Ferry services

 vanuatu ferry 2 

To travel from larger islands to the smaller islands, banana boats are a normal part of your journey. For example, if you're travelling to the islands of the Havannah and Taleva Coasts or any number of the Shepherd Islands from Port Vila, you'll find yourself on a smaller boat.

For longer journeys, if you have time on your side, a trip on one of the boats of cargo vessels allows you to see a range of different landscapes and appreciate a different side of Vanuatu culture. 

  • Vanuatu Ferry and Big Sista both operate the Port Vila - Malekula - Luganville route, with journeys taking around 24 hours end to end. Both companies may make numerous additional stops (on islands such as Emae, Epi, Paama and Maskelynes), depending on passenger and cargo demand.
  • Travelling south to Tanna is a rougher journey due to the ocean currents, with the MV Tanna Ferry & MV Tauraken operating Port Vila - Erromango - Tanna (and then sometimes to Aneityum).
  • Travelling from Santo to Malekula, there are a number of smaller ships. You're best to enquire at the wharf in Luganville
  • Travelling from Port Vila to Ambrym, the MV Brisk and MV Tina operate. You're best to enquire at their wharf in Port Vila near fisheries
  • Travelling to the Banks Islands or Penama Province, you're best to take a boat from Luganville and to enquire locally

Tickets can be purchased from the relevant company's office, and in Port Vila, will depart from Star Wharf. It is at the wharves on any island that you will be able to get the most reliable, up to date information on boat travel, as it changes regularly. There are also cargo ships servicing all inhabited islands in Vanuatu. Cargo boats are not as comfortable as the passenger ferries, however are the cheapest way to get around, and many ships will have food onboard. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Ferries and cargo boats suit travellers with time, a flexible date and interest in a slower crossing, such as Port Vila to Malekula and Santo. They are not a good substitute when you have a fixed international flight or only a few days. Banana boats cover short hops to nearby islands. Ask at the wharf for the current sailing, because timetables change.
Passenger ferries are more comfortable than cargo ships, but they are still working vessels, not cruise liners. Longer routes can take many hours or overnight, with basic facilities and a moving deck. The southern run toward Tanna can be rougher. Bring water, snacks, motion-sickness care and patience.
Weather influences ferry schedules a great deal. Sailings can be delayed or cancelled when seas are up, particularly in cyclone season, and cargo demand also changes stops and times. Confirm the day before, and have a backup plan if the boat is your only way back to Vila. Never count a ferry as a guaranteed last link to an international flight.