Luxury cruising a hit in Vanuatu
By: Louise Goldsbury and Bruce Piper, Cruise Weekly

The latest boutique cruise line to visit Vanuatu, Island Escape, has had a successful inaugural season, fuelled by a swing in Aussie tourists.

Sailing from teh Island of Espiritu Santo, the six-day Secrets of Bali Hai voyage visits some of Vanuatu's most spectacular spots, including Plantation Island, Champagne Bay, Devil's Rock and Assam Bari.

Passengers discover the scenery and wildlife of the region in luxurious comfort while activities including trekking, kayaking and village tours activities are also available.

The 10-berth Island Passage was commissioned in Nelson, New Zealand in 2007 and has been operating in Kiwi waters until it launched cruises in Vanuatu this year, cruising between May to October.

Speaking with Cr Cruise uise W Weekl eekl eekly General Manager and Captain, Paul Macbee, said the ship will return in 2010 and beyond due to the support from niche Aussie and New Zealand markets.

When sailing in Vanuatu, the vessel carries the Vanuatu national flag with half of the staff being locals.

Island Passage has four cabin levels, all of which are at different price points (from NZD,690 ppts for the 5-night cruise) and feature either port-holes on the lowest deck or picture windows.

Cabins on the upper levels have both internal access and external - directly onto the teak deck.

Bedding is either twin or double but there's also a triple-share cabin, which Macbee said has been popular with families.

While onboard, a maximum of 22 guests can enjoy state of the art technology, with DVD, audio and TV feature in the spacious saloon and dining area.

Shore excursions are operated from one of three tenders located on Island Passage's Bridge deck, which also accommodates a helicopter.

Island Escape also offers a 3-night Espiritu Santo cruise and a 5-night Blue Waters Fishing Escape in the remote waters of Northern Vanuatu.

The company has also flagged its intention to operate sailings in New Zealand's Fiordland from October to December in 2010, with heli transfer operated from Te Anau.

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