Embark on a 12-night sailing expedition through the breathtaking islands of Vanuatu, the “Land Eternal.” Spanning 83 islands and 450 nautical miles of the Pacific Ocean, Vanuatu offers an extraordinary blend of lush landscapes, vibrant marine life, and rich cultural heritage.
Sail through clear, warm waters teeming with life, from colourful corals and sponges to a variety of tropical fish. Explore the dramatic underwater terrain of cliffs, caves, and tunnels, and discover fascinating shipwrecks that create a snorkeler's paradise. Onshore, encounter pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and towering volcanoes that define this unique archipelago.
Your adventure begins and concludes in Port Vila, Vanuatu’s capital, where you’ll experience a warm welcome from the friendly Ni-Vanuatu people. Their traditional culture, rooted in vibrant oral traditions, offers a glimpse into the region’s connection to the sea, the islands, and their origins. As you visit remote villages and anchor in secluded bays, immerse yourself in the captivating customs, rituals, and hospitality of this island nation.
Explore the reefs and WWII relics of Espiritu Santo
Snorkel or dive the iconic SS President Coolidge wreck, swim in freshwater Blue Holes, and relax on Champagne Beach’s white sands—one of the South Pacific’s most beautiful stretches of coastline.
Immerse yourself in kastom culture in Malekula
Visit traditional villages where ancient customs, sand drawings, and Rom dance ceremonies still thrive. Learn about the island’s rich tribal diversity and local ways of life.
Sail through the untouched Maskelyne Islands
Anchor in calm lagoons fringed by mangroves, where dugongs feed and dolphins play. These off-grid islets in Malampa Province offer pristine snorkelling, paddleboarding, and authentic village encounters.
Trek volcanoes and rainforest in Penama Province
In the shadow of Mount Garet and other volcanic peaks, explore rainforest trails, crater lakes, and steaming vents. This region combines dramatic landscapes with deep spiritual significance.
Connect with local communities in Shefa and Sanma Provinces
From vibrant Port Vila markets to quiet outer islands, you’ll experience the warmth and hospitality of the Ni-Vanuatu people—welcoming you with smiles, dances, and the traditional sevusevu ceremony.
Discover natural wonders across Malampa Province
Swim in underwater caves, bathe in geothermal springs, and kayak past jungle-clad cliffs. Malampa is a haven for eco-adventurers, with its mix of marine reserves, rivers, and coastal forests.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Sanma Province
Dive the SS President Coolidge and Million Dollar Point near Luganville—iconic WWII wreck sites rich in history and marine life.
Explore Espiritu Santo’s Blue Holes, Champagne Beach, and lush rainforest trails for unforgettable island adventures.
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 Bauerfield International Airport, Vanuatu. The goal is to explore the northern island group over the following 11 days, stopping daily at selected bays, attractions and islands en-route.
21 Sep 2027
Arrive at the vessel in Port Vila by 10am
Crew training and safety familiarisation
Depart Port Vila around 12pm
21 - 1 Oct 2027
Explore a select number of Vanuatu Islands
2 Oct 2027
Return to Port Vila by 3pm
Crew farewell dinner and stay onboard overnight
3 Oct 2027
Depart Port Vila out of Bauerfield International Airport
Inclusions
Your crew package includes; all meals onboard, crew meals 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.