Island cruise set to explore Vanuatu’s more remote islands

Vanuatu’s outer islands are becoming more accessible for travelers with boutique cruise company, Island Escape Cruises, announcing a new cruise departing from Espiritu Santo for a five day exploration of remote islands including Pentecost, Ambrym and Asanvari.

The luxury 10 cabin vessel will operate in Vanuatu over the winter season between May and October. There will be two five day Vanuatu itineraries to choose from – The Secrets of Bali Hai and The Tropic of Paradise. These can be combined for a ten night cruise if preferred.

The itineraries will cover remote islands, visiting the amazing land diving on Pentecost, the mystique and live volcanoes of Ambryn and the rainforests, natural swimming pools and waterfalls of Asanvari. Along the way passengers will visit the glorious beaches of Santo and anchor on the vibrant coral reef systems of the Maskelyne Islands.

Annie Niatu, general manager of the Vanuatu Tourism Office says, “We are pleased that Island Escapes is opening some of the outer islands up for travelers to discover the beauty and intrigue of these islands.

The operation also shows that Espiritu Santo is really emerging as a popular island option for Australian travelers.”

Since Air Vanuatu commenced direct flights from Brisbane to Espiritu Santo last year the destination has become increasingly attractive to Australian travelers. Espiritu Santo is graduating from primarily a dive Mecca and becoming a popular island paradise. The island is attracting a new cliental with more boutique style resorts opening each year.

This month Ratua Private Island will also open offering a level of sophistication that is being dubbed ‘primitive luxury’. Moyyan House by the Sea has also proved popular for those looking for an island getaway close to Australia.

After a few days experiencing Espiritu Santo travelers can hop aboard Island Escape Cruises to discover the mysteries of the surrounding island’s wildlife, and discover the rituals and festivals of the unique island cultures. The vessel has an expert local guide on board as well as small boats so that passengers have the freedom to discover their surrounding paradise however they choose.

Visit www.vanuatu.travel for more information on the destination

Visit www.islandescape.co.nz for more information, prices or to make a booking.