3. 5 Reasons To Book
QUALITY
VARIETY
SAFETY
SERVICE
VALUE
•All tours fit in with the time the
ship‟s in port, so don‟t worry
about being left ashore!
4. How To Book
Already have a
tour confirmation?
The ticket will be
delivered to
your cabinDrop by the Shore Tours office - Hours advertised
in your Pacific Daily.
Book via Kiosks located by Shore Tours Office
Book early to avoid disappointment! Tours book out quickly!!
ConsultTour Information forms for full tour descriptions.
5. How To Book
Already have a
tour confirmation?
The ticket will be
delivered to
your cabin
Guide to Symbols
Detailed Tour
Description
Important T’s & C’s
6. Tour Tickets
PLEASE CHECK YOUR TICKETS IMMEDIATELYFORACCURACY
Pre-reserved tours – Tickets have already been
delivered to cabins - Please check now.
1 ticket per person per tour
Child 2-12Adult 13+ -Allow 30 mins between tours
Alot of important information on your tickets so please read them.
Always check the MEET time
8. Deadlines &
Cancellations
Refunds or exchanges will not be granted unless notice
of cancellation is given prior to the cancellation deadline
as noted on the onboard information forms.
9. Currency
Central Pacific Francs (XPF) Noumea & Lifou
Can be exchanged at the reception desk
For Francs please note when returning this currency we will only
accept Notes, not coins.
Australian Dollars for Vanuatu Ports – small denominations
recommended
10. Snorkelling & More
Equipment can be hired/Purchased at
theAqua Hut on board including reef shoes
(Aqua Hut, Deck 12 Mid, near the pool)
Some tours include snorkelling equipment
(Check the booking form)
Underwater cameras & accessories available
from the Photo Gallery Deck 7
12. Respecting
Local Culture
Please ask permission before taking
pictures of indigenous people
Respect “tabu” (forbidden) signs - some areas are sacred or private –
please do not enter
Local guides are happy to explain local customs
Women may be advised to dress more conservatively
Remember : Coral is precious, please avoid touching coral
13. Quarantine
No food & drink off the ship (except bottled water) – On the spot fines
could be imposed.
Please ensure any items bought ashore comply with strictAustralian
laws – if you are unsure always declare it to the local authorities.
Don‟t buy anything made from turtle shell, feathers or seeds.
Don‟t buy cigarettes for Port Vila Taxi Drivers
15. Noumea
What To Do
Baie de la Moselle, shopping near ship's berth
Baie des Citrons – Lemon Bay Beach, with cafes & restaurants
Anse Vata – main resort area, windsurfing beach
Aquarium , catamaran sailing cruise, Thcou Tchou
Train, mangroves, see the French colonial history
17. Noumea
GettingAround
Ship docks at Gare Maritime terminal
Find taxis on Coconut Square (5 mins walk)
Public buses available outside terminal
“Yellow TchouTchou Trains” – see city‟s major attractions
19. Noumea in a Nutshell
NOU–000
3 hrsGuided Overview of Noumea City
Enjoy panoramic view of bays &islands
Visit OuenToro Lookout and FOLViewpoint.
20. The Yellow
Tchou Tchou Train
Guided train tour of Noumea
See old buildings & colonial architecture
VisitAnse Vata & Lemon Bay beaches.
Bein Quick , books out fast
NOU–005/006/007
2 hrs
21. Noumea Segway Gourmet Adventure
Anse Vata and Lemon Bay Beaches by Segway
Visit alocal Chocolate Shop
Taste French delicacies like “Foie Gras” and “Rillettes”
NOU–040
2 hrs
22. Legends of Melanesia
Discover the region‟s rich indigenous culture
See unique exhibits of Kanak & Pacific cultures
Hear tales of local myths &folklore.
NOU–100
2.5 hrs
23. Wine, Cheese & Noumea City
Highlights
Guided city coach tour
Drive through the hills, enjoying great views
TryFrench wine & cheese at one of Noumea‟s top
restaurants.
NOU–105
2.5 hrs
24. Noumea City Sights andAquarium
NOU–125
2 hrs
Guided city coach tour
See historical &colonial buildings
Enjoy fantastic views.
SuperbAquarium –great for the whole family!
25. Night
Train
Visit one of the city‟s most popular venues
Relax &enjoy acomplimentary pitcher of beer.
NOU–130
2.5 hrs
26. Noumea
Mangrove Discovery
Guided coach tour through bays &beaches
See amazing mangrove in Ouémo‟s Peninsula
Soak in great views &return via colonial area.
