Cruising to Vanuatu vs staying longer: which is best?

So, you’ve been on a Pacific Islands cruise and stopped in at Vanuatu – swum in the turquoise water, relaxed on the powder white sand, sampled traditional Vanuatuan food and bought a trinket or two from the local market.

Now you can tick Vanuatu off your list of must-visit destinations. Or can you?

Truth is that a one-day cruise stopover doesn’t even scratch the surface of what this Pacific Island wonder has to offer.

There is more to Vanuatu than stunning beaches – it’s where traditional culture continues to thrive, providing visitors with an immersive experience unlike any other. And with 83 islands in the Melanesian archipelago, each with its own unique traditions, visiting just one doesn’t tell the full Vanuatu story.

Happy happy people

The people of Vanuatu are considered some of the happiest in the world and it’s easy to see why. Traditional tribal cultures and modern influences are perfectly balanced to create to Vanuatu’s indigenous population – Ni-Vanuatu – a rich combination of cultures that put family and community above all else.

Experience traditional Vanuatu life by visiting cultural villages, where locals proudly share their heritage through art, dance, song and rituals passed down through generations.

Ekasup Villa near Port Vila offers a complete immersion into Melanesian culture – you can learn traditional cooking methods, discover local crafts and understand the beliefs and customs that shape the daily lives of the Ni-Vanuatu.

Over on Tanna Island, you can visit Emaio Village and join in traditional dances and songs and enjoy a traditional Vanuatu meal – and gain a valuable understanding of the harmony between the people and natural environment.

Leweton Cultural Village on Santo Island offers a unique opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the ancient customs of the islands of Gaua and Mere Lava and experience the Magical Water Music, traditional dances, wood carvings and the famous sand drawing which is unique to Vanuatu.

Every day can be different

With its stunning beaches and resorts, the option to relax with a cocktail in hand is always there. However, for those wanting the full Vanuatu experience, there is plenty to see and do.

Snorkelling, diving, fishing, golf, kayaking, horse riding, ziplining – the choice is yours. Vanuatu is perfect for keen hikers, with trails traversing mountain peaks, volcanic craters, beaches and rivers. There are a great range of walks taking half a day close to Port Vila to multi-day hikes led by local guides.

Then there are the blue holes, unique to Vanuatu and each offering a special experience all its own. The Blue Lagoon on Efate, a 45-minute drive from Port Vila, is where you can easily spend a day swimming in the pristine water and watching local acrobats show their skills on the rope swings.

The blue hole experience on Espirito Santo is incredible – paddling up the river to Matevulu Blue Hole takes about 30 minutes but once there, you’re rewarded with a beautiful swimming area and giant rope swing. You can paddle further south to Ri Ri, said to be the prettiest of all the Santo blue holes (there are several you can visit).

Vanuatu’s a snorkeller’s dream, with a range of snorkelling spots throughout the islands catering to all levels of experience. Then there’s the famous black sand beaches of Tanna, created by towering Mount Yasur – one of the most accessible volcanoes in the world.

Heaven for foodies

Vanuatu takes you on a culinary adventure unlike any other with its unique combination of traditional Melanesian flavours and French influences. Whether you're eating at a local market, enjoying street food or indulging in gourmet cuisine, every meal offers a taste of the islands’ vibrant culture.

From the ocean’s freshest seafood and tropical fruits to the famously tender local beef, dining in Vanuatu is a true delight. French favourites like escargot, foie gras and decadent desserts feature alongside traditional dishes like laplap – a pudding-like mix of root vegetables and coconut milk paired with seafood or meat, wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in an earth oven.

For a taste of true Vanuatu flavour, head to the Port Vila markets, where local cooks serve up sizzling plates of island-style fare. And no visit is complete without sampling the country’s culinary stars – freshly caught lobster and Vanuatu’s world-renowned beef.

Retail therapy, island style

No matter your shopping style – duty free, boutique, or artisan market – Vanuatu offers a unique mix of them all. Explore the lively markets of Port Vila, Luganville and Lenakel, where local artisans showcase their craft. From intricately woven baskets and mats to beautifully carved wooden sculptures, each piece reflects the islands’ rich cultural heritage.

Be sure to sample or take home locally made treats like Gaston Chocolat and Tanna Coffee, perfect for sharing the taste of Vanuatu with friends and family.

Duty-free shopping is a highlight of the islands, with most stores located in Port Vila and a few options in Luganville and around Espiritu Santo.

While Vanuatu doesn’t have large international-style malls, smaller shopping centres and complexes in the main towns – especially Port Vila – provide a convenient and charming retail experience.

From romantic island getaways to fun-filled family adventures, Vanuatu offers something for everyone. The Spacifica Travel team draws on their extensive local knowledge to craft unforgettable holiday packages that capture the very best of the islands. Speak with the experts today on 1800 800 722 and start planning your dream Vanuatu escape.