Vanuatu's crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life make it an ideal destination for watersports enthusiasts. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or seeking a serene aquatic experience, here are the top 10 watersports and water activities to enjoy in Vanuatu:
1. Snorkelling
How to do it: Grab your mask, snorkel, and fins to explore Vanuatu's stunning coral reefs. Many resorts and tour operators offer snorkelling trips to popular spots like Hideaway Island and the Blue Lagoon.
Where to Do It in Vanuatu:
- Hideaway Island Marine Sanctuary: Known for its underwater post office and vibrant coral reefs.
- Champagne Beach: Renowned for its clear waters and beautiful marine life.
- Million Dollar Point: Offers a unique experience of snorkelling around WWII relics.
How to Get Started:
Most snorkelling spots in Vanuatu have equipment available for rent. Guided snorkelling tours are also available, providing both equipment and expert knowledge of the best spots and marine life.
2. Scuba Diving
How to do it: Dive into the depths of Vanuatu’s marine wonders with a certified dive instructor. Discover vibrant coral gardens, WWII wreck sites like the SS President Coolidge, and encounter diverse marine life including turtles, rays, and colourful fish.
Where to Do It in Vanuatu:
- SS President Coolidge Wreck: One of the world’s largest accessible shipwrecks, offering a fascinating dive experience.
- Million Dollar Point: A dive site filled with WWII artefacts.
How to Get Started:
To scuba dive, you need to be certified. PADI and other certification courses are available in Vanuatu, with several dive shops and schools offering beginner to advanced courses.
3. Kayaking
How to do it: Rent a kayak or join a guided tour to paddle through Vanuatu’s calm bays, mangroves, and even explore hidden caves. It's a great way to enjoy the serenity of the islands from a unique perspective.
Where to Do It in Vanuatu:
- Erakor Lagoon: A tranquil spot ideal for leisurely paddling.
- Blue Holes: For a serene kayaking experience amidst natural beauty.
How to Get Started:
Kayak rentals are available at many resorts and beaches. Guided tours are also an excellent way to explore the lagoons and coastline - check out Vanuatu ecotours.
4. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
How to do it: Try SUP on Vanuatu’s tranquil waters for a core workout and peaceful exploration. Beginners can start in sheltered bays while more experienced paddlers might venture out to sea caves or along the coastline.
Where to Do It in Vanuatu:
- Port Vila Harbour: A great place for beginners with calm waters.
- Blue Holes: Perfect for a peaceful paddle boarding experience.
How to Get Started:
Many resorts and beaches rent out SUP boards. Beginners can take lessons to learn the basics of balance and paddling.
5. Jet Skiing
How to do it: Rent a jet ski for an exhilarating ride across Vanuatu's turquoise waters. Feel the rush as you zip past islands and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.
Where to Do It in Vanuatu:
- Port Vila harbour: A popular spot for thrilling jet ski rides.
How to Get Started:
Jet ski rentals are available in town through adventurequadtours.com at the moment. You’ll be offered with a range of options. Safety briefings and equipment are provided to ensure a fun and safe experience.
6. Surfing
How to do it: Vanuatu offers excellent surfing opportunities, especially during the winter months (April to October). Head to Pango Point near Port Vila or Erakor Island for consistent waves suitable for all skill levels. Rent a board or join a surf lesson with local instructors to make the most of the island's waves.
Where to Do It in Vanuatu:
- Pango Point: Known for its consistent breaks and suitable for all levels.
- Port Resolution: Close to the Mount Yasur volcano, there is hot water springs found around the bay. Explore around the point for a variety of waves.
- Mangea waves: The best time of year for surfing Mangea Reefs with consistent clean waves is during Summer and most often the month of January.
How to Get Started:
Surfboard rentals and lessons are available for rent in Efate. Beginners should consider taking lessons from experienced instructors - check out Vanuatu surfing association
7. Deep-Sea Fishing
How to do it: Charter a fishing boat and head into the deep waters surrounding Vanuatu. Catch prized game fish like marlin, sailfish, and tuna under the guidance of experienced local captains.
Where to Do It in Vanuatu:
- Port Vila: Known for deep-sea fishing charters targeting marlin, tuna, and mahi-mahi.
- Espiritu Santo: Offer excellent opportunities for both fly fishing and traditional fishing.
How to Get Started:
Book a fishing charter or guided fishing tour. Equipment and local expertise are usually provided, ensuring a successful fishing trip.
8. Island hopping
How to do it: island hopping involves travelling from one island to another to explore the unique landscapes, cultures, and activities each has to offer.
Where to Do It in Vanuatu:
- Efate Island: Start here and explore nearby smaller islands like Moso & Pele
- Espiritu Santo: Danny island & Ratua are some of the amazing options available
- Banks islands: It’s very easy to navigate between Vanua lava & Mota Lava in the Northern part of Vanuatu to discover completely different landscapes and cultural highlights
How to Get Started:
Island hopping tours can be arranged through local tour operators. These tours often include transportation, meals, and guided activities, making it easy to explore multiple islands in one trip.
9. Lagoon & river swimming
How to do it: Enjoy the calm and crystal-clear waters of Vanuatu’s lagoons, such as those found at Blue Lagoon on Efate Island, for a relaxing swim surrounded by lush tropical scenery. For a unique experience, head to one of Vanuatu’s pristine rivers, like the Riri River on Espiritu Santo, where you can swim in refreshing freshwater and enjoy the natural beauty of the island’s interior.
Where to Do It in Vanuatu:
- Santo blue Holes: Stunning freshwater springs surrounded by lush vegetation.
- Nazareth waterfall: An impressive waterfall and swimming area in Tanna
- Raru river: perfect for a refreshing swim. Its calm and clear waters provide an ideal environment for a relaxing dip.
How to Get Started:
Most swimming spots are easily accessible and do not require special equipment. Local guides can offer insights into the best places to swim. An entrance fee will be required at the entrance of each spot unless it is located on community land, then a day tour will need to be booked.
10. Sunset Cruises
How to do it: Wind down with a leisurely sunset cruise and enjoy spectacular views of the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean while sipping on cocktails and sampling local snacks.
Where to Do It in Vanuatu:
- Port Vila Harbour: Offers stunning views of the sunset over the harbor.
- Erakor lagoon: Provides a serene setting for a romantic or relaxing evening cruise.
How to Get Started:
Book a sunset cruise through local tour operators. Cruises typically include refreshments and sometimes dinner, making for a memorable experience.
Some resorts also sell their own sunset cruise like Erakor island resort, Warwick Le lagon & Iririki island resort & spa.