NOU–145
2 hrs
27. Sail the Bays of Noumea
Sail the Crystal Clear Waters
Great views of Noumea‟s coastline
TOPRECOMMENDATION
NOU-170
3 hrs
28. ATaste of 1881
Visit 1881 one of New Caledonia‟s best
restaurant locations by the bay
TryFrench Crepes toyour hearts content
Enjoy theTchouTchouTrain By night en route to
Noumea‟s best keep secret
NOU-175
2.5 hrs
34. Lifou
GettingAround
Ship anchors off Lifou, at small village called Easo
Tender boat transfer to shore
No taxis on the island
No public telephones
35. Melanesian
Encounter
Insight into Melanesian life in Hnatalo village
Visit the Chief‟s Hut
Stroll around the village &watch local residents
cook the traditional “bougna”.
LIF–005
2 hrs
36. Cliffs
Of Jokin
Scenic drive across Lifou to rugged north coast
See the village of Jokin & stunning cliff views
Enjoy a vanilla plantation tour.
LIF–010
2 hrs
37. Luecila Beach &
Scenic Drive
East coast drive past varying landscapes &
town of We
Enjoy the untouched Luecila Beach
Swim in the beautiful & calm lagoon.
LIF–015
2.5 hrs
38. Forest &
Secret Grotto
Aguided walk through native flora
See stalagmites & stalactites by torchlight inside
grottos
End with a demonstration of traditional hunting
techniques.
LIF–020
2 hrs
39. Lifou‟s Vanilla House
Visit the Maison de la vanille orThe Vanilla
house
learn about the Cultivation, Preparation and
History of Vanilla in Lifou
visit the Oni Wael wildlife
LIF–025
2 hrs
41. Port Vila
What To Do
Excellent & varied shopping
Cascade Waterfalls – rainforest
& swimming ponds (available on ship‟s tour)
Ekasup Cultural Village – award winning tourist attraction
Adventure Experiences – Off-road buggy, kayak, parasail, horse-
riding, snorkelling, abseil down the waterfall, Zorbing
42. Port Vila
Eat. Drink. Enjoy.
Cosmopolitan eating experience
From snack to gourmet
Try “laplap” - Vanuatu‟s national dish
Tipping – not customary
43. Port Vila
GettingAround
Ship docks at Vila‟s pier, 3km from town – Not advisable to walk, no
footpaths, muggy, dusty and uneven road surfaces.
Wear sensible footwear e.g. Reef Shoes
Loads of Taxis & Busses outside port gates
Public telephones in downtown Vila
46. Waterfall Eco-Tour
Visit “Eden on the River” and its untouched rain
forest and stunning natural beauty.
Enjoy a quiet walk to the river and a relaxing
swim.
VLI–040
3.5 hrs
47. The Secret Garden Outdoor Cultural
Centre
Highlights of this tropical treasure trove
View lush &colourful variety of plants
See how kava is prepared
VLI–015
2.5 hrs
48. Ekasup
Cultural Village
Awarded Vanuatu„s best tourist attraction
Insight into mysterious world of ancient Melanesia
Experience rich culture &customs.
VLI–010
2.5 hrs
49. Rainforest & Plantation
Horse Riding
Experience Vanuatu by horseback
Explore a beef cattle ranch & copra plantation
Take a refreshing lagoon swim.
VLI–045
3 hrs
50. AToast to Vila
Experience four of Vila's favourite Bars
Sampling a range of Food and Wine including the
award winning local brew (Tusker).
Relax and Unwind
VLI–050
3 hrs
52. Vila
By Helicopter
Discover beautiful Vanuatu by air
Fly over lush rainforest &beaches
See the resort area, a local shanty town &a
kava house.
VLI–070
45 min(7 min flying)
53. Glass–Bottom Boat &
Snorkel Safari
Glide over coral reef & watch fish-feeding
Enjoy snorkelling at a sheltered reef
Relax on the sundeck &soak in the view.
VLI–080
1.5 hrs
54. Tranquillity Island and Turtle Sanctuary
Snorkel the untouched coral reef
TranquilityTurtle conservatory
Scenic Bush walk
Beach visit
VLI-205
6.5 hrs
55. Round
Island Safari
Discover the island of Efate & Banana Bay
Meet a traditional Melanesian warrior
Catch glimpses of modern village life.
VLI–020
8 hrs
56. Dream Cove Sail & SnorkelAdventure
Relax on deck or take ashort rainforest walk
Enjoy a swim from the beach
Experience fish-feeding.
