‘Vanuatu has something for everyone’
MCEWEN It’s the most beautiful place I’ve been, says the P&O Cruises Australia cruise director
Cruising lets you explore hidden beaches you’d be unable to visit
My favourite place in Vanuatu is the Blue Lagoon. It’s only about half an hour’s drive from Port Vila and there is this massive rope where you can swing off the side of a cliff and drop into the water. It’s crystal clear, really beautiful, and the best thing about it is that you see all the locals out there doing the exact same thing.
The best place to eat in Port Vila is Stonegrill
Stonegrill Restaurant is close to where you get off the ship. They give you the meat so you can cook it up yourself on a hot stone, which is fun. You can get steak or seafood and it’s delicious. Of course, you also have to try the tropical fruit while in Port Vila.
While you’re here, try a glassbottomed boat
I love the reef tours, which include snorkelling. I’ve seen turtles, clown fish, all sorts of things. We also offer cultural tours, where you get to go into local villages and see traditional dancing and have an authentic meal. That’s a special experience.
Enjoy a day at a resort
Another place I love is Iririki Island Resort, about 10 minutes away by speedboat. It’s a great one for couples because you can visit for the day and enjoy the pool and spa. A massage or a facial is a great way to relax, then enjoy dinner at the restaurant.
Peak cruising season is April to October
That’s brilliant for Australians, because you can escape winter and thaw out on an island. April and onwards is perfect, but any time of year is great, because it’s tropical.
When you’re choosing a cabin …
I always think a balcony is really romantic for couples, because you can watch the sunrises and sunsets together and enjoy the privacy. For families, I usually suggest ocean view, because you’ll mostly be out and about doing activities together.
Don’t forget a lightweight jacket and reef shoes
I always recommend lightweight clothing, because it’s really warm and humid, but I also tell people to bring a jacket because it can rain at the click of a finger. It changes quickly, but it’s always warm. Reef shoes are important because there is a lot of coral and rocks. They’re great for waterfalls, lagoons, and beaches. The other thing to bring is enough cash, especially for the markets, because Vanuatu isn’t as modernised as a lot of other places. Cash is much easier.
Markets are always a highlight
The markets are still as they would have been 50 years ago and it’s beautiful to see. Everything is handmade and the goods are the kinds of things you can only get somewhere like Vanuatu. You get to see some of the indigenous crafts that have been kept alive for years and years.
Avoid the taxi queues
When you arrive at Port Vila, there are a lot of people lined up offering taxi services right where you get off the ship, which can feel a bit hectic. My advice is to walk out 10 or 15 minutes past that, and you’ll find taxi drivers that won’t charge you double. It’s definitely a lot less manic.
Vanuatu is the most beautiful place I’ve been
It’s got 83 islands and we always visit at least a few of them. One of my favourite spots, other than Port Vila, is Champagne Bay. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and it’s the kind of place you would never visit any other way, you have to be on a ship. It’s a hidden gem. If you haven’t been, take the leap. Vanuatu is a paradise and has something for everyone.