Fact Sheets & Video - Pacific

Vanuatu was formerly known as the New Hebrides before gaining independence from Anglo-French rule in 1980. Today Vanuatu is a self-governing Republic and a member of the Commonwealth.

An archipelago of 83 islands, Vanuatu has a unique blend of intact tribal communities, resorts, beaches and geography ranging from accessible volcanoes to pristine underwater environments. The population includes native ni-Vanuatu people of Melanesian origin plus a mix of French, British, Australian, New Zealand, Asian and people of Pacific origin.

Only a short 3 hour and 50 minute direct flight from Sydney to Port Vila or 3 hours from Brisbane with Air Vanuatu. Air Vanuatu fly directly to Port Villa 6 times a week from Sydney and 3 from Brisbane.

Efate is the main island of Vanuatu where the capital Port Vila is situated. Captain Cook was the first European to visit the island. Cook named it Sandwich Island after Lord Sandwich, the patron of his voyage. Fortunately the indigenous name prevailed. Port Vila is located around a natural harbour offering views of Iririki and Ifira Islands. The airport is only a short distance from town and all major resorts and hotels.

The best time of year to visit Vanuatu is April/May to October when the temperatures range comfortably from 18 to 28 degrees Celsius. Light weight casual clothing plus a jacket is usually all you will need to pack. November & December are warmer and January to March is usually hot with temperatures ranging from 26 to 34 degrees Celsius. During this time Vanuatu is often wet and prone to cyclones.

Tranquillity Dive Eco Tourism Resort

Moso Island is one of the smaller outposts north-west of the main island of Efate and Tranquillity Dive Eco Tourism Resort is one of Vanuatu's best kept secrets. It is a dive base with outdoor and Eco Tourism activities including scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, reef- walking, kayaking, hiking, cave exploring or just relaxing on the beaches. Full PADI Dive Courses are available from introductory dives to dive master.

Tranquillity is known as a dive base, outdoor and eco tourism activities. It is a simple budget lodge based on 380 hectares of tropical jungle. The travel time by boat from Havannah Harbour on Efate is a 25 minutes.

Guides can take visitors, hiking, caving, swimming, scuba diving and, of course, snorkelling. Snorkellers can even tag along aboard the resort's boat to a multitude of diving spots or simply wade in from the beach to spot smaller marine life. Dolphins and dugongs make regular appearances around the Island and there's a turtle rookery that nurtures baby Hawkesbill turtles for raising and release, rounding out the full eco-tourism experience.

The accommodation at Tranquillity is not the same as a normal Western Resort but is comfortable and perfect for someone looking for something different and of Island style. Some have even described it as very earthy and reminiscent of Robinson Crusoe.

Accommodation at Tranquillity Island Dive Eco Tourism Resort is around $110 a day, twin share including all meals. Snorkeling, kayaking, bushwalking and turtle rookery are complimentary and available on request.

Scuba diving at additional charge.

South Pacific Cruises - Coongoola Day Cruise

An ideal cruise for all ages. Coongoola is a 23 meter timber sailing ketch with twin diesel back up power able to carry 60 passengers.

The Day Cruise is an opportunity to visit secluded coves and beaches of fine white coral sands. Snorkel in crystal clear warm water, feed tame fish, maybe even see some wild Spinner Dolphins at play.

The cruise runs daily from Port Havannah Harbour on the North West side of Efate and includes hotel transfers, morning/afternoon tea, BBQ lunch and snorkeling gear.

The cruise begins with a leisurely sail on the tranquil waters of Havannah Harbour and onto Moso Island to visit a turtle rookery or one of several other beaches depending on weather conditions.

Then it's off to a secluded cove or beach to enjoy a dip in the crystal clear water, snorkel, laze on the beach or explore. This is the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds before returning to Efate.

Further information:

Tranquillity Dive Eco Tourism Resort & Coongoola Cruises

P.O. Box 991, Port Vila, Vanuatu.

For further information contact: + 67 825 020

or visit www.tranquillitydive.com

South Pacific Cruises - Coongoola Day Cruise

P.O. Box 991, Port Vila, Vanuatu.

For further information contact: T: +678 25020

or visit www.southpacdivecruise.com.vu

Air Vanuatu

Air Vanuatu fly from Sydney to Port Villa return 6 days a week.

And from Brisbane to Port Villa return 3 days a week.

For further information contact: T: 1300 780 737

or visit www.airvanuatu.com

For further information on Vanuatu visit www.vanuatutourism.com