VLI–105
4 hrs
57. Introductory & Certified
Scuba Dive –
Twin Bommies and Konanda Reef
Introductory PADI dive in one of Vila„s
famous sites
Dive along asheer wall, grottos & tropical fish
Depth ranges from 10 -18 metres.
VLI–125
2.45 hrs(20–30 min dive)
58. Pele IslandAdventure
Fine white sandy beaches
Superb snorkelling, Swim, or just Relax
Food and Entertainment
TOPRECOMMENDATION
VLI-200
6.5 hrs
59. Pango Cove
SnorkelAdventure
See one of Vanuatu‟s best snorkelling spots
Float above colourful fish &coral
Look out for dolphins &manta rays.
VLI–160
1.5 hrs
60. Jet Boat
Adventure
Exhilarating tour around beautiful Port Vila
harbour
30 min of adrenalin-pumping adventure
Enjoy views of the ship at dock
VLI–110
30 min
61. Wanttocruise againbut
notsure whereor
when?
Letusspoilyou!
• Simply reserve your
next holiday with a
$100 per person
deposit
• We will give you
up to $150 per
cabin onboard
Credit to spend!
• Valid for 4 years
Enticingoffer
towelcome
youback
onboard
Onboard
Credit
61
Up to
$150Per cabin
62.
63. This is how to holiday
On behalf of the Shore Tours Team – We hope you have a wonderful time ashore!!
Editor's Notes
Welcome Aboard Slide – PACIFIC DAWN!!!Myself and Pana,Desk located on deck 5 beside receptionOpening hours in Pac Daily.Noumea, Lifou (New Caledonia) Port Vila (Vanuatu).
Why take a ship’s organised tour? Take the hassle out of trying to find your way around these placesVarietySafety.
Reasons to book, quality.. Safety… variety… promise not to leave you behind.HOW TO BOOKTOUR INFORMATION FORMS in cabin & at Shore Tours desk (deck 5 mid-ship near Reception)Come see us at the desk during desk hours – Advised in Pacific DailyTOUR TICKETS Pre-reserved already delivered – please check these TODAYBook Via the convenient Kiosks Located by the Shore Tours Desk
An example of your tour order forms, please take the time to read these as they have the most detailed description of the tours including important information like what to wear, if snorkel equip is included, price, duration, level of fitness required and if food is involved in the tour.The front page has some very important terms and conditions of tour participation and a guide to symbols to help you pick which tour would suit you based on your level of fitness, and the meal symbols. Please come and see us if you have any special dietry requirements and you are on tour with a meal included.
Tour Ticket slide Pre Reserved tickets have been sent to cabins, please read them – Full of very important information, like clothing required and the meeting location. It is very important you meet at the MEET TIME SPECIFIED!!1 ticket per person per tourChild 2-11 Adult 12+Allow 30 mins between toursAlways check the MEET time (Very Important – We dont want you to be late and miss your tour!!)For Mare bus transfer - it is one ticket one way so you will need 2 tickets for the return trip.
Meeting your Shore Excursions All tour tickets have the meet location printed on them. Some tours meet in the Showlounge so please check your tickets prior to arrival in port.We also advertise meet location in the pacific daily.Bring ticket and cruise card
Cancellations and DeadlinesImportant part of our terms and conditions - We need to notify our local operator in advance of our tour numbers so we can not cancel outside of this deadline. Written on you tour information forms and posted on the tour boards by the tour desk.
CurrencyThe currency used in Noumea Mare and Lifou is Central Pacific Francs. You can purchase these from the reception desk. Whatever you have left over after that can be exchanged back at the reception desk. Please note they can only exchange notes, not coins. In Vila & Wala, you can use Aussie dollars and we recommend you change about $50 into smaller denominations for taxi’s etc. The local currency in Vila is Vatu however we do not buy or sell this onboard.
SnorkellingGet your gear from the Aqua Hut, hours displayed in the Pacific Daily. Can also purchase underwater cameras at the Photo Gallery located on deck 7.Coral is an extremely precious marine organism. In an effort to preserve its natural beauty and habitat please avoid touching it in all circumstances.
Remember : Please avoid touching coralMay of the places we visit have a very unique maritime environment – which is very easy to destroy.So please be vigilante when wading around in the water.Years to grow and only moments to vanish.......
