Answer the call of Vanuatu

Sailing Season

Vanuatu’s climate varies with latitude, from wet tropical in the northern islands, to the dryer subtropical in the southern extremes of the archipelago. Seasonal and
interannual variations in climate are driven by changes associated with El Niño.
Winds: November to April: Austral summer, hot and humid season, generally N-NE winds, air temp up to 30 °C, sea up to 28°C.
May to October: Austral winter, cooler and dryish season, generally SE winds (occasionally west), air temp around 22°C, sea temp average 20-22°C.

Local culture

The people of Vanuatu ensure the upholding of their ancient culture and traditions so future generations can also live in peace and harmony. Here are some examples:
The traditional sand drawings of the Ni-Vanuatu people. These intricate designs, drawn by hand in soft volcanic sand, are a living tradition, a form of storytelling and spiritual expression.
Recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.Sand drawings are a powerful symbol of Vanuatu’s deep cultural roots and artistic ingenuity. Each drawing holds generations of wisdom, passed down through memory and motion. Watching a sand drawing come to life is both peaceful and profound.
For yachties exploring the remote beauty of

The water music: Banks islands, the Water Music of Gaua is an experience not to be missed. Performed by local women, this rare and fascinating tradition turns
the ocean into a natural drum. Through rhythmic splashing, scooping, and clapping, the mamas and young girls create haunting melodies that echo generations of strength, storytelling, and deep cultural pride.

The Land Diving (Nagol): Often described as the ancestor of bungee jumping. Nagol is a heartpounding tradition where local men leap from
handmade wooden towers, vines tied to their ankles, in a breathtaking display of courage, cultural pride, and connection to the land. More than just
a thrill, these dives mark rites of passage and are believed to bless the yam harvest, a tradition deeply woven into the identity of the Ni-Vanuatu
people.

Sailing areas and anchorages

The six archipelagos of Vanuatu offers a variety of anchorages, each providing different levels of protection and amenities. When
anchoring, it’s important to be mindful of local regulations and environmental considerations. Some areas might have restrictions to protect marine life or
cultural sites. At small islands, always visit the chief of the village before exploring the island.

Other tourism highlights

Discover the stunning paradise of Vanuatu where cascading waterfalls and breathtaking natural wonders meet lush, cool jungles and white sandy beaches. All provinces have their own signature attractions from Torba’s women’s water music and snake dancers, pristine blue holes, world war 2 relics and champagne beach of Sanma, Penama’s daring land diving ritual, vibrant cultures, black magic, and ancient tribes in Malampa, Shefa being the international gateway is a mix potpourri of culture and gourmet, and the mighty Mount Yasur down south in Tafea province.

Marina: HING WORLD MARINA

Yachting World Marina in Port Vila offers a full range of services for visiting yachts, including a sea-wall marina, swing moorings, dinghy dock, laundry facilities, serviced apartments, fuel, a dinghy wharf, WiFi, and a restaurant & bar.
They also have limited stern-to berthing along the wall at Yachting World. Depth is 3m at the sea wall dropping down to 6m.
HAVANNAH PORT NEW MARINA Opening in February 2027, Port Havannah will offer marina berths and moorings, travel lift up to 60 tons, a jetty for fuel (with duty free fuel available on departure), basic mechanical repairs, welding, and general maintenance.

Marine services available

You’ll find marine services providers in Port Vila and Santo.

Customs process

Foreign vessels may enter and remain temporarily in Vanuatu without paying customs duty for up to 12 months, but only if the owner or individual using the boat is not a Vanuatu resident and does not work during his stay. Also, the boat shall not be sold, rented, or lent to a third party. After 12 months, the boat must be imported and importation taxes paid. Otherwise, the vessel must depart Vanuatu waters and enter another country for at least 24 hours.

Immigration Visa

For nationals from exempt countries, a 120-day tourist visa is granted upon entry. This cannot be renewed without exiting the country and returning. Cruisers from non-exempt countries need to apply for a 120-day visa and receive approval before traveling to Vanuatu.