For the early arrivals at Santo Airport, you’ll be met and transferred to the ferry that is waiting to take you to Aore Resort. Once there you are greeted with a welcome drink and given beach towels which you can use for the rest of the day. You have the day to relax and use the resort facilities before our crew meet and transfer you to the “Island Passage“. For later arrivals you will be taken straight to the ship. Soon after the 7pm departure, dinner is served as the ship heads around million-dollar point and the beautiful coast of Santo beckons. Welcome to our Paradise.

This morning there is the opportunity to snorkel over a fabulous coral reef only metres from the ship. It’s an unforgettable experience – we take you up current in the tenders so that you can drift over gardens of coral that are inhabited by a myriad of tropical fish.

On the same day, you’ll venture up the Riri River in a dugout canoe to discover the miraculous blue holes – deep, clear freshwater springs that bubble up into the river. You’ve never seen the colour blue quite like this. A refreshing swim is almost compulsory! The rest of your day can include as much activity as you wish: sightseeing from the tenders; exploring the shoreline; perhaps a trip with one of our fishing guides. Or simply relaxing in a steamer chair as you adjust to “island time” and get pampered Island Passage style. Tonight will be spent at anchor off the pristine beaches of Mavea Island.

After enjoying another one of chef’s indulgent breakfasts there’s still time for a swim or a walk before we up anchor and make our way north through even more beautiful islands, arriving in Hog Harbour in the late afternoon. For those onboard keen to experience the thrill of fishing “tropical style” this is a good opportunity. Our guides in the fishing tender will shadow the ship up the coast in search of the game fish that the area is known for. On the right day the results can be spectacular with tuna, wahoo, and mahi mahi often landed. The views as we cruise north are unforgettable. If conditions are right, some of our local friends will deliver a basket of local lobster. The evening sunset brings the day to a close with the Captains Dinner.

Today, your cruise adventure will see you landing on world famous Champagne Beach – said to be the most beautiful beach in the world – which promises the bluest water, whitest sand and greenest jungle – it’s just breathtaking. You can swim, sunbathe, snorkel, kayak and chat with the local pareu sellers. Later today we cross the straits to explore Maewo and Pentecost.

In Asanvari, we meet the charismatic leader, “Chief Nelson“. You’ll get a look at the ni-Vanuatu way of life. You’ll also get to know their sense of humour because smiling and laughing are major pastimes here. You can watch a custom dance, chat with the locals, and learn how to cook lap-lap, walk to the village gardens, and visit a beautiful waterfall or snorkel in the protected lagoon. And make sure you check out the Asanvari Yacht Club. When you arrive back on board, it’s time for the Captain’s Cocktail Party. Tonight we stay at anchor in this fabulous bay.

After breakfast, the ship gets underway to sail south to Wali Village. On June sailings we are greeted by the villagers in traditional wear and led to the edge of the forest where the 60-metre high land diving tower has been constructed from palm trees that are lashed together with flax. The local women wailing precede the ceremony and the dance is a semi-hypnotic trance. There are usually 8 jumpers and the ceremony last for about 90 minutes. You will leave in awe. We then move down the coast to Waterfall Village. Our local host will introduce you to this community. You are taken into the village as if you are part of it – and some dont want to leave… Fron the Chief’s heartfelt welcome to your traditional kava farewell, you will be enthralled. Dinner is served as we lay at anchor just off the village.

Today is a very special day, and as we anchor off Ranon on Ambrym Island you will immediately notice what makes this island so unique. It has two active volcanoes, Mt Marum and Mt Benbow and is sometimes called Black Island because of its black beach and its “black magic” history. Today the locals have extended us a special invitation to experience the secretive and mystical Rom dance, a performance rarely seen by outsiders. There will be ample time to spend with these wonderful and very friendly people before returning to the ship. This evening, at anchor, we witness the amazing glow of the nearby volcanoes.

After a relaxing start to the morning, perhaps taking a swim before breakfast, we then head south towards the small but beautiful Wala Island. This remote, densely vegetated island will excite anyone with an interest in anthropology. Cut off from their larger neighbor, Malakula, by a deep channel, Wala is remarkably untouched by modern culture – astounding considering its welcoming inhabitants, wondrous environs, world class snorkeling and fascinating ancient traditions. Visit the local market to pick up some handicrafts, then cool off with a swim or snorkel off one of the beautiful beaches.

Today, we are continuing north and with the trade winds behind us it makes for pleasant cruising through the outer islands off Santo. The fishing is good through the channels so we can expect to please chef by towing a lure behind the ship. There are many secluded anchorages in this area and we will look at the weather to find the perfect sheltered bay to spend the evening. Another swim or walk ashore before the farewell dinner with the crew. Make sure that you have exchanged addresses with fellow travellers before retiring for the night.

On the way to Santo, a continental breakfast will be served before you disembark at 9am. Depending on your flight arrangements we either transfer you to the airport or have arranged for you to use the facilities at a local resort.