Respect Local CulturePlease ask permission before taking pictures of indigenous peopleRespect “tabu” (forbidden) signs - some areas are sacred or private – please do not enter, especially places like WalaLocal guides are happy to explain local customsWomen may be advised to dress more conservatively During your time ashore we also ask that you dispose of your rubbish thoughtfully.
QuarantineLike Australia, Quarantine laws are very strict at these islands. Please don’t carry any food ashore because if you are caught then on the spot fines could be imposed. When you get back to Brisbane you will have to declare any souvenirs made out of wood, shells or any plant, material. If you are in doubt please declare it as Australian quarantine are, as you know, very strict. $100 Luck Draw!! slide At the end of this presentation, I will draw 1 lucky winner who will get $100 off Shore Tours. You do have to be in the lounge to win the prizes!!
Noumea, New CaledoniaNOU MEA combines all the flavour and ambience of a bustling, sophisticatedprovincial French town with the friendly charms, adventure and heavenly climate of the Pacific Islands.
What to doshopping near ship's berth and markets in the terminalBaie des Citrons – Lemon Bay Beach, with cafes & restaurantsCatch a cab or a bus to AnseVata – main resort area, windsurfing beachOfcourse we recommend some of our great tours eg Aquarium &ChooChoo Train etc. Come and see us to find out more.
Coconut SquareIn the heart of the city and only 5 minutes walk where the ship docks. It slopes gently from east to west and at the top is the famous band rotunda dating back to the late 1800’s. Regular concerts and street markets are held here and this time of year their christams and New Year celebrations are held here.
Getting AroundLimited taxis are available from Coconut Square, and there is a local public bus system in place. Be mindful of all aboard times for the ship and aware that most people only speak french so may not be overly helpful. You might also like to join one of the “Yellow Tchou Tchou Train” tours for an excellent overview of Noumea’s most interesting attractions.
Noumea Meeting PointAll tours depart from ashore in NoumeaMEETING POINT is directly ashore, 10 minutes before your tour is due to deaprt- this information is printed on your tour tickets. Please make sure you are on time as we may not be able to wait for you and there will be no refunds for people showing up to their tour late.Head off the gangway, turn left in the terminal and meet on the wooden platform.
Noumea in A NutshellComprehensive 3 hour tour which gives an easy paced over view of Noumea City. You will be taken through the citys bays and beaches, and up to the best vantage points to view some amazing Noumean vistas. This tour also includes a stop at AnseVata beach (popular kite and windsurfer spot) Nouvata Hotel for 30 - 40 miniutes which includes tea, coffee and cakes. You can explore the close by shops or head over the road for a quick swim at AnseVata beach. – Be sure to ask your guide about the time to return to the bus.
Yellow Tchou-Tchou Train & The Bumble Bee TrainThis is the most popular tour and luckily we have alot of departures running. Its a great introduction to Noumea as a city and you get to visit all the local hotspots like the ouantoro lookout and the FOL look out points, past the bays and beaches and get loads of photo opportunities.
Head to Anse Vata Beach where the fun begins. You will have a safety briefing then Once you are all comfortable your adventure begins, you will ride your Segway along the famous Ansevata beach towards Lemon bay beach.Upon arrival at Lemon bay beach, visit a local chocolate shop "Tonton Jules", here you will have the chance to taste an assortment of chocolates and maybe even purchase some goodies to take home.Your final stop on this gourmet adventure ride will be at the la Promenade complex; here you will visit a local Gourmet shop where you can taste French delicacies like “Foiegras” and “Rillettes”.
LEGENDS OF MELANESIAYou get to discover the regions rich indigenous Kanak culture at the Tjibaou Cultural Centre – built as a tribute to a remarkable man, Pro-independence Kanak leader Tjibaou who was assassinated in 1989. This centre was designed by world famous architechRenzo Piano.. Does the name ring a bell? He also designed Pacific Dawn and Pacific Jewel. Hear fascinating tales of Kanakmyths and folklore on a guided walk through the shaded, flora lined pathway leading to the three imposing, traditional Melanesian huts from three different regions. Back within the main air-conditioned Centre, a guide will introduce the various exhibition rooms housing precious ritual masks and costumes, totem poles and sculptures, all of an exceptional standard.
A guided tour around the city on a coach. Visit the 2 main look out points for pics of the ship in the harbour and the New Caledonia lagoon. On the way back, stop of at La Capoule for some cheese tastings complimenting with wine.
City Sights and AquariumThis 2 hour tour is a great way to see the Noumea city sights and one of Noumea’s greatest attractions, the state of the art Aquarium. The aquarium is a showcase of the New Caledonian Lagoon with coral reefs and its inhabitants found in New Caledonian waters like sea snakes, stone fish, turtles, sharks and stingrays. It is also home to the Nautilus, only ever found in the great depths of the noumean lagoon. Living coral displays are surprising and impressive. This tour is a great hit with the kids.
Join one of Noumea’s famous YellowTchouTchou trains for the trip down to Lemon Bay. This fully guided fun trip has a hileriouscommentry along the way about life on this small island all the while waving at the tooting cars. You will arrive at Les Trios brew bar for a pitcher of beer and to chill out with the locals.
Travel by coach with your guide you will drive through the bays and beaches of Nouméa viewing various landmarks before arriving at the Mangrove Boardwalk.Enter into the mysterious Caledonian mangrove, where you will walk along the newest boardwalk in the cityand have opportunity to observe little animals and components of this strange and remarkable fauna &flora.After your walk around the mangroves, you will drive by the Canons look out pointFrom the Canon look out point you will get beautiful view over Noumea's lagoon and bays. Your return transfer to the ship is via the old residential area of Noumea where most colonial houses are still standing and then through the city centre.
Sail the baysTrue Sailing experience. Get a different perspective of the Noumea coastline on this beautiful catamaran. You can be as hands on as you like or just sit back, relax and enjoy the ride.
Our last night tour in Noumea, head out to the beautiful resturaunt of 1881 on one of our famous tchoutchou trains to enjoy some beautiful crepes suzette. You can eat as many as you like. You will be entertained by the staff, get to enjoy the beautiful ambiance of this great resturaunt and relax before returning to Pacific Dawn.
LifouLifou is one of my favourite ports of call on this cruise for so many reasons. You can do as much or as little as you like in this beautiful port of call. Lifou is the largest of the Loyalty islands and is located 190kms east of Noumea. This is a day where you need to slow down…. Just about everyone here speaks French, not many speak English. You will find that these are far less populated island. Lifou is famed in this region for breathtaking cliff top views and small secret beaches. I am sure your going to love Lifou..I hope you got in your tour requests early as we have very limited capacity here. Right by the tender pier, you will see a nice sandy beach. It is a good place to swim. Often you see large sea-turtles in this bay – look out for them on the tender-boat ride.
TenderingThe first of 3 tender portsIF YOU ARE IN LIFOU AND YOU HAVE MORNING TOURS, PLEASE CHECK TICKETSNo cost to this service – can not pre arrange ticketsGo to lounge specified on your pacific daily – collect tickets – wait in a public area to be called Continuous serviceDelays around Lunch time and the last tender – be patient
Quick FactsLargest Loyalty Islands coral atoll Part of New Caledonia (French territory)Strong Kanak heritageCredit cards not acceptedChange small amounts of CPF currency on board Can use small denomination aussie dollars but things will be cheaper in local currency
What to doVisit Luecila Beaches (one of ship's tours)Explore Coves, grottos & imposing cliffs (tours)Lourdes Chapel (visit on foot) – Renovating at the moment so can not go inside but great photos opportunities of Pacific Dawn in the bay from the lookout point.Snorkel and swim in the sparkling Coral Sea, walk to the beautiful view points… unwind on white sand beach of Santal bay
Lourdes Chapel (visit on foot) – Renovating at the moment so can not go inside but great photos opportunities of Pacific Dawn in the bay from the lookout point.
Getting AroundShip anchors off Lifou, at small village called EasoTender boat transfer to shoreNo taxis on the island, some locals with transport – transport not airconditioned, island stylesNo public telephones
Melanesian encounter, Culture tourThis tour is designed to give you an insight into local culture and village life. There will be a visit to a church, then a visit Chief’s hut - here you remove your shoes, then duck down low to enter and sit on the floor to hear about the local way of life and the system of local chiefs and customs. Then there is time to, explore the village & seea demonstration of traditional cooking methods, with a chance to sample too. A great tour if you want to know about the local people and the way they live, charming people. – a chance to practice your school French perhaps.
The cliffs of JokinThis is our scenic tour on Lifou Island, There is no better view on the island than the Cliffs of Jokin, beautiful, with clear water below and breath taking views. you will be driven to the rugged north coast of Lifou with a stop at a vanilla plantation on the way to see Lifou’s biggest export, the vanilla pod. You can see how they farm and prepare these aromatic pods before heading to the small town of Jokin. You will visit the scenic cliffs and if you are keen then you can take a stroll down to