is also a boat dive at 6 - 25m Diver exploring “President Coolidge” depth. This spectacular reef has both hard and soft corals, caves, swim-throughs and a variety of beautiful marine life. Some of the friendly locals - Santo This is a drift dive with fantastic visibility of 40 - 50 meters (132 - 165 feet). Common sightings include turtles, reef sharks and Napolean wrasse. The site is located at the northern tip of Tutuba Island, just a short boat ride from Luganville.
Resting in the warm, tropical waters of Santo, the SS President Coolidge is an underwater playground for any diver. Diving on the Coolidge can be done from a boat, but it is more commonly dived from shore via a 50 metre walk line that leads down to the ship's bow. Visibility ranges from 15 to 35 metres. Not far from the Coolidge is another popular dive site "Million Dollar Point". At the end of the war, the U.S. Navy disposed of tonnes of machinery and supplies, by dumping it in the waters around Santo. Luganville has a number of dive operators who cater for diving on the Coolidge and other sites around Santo. The 2 main operators are Aquamarine and Allan Power Dive Tours who has been “the caretaker” of the Coolidge for over 35 years. Both operators offer boat and shore dives, Nitrox facilities, gear hire and professional dive guides services. Luxury liner “SS President Coolidge”
“Lady & the Unicorn”
Deco Stop Lodge - Espiritu Santo ©cheser
Panoramic view of Deco Stop Lodge
Deco Stop Lodge is nestled on a hillside just 5 minutes from the centre of Luganville. Offering panoramic views overlooking Segond Canal, Deco Stop Lodge is for those seeking budget accommodation in relaxed and comfortable surroundings. The lodge offers quad-share dormitory rooms, as well as a number of private units with a double and single bed. The resort has a common area for sharing a meal with friends and socialising around a swimming pool with an infinity edge and great view. The friendly staff can help arrange a number of Island tours including a visit to local custom villages, the spectacular Millennium Caves, Blue Holes or Champagne Beach.
Facilities: All rooms are fan cooled with private bathroom facilities, bar fridge, tea and coffee making facilities. The rooms are made up daily with clean Dormitory room - Deco Stop Lodge linen, towels and floral arrangements. There is a lockable wash area, where divers can wash and dry their dive gear. Laundry facilities are available. The lodge has an on-site restaurant and bar, swimming pool with ample deck space for relaxing. Our Comments: Clean, comfortable, budget accommodation with friendly staff and a casual atmosphere.
Coral Quays Resort - Espiritu Santo Bungalow accommodation
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Coral Quays Fish and Dive Resort is located on San Michele Bay, just 10 minutes from the township of Luganville. Set amongst 6 acres of tropical gardens the property offers a number of spacious bungalows with garden or bay views. The resort has a relaxed atmosphere with that old south seas charm. A variety of tours to local villages, popular historical sites and surrounding areas can be arranged. Facilities: The bungalows are either air-conditioned or fan-cooled with private bathroom facilities, a bar fridge,
tea and coffee making facilities and an outdoor setting. The resort has a restaurant and bar offering fine dining inside, or alfresco on the veranda, overlooking the bay. Other facilities include a swimming pool, spa with massage facilities, a terraced area and canoes for hire. Our Comments: for the more discerning diver, honeymooners and those seeking a private, relaxing retreat. Poolside - Coral Quays Resort
Hotel Santo - Espiritu Santo Hotel Santo is located in the township of Luganville, just 5 minutes from Santo airport. The two storey hotel has been providing accommodation for travellers coming to Poolside - Hotel Santo Santo, since the early 1970’s. The hotel offers 22 standard rooms and a number of budget rooms, popular with divers. Half day and full day tours to Blue Hole and Champagne Beach are available on request.
Facilities: The Standard rooms are air-conditioned with a queen and single bed, private bathroom facilities, bar fridge, tea and coffee making facilities and private balcony offering garden or bay views. The Budget rooms are fan cooled have 2 single beds, private bathroom facilities bar fridge and garden terrace. The hotel has a restaurant, bar and swimming pool. Our Comment: A quality hotel offering good value and close to all amenities. Budget divers room - Hotel Santo
Aore Island Resort - Espiritu Santo Aore Island is located 3 kms across the water from mainland Santo, just a ten minute boat ride from Luganville. The resort situated on 20 acres, fronts a pristine, white sandy beach and backs onto a 900 acre coconut plantation and tropical jungle. Accommodation is in private bungalows with a choice of beachfront, deluxe beachfront and garden views. The open air restaurant is right on the beach. You can visit the island’s working coconut plantation or take a picnic lunch to scenic Turtle Island.
