Guided Village Walk

When ships arrive to Mystery Island, the locals from nearby Aneityum will bring their hand-crafts, local food, kava, and fresh coconuts as well as souvenirs so cruise guests can experience some of the local flavor.

However, discover the local culture and see where they live and make their homes and get a true taste of this part of the world. Travel to Aneityum, a small community that resides in the shadow of two volcanoes now dormant. First discovered in 1793 by French navigator D'Entrecastreaux, not until 1844 did James Paddon set up a trading station, selling Sandalwood and Kauri. Whalers would use Aneityum's sheltered harbor until the 1870s to melt whale blubber into oil.

In 1848 Presbyterian missionary John Geddie arrived and began to convert more than three quarters of the population to follow the Christian faith. He built a large stone church capable of seating his congregation that was then destroyed by a Tsunami in 1875, today the remains of the church can still be seen. There are an estimated 84 species of orchids, the largest collection in Vanuatu, that thrive here as the climate is better than its neighbor to the north, Tanna.

Meet the friendly, smiling people that call this home. They are less traditional than other islands but are just as easy to communicate with and are very welcoming. On this village walking tour you will view their traditional homes, local schools, medical dispensary and police station.

Vanuatu Adventure and the Blue Lagoon

This full-day tour will allow you to have a true experience of the South Pacific while in Vanuatu. James A. Michener, the American author, was one of thousands of soldiers stationed in Vanuatu during WWII and it was while here that he wrote "Tales of the South Pacific" on which the musical "South Pacific" is based.

Be amazed by the warm clear waters and fascinating nature of the untouched island paradise of Vanuatu, there are world-famous shipwrecks, beautiful coral reefs, crystal clear and mysterious blue holes, white sand beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes and mountains just to name a few attractions.

Your first stop will be the Balihai Custom Village where you will see firsthand how the native people of this island live their daily lives. You will learn the ways of village life and of the customs and culture that make this a beautiful and mysterious place.

Next, you will make a stop at Turtle Bay Resort to see their conservation project efforts to raise turtles from hatchling for release back to the sea. You will also see the giant coconut crab and other local wildlife under the protection of the resort. At high tide, if you are game, you can swim with the sharks and the giant turtles in a natural rock aquarium (at an additional cost). Otherwise, you can swim, snorkel or just relax and sunbathe on their white sandy beach.

Continuing your day your next stop will be at the Blue Lagoon for a dip in one of Port Vila's best natural swimming pools. You will find golden sands and crystal clear waters here where these blue holes have been created over time by fresh and salt waters layering over limestone.

Before returning to the port you will have the chance for duty-free shopping for souvenirs.

Once back at the wharf you will also have the optional drop-off at the wharf market for any additional shopping.