Set sail on a 14-night tropical sailing expedition through the heart of Vanuatu, from Luganville in Espiritu Santo to the capital, Port Vila on Efate. Spanning 400 nautical miles, this voyage offers an unforgettable journey through volcanic islands, remote anchorages, and vibrant cultural traditions in one of the South Pacific’s most captivating archipelagos.
Departing Luganville, you’ll head south through Vanuatu’s island chain, discovering secluded bays, traditional villages, and reefs alive with marine life. Expect warm trade winds, palm-fringed shores, and golden sunsets from tranquil anchorages. Swim and snorkel pristine coral reefs, hike rainforest trails, and experience local Kastom ceremonies that bring the region’s cultural richness to life.
With a flexible itinerary shaped by weather and opportunity, the voyage blends hands-on sailing with island exploration. Aboard a well-equipped expedition yacht, take part in navigation, night watches, and seamanship while enjoying the peaceful rhythm of life at sea.
Whether you’re after authentic cultural immersion, off-the-beaten-track adventure, or simply time to unplug in paradise, this Vanuatu sailing journey offers a rare and enriching way to experience the South Pacific—by sea.
Visit traditional villages and experience Kastom culture
Go ashore to meet local communities, witness ceremonial dances, and learn about age-old customs passed down through generations.
Snorkel pristine coral reefs and explore vibrant marine life
Dive into turquoise waters alive with colourful fish, coral gardens, and possibly turtles or reef sharks in one of the world’s most biodiverse marine regions.
Hike rainforest trails to waterfalls and volcanic lookouts
Trek through lush island interiors, discovering hidden swimming holes, panoramic views, and the wild beauty of Vanuatu’s volcanic terrain.
Anchor in secluded bays beneath star-filled skies
Unwind each night in quiet, protected anchorages surrounded by nature. Ideal for swimming, paddle-boarding, and sunset dining.
Gain hands-on sailing experience aboard an expedition yacht
Join the crew to hoist sails, helm the vessel, and participate in night watches, deepening your seamanship skills along the way.
Discover Vanuatu’s diverse island character
Explore the contrast between untouched islands and vibrant local towns—from the laid-back charm of remote anchorages to the lively markets of Port Vila.
Luganville
Dive the famous SS President Coolidge wreck—one of the world’s largest and most accessible WWII wreck dives.
Stroll the town’s markets and waterfront, or explore nearby WWII relics and local kastom (custom) villages.
Espiritu Santo
Swim in the stunning Blue Holes—natural freshwater springs set in lush rainforest and perfect for a cool dip.
Relax on Champagne Beach, known for its soft white sand and turquoise water—one of Vanuatu’s most iconic shores.
Penama Province
Trek up Mount Yasur, Tanna Island’s active volcano, for an unforgettable view into a bubbling crater.
Visit traditional villages to experience Vanuatu’s vibrant kastom culture and witness local dances and ceremonies.
Malekula
Discover kastom traditions of the Small and Big Nambas tribes, each with distinct cultural practices and dress.
Hike through dense jungle and along rugged coastlines, with chances to visit remote villages and waterfalls.
Maskelyne Islands
Snorkel or dive in coral-rich waters teeming with marine life—often completely untouched and uncrowded.
Visit friendly island communities known for their dugout canoes, traditional navigation, and hospitality.
Malampa Province
Anchor near volcanic Ambrym Island, known for black sand beaches and dramatic ash plains.
Watch or join Rom dances—striking traditional ceremonies involving masks, chanting, and ancient stories.
Shefa Province
Explore outer islands like Epi and Nguna for snorkelling with dugongs and peaceful off-the-beaten-path beaches.
Dive into rich cultural history with visits to traditional villages and archaeological sites near the coast.
Port Vila
Wander the colourful markets and waterfront cafés of Vanuatu’s capital, or visit the National Museum to learn about local culture.
Take a day trip to Mele Cascades, a stunning multi-tiered waterfall just outside the city, ideal for hiking and swimming.
Acting as watch captain (day and night), helming, navigating, checking weather and monitoring AIS and radar and for both traffic and rain squalls. View gallery
Downloading and analysing the latest weather forecasts and calculating best route to destination. View gallery
Navigating, hazard identification, entering waypoints and calculating updated ETA’s. View gallery
Watch roster planning, matching responsibility to experience, crew management and communication. View gallery
Familiarisation of all safety procedures, sail planning, storm preparation planning and abandon ship procedures. View gallery
Advice on how to take responsibility for managing clothing, hydration, sleep and nutrition to maintain your health and well being aboard. View gallery
Planning our arrival and route to safe harbour including timing with daylight (if required), weather factors, navigational hazards, communications / customs and sail/motor arrival plan. View gallery
Hoisting, trimming and reefing both upwind (main, genoas, and jibs) and downwind sails (poled out headsails, spinnakers, gennakers and code 0’s (subject to weather). View gallery
Use of PDF’s (Personal Flotation Devices), PLB’s (Personal Locator Beacons), safety tethers, dan buoy’s, storm drogue, liferaft and any other equipment required to ensure you remain safe in all conditions. View gallery
Onshore activities include hiking and bushwalking to scenic lookouts, exploring local towns, and discovering the unique charm of each destination. Enjoy cultural immersion through local traditions, relax with games, or uncover hidden gems as you explore islands. View gallery
Coastal exploring offers the thrill of venturing to remote places using a RIB, uncovering hidden gems like pristine reefs, secluded beaches, and winding rivers. Discover shipwrecks teeming with history, indulge in beach combing for unique treasures, and experience the untouched beauty of coastal landscapes. View gallery
Dining out offers the chance to enjoy local flavours, explore regional specialties, and experience unique culinary traditions. From seaside cafes to hidden gems, each meal is an opportunity to savour the culture and cuisine of the destination. View gallery
Fishing provides an opportunity to connect with nature, whether casting a line from the shore or exploring deeper waters. Enjoy the thrill of the catch, the serenity of the surroundings, and the chance to bring home a fresh, rewarding meal. View gallery
Exploring historic places offers a glimpse into the past through ancient sites, architectural landmarks, and local stories. These visits bring history to life, connecting you with the culture, traditions, and events that shaped each destination. View gallery
Kayaking allows you to glide through serene waterways, explore hidden coves, and get up close to nature. It’s a peaceful yet adventurous way to discover rivers, coastlines, and marine life from a unique perspective. View gallery
Snorkelling offers an up-close view of vibrant underwater ecosystems, from colourful coral reefs to fascinating marine life. It's a relaxing and immersive way to explore the wonders beneath the surface of the water. View gallery
Swimming offers refreshing escapes in stunning settings, from crystal-clear bays and tranquil rivers to diving off the back of the boat into azure waters. It's a perfect way to relax and be rejuvenated by nature. View gallery
Wildlife watching offers unforgettable encounters with nature, from observing birds and dolphins to spotting whales, turtles, and sharks. Discover diverse marine life, from playful fish to delicate starfish, in their natural habitats. View gallery
Step aboard Te Kaihopara, a purpose-built South Pacific cruising ketch designed for modern explorers seeking connection, challenge, and discovery at sea. From remote coastlines to open ocean passages, Te Kaihopara delivers comfort, capability, and adventure in equal measure. With a strong, ocean-tested build, hands-on sailing opportunities, and space to relax and reflect, every voyage is a chance to immerse yourself in the rhythm of the ocean and the raw beauty of the natural world.
With $1m spent on a refit, new electronics, a full rewire and the latest safety equipment in 2023, the yacht meets the highest safety standards.
With a generous galley, 4 fridges and a freezer, the yacht is able to be well provisioned for long distance cruising.
With a saloon and wheelhouse that seat up to 16 people, there are ample indoor and outdoor seating choices.
Berth and Cabin and options
Moana Stateroom: Booking option for couple or up to 3 singles. Private ensuite. 240v and 12v power outlets. 4 large and 2 small port hole windows. Private ensuite.
Tiritiri Suite: Booking option for couple or up to 3 singles. Private ensuite. 240v and 12v power outlets. 1 small port hole window. Private ensuite.
Mokohinau Cabin: Booking option for up to 4 occupants with private ensuite. 240v and 12v power outlets. 2 small port hole windows. Private ensuite.
You can fly directly into Luganville.
1 Sep 2027
Arrive at the yacht in Luganville by 10:00am
Welcome aboard and meet your crew
Safety briefing, yacht systems orientation, and depart by 12pm
2 - 14 Sep 2027
Begin coastal and island-hopping journey south from Luganville to Port Vila
Explore multiple islands and anchorages along the way
14 Sep 2027
Final leg to Port Vila
Arrive by mid-afternoon
Dock at marina, enjoy a celebratory farewell dinner and stay onboard overnight
15 Sep 2027
Breakfast aboard
Depart via Port Vila Airport or continue your Vanuatu travels
Inclusions
Your crew package includes; all meals onboard, crew meals in Auckland and at various stopover islands and ports, accommodation onboard, your Ocean Sailing Expeditions crew shirt, marina fees, the use of a PFD (personal floatation device), PLB (personal locator beacon), and a safety tether. Your bedding, a pillow and towel are also included along with suncream.
Exclusions
Your crew package excludes; accommodation ashore, flights and transport to and from departure and arrival ports, alcohol, toiletries, clothing and wet weather gear. Its always recommended that you book flights with date flexibility incase of unforeseen changes due to weather or schedules. Accommodation options if you want to stay ashore either side of trip: AirBNB, Booking.com, Wotif & HomeAway.
Book and pay
Click Book Now button above to secure your place. Choose from Pay in Full or deposit options. Direct debit from bank account, debit card or credit card options available. Pay in the currency of your choice.
Personalise your payment plan
If you want to set up a payment plan, contact us here and let us know your desired deposit (minimum 10% required) and your preferred payment. You can make up to 18 payments, for the balance. You can choose the frequency and customise each payment amount.
Not ready to pay, but want to secure your place?
Reserve your place onboard today, with no obligation. We’ll send the confirmation details, itinerary, deposit invoice and be sure to answer all your questions, while you finalise your plans before confirming. Reserve here.
100% cancellation guarantee
If you book and then cancel prior to an event, for any reason, 100% of your payment will be issued as a credit, that you can apply to any future event/s. For a full refund of sailing trip, flights and hotel costs, we recommend travel insurance. View Terms & Conditions.