Aore Island Resort
Facilities: Each private bungalow has a balcony with beach or garden views, ensuite bathroom, fridge, fans, and tea and coffee making facilities. A swimming pool, snorkelling Bedroom - Beachfront Bungalow gear and kayaks are available for use by guests. Our Comment: A private, tranquil, island retreat close enough to all the great diving spots.
Beachfront Resort - Espiritu Santo Beachfront Resort is located just 10 minutes south west from Luganville. The resort overlooks Aore Island and tranquil waters of Segond Channel. The sandy beach in front of the resort is great for swimming and kayaking. There is plenty of grass area to enjoy a game of volleyball or you can just relax whilst enjoying the view from the bar and outside terrace area. The property offers a range of accommodation, from the newly built divers cottage, to the self contained bungalows, with garden or water views. There is a secure area for drying and storing your dive gear and computer facilities for the internet and down loading of digital camera images. Inside unit - Beachfront Resort
Facilities: Units - Beachfront Resort All bungalows are self contained with a kitchenette, fridge, private bathroom, fan cooled or air conditioning and balcony. The lodge has 3 rooms with 4 singles and 1 double bed, a full kitchen, 2 bathrooms and large veranda. The resort has a licensed restaurant and bar and laundry facilities. Our Comment: A comfortable, good value resort offering kitchen facilities and close to all the amenities and dive sites.
Bokissa Private Island Resort - Espiritu Santo Bokissa Island Resort Poolside - Bokissa Resort is a 30 minute boat ride from Santo. Set on 175 acres this exclusive resort is surrounded by lush tropical rainforest and bordered by sandy, palm fringed beaches Accommodation is in luxurious private bungalows, all facing out over the water. All meals are included in your stay at Bokissa. Weddings and conferences for up to 40 people are catered for. The resort has it’s own well equipped dive operation, reference library and reading lounge. Other activities include beach volleyball, garden chess, fishing and free use of non-motorised water sports.
Facilities: All bungalows have a covered verandah, air conditioning and ceiling fans, screened timber shutters, ensuite bathroom, hot shower, fridge with mini bar, tea and coffee making facilities and hairdryer. Hammocks hang from trees out front. The 25 metre freshwater swimming pool has a swim-up bar, large upper pool deck with recliners, umbrellas and ornamental waterfall. Meals are served in the a la carte/ buffet restaurant The island bar is a great place to relax with a fine cocktail. Our Comment: A romantic “paradise lost” experience for the discerning traveller. Inside “Beachfront Fare”
Tanna Island
Peeking inside the volcano - Tanna
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The Island of Tanna is a 45 minute flight south from Port Vila. Tanna is quite different from the rest of Vanuatu. Home to Yasur, the world’s most accessible active volcano. The island is steeped in centuries old customs and traditions and mysterious cargo cult worship. Beautiful wild horses run free through the stark contrasting landscapes of thick tropical jungle and baron moonscape ash plains.
View Yasur, travel by 4 WD through the highlands, past coffee plantations, wild horses and villages. Cross the moon-scape ash plains to the mountain. It’s by foot to the crater’s rim. Marvel at nature’s awesome power and witness the glowing vents of lava and magma, spurting up into the evening sky. “Yasur” at night.
White Grass Ocean Resort - Tanna Island Restaurant - White Grass Resort
White Grass Ocean Resort is set on 6 acres of landscaped gardens leading down to a private white sandy beach. The resort’s restaurant and bar has panoramic ocean views. Facilities at the resort include a swimming pool, guest library, tennis court, volleyball net and 9 hole putt-putt golf course. You can snorkel on the nearby virgin reefs, visit the turtle and coconut sanctuary. Experience Volcano and custom village safaris. © Chesher
Accommodation is in well appointed, private bungalows with Melanesian style décor. Each bungalow has a covered verandah, ensuite bathroom with hot water, tiled floors, ceiling fans, queen size bed with mosquito nets and Inside bungalow screens and tea and coffee making facilities. Our Comment: A little piece of luxury in a world that seems so far away. © Chesher
Leneai Palms Resort - Tanna Island Leneai Palms Resort is set in tranquil gardens with sweeping views over the Pacific Ocean. The property has an open-air island restaurant and bar. The fresh cooked meals are of a high standard and reasonably priced. The friendly staff at Leneai Palms will ensure your stay will be an enjoyable one.
Bungalow accommodation
View from the Resort Accommodation is in individual bungalows with queen and single beds private ensuite bathrooms with hot showers and flush toilets, constant electricity supply, private veranda and quality furniture. Our Comments: Great base to explore the sights of Tanna. Value for money accommodation and package deals including all meals and several tours are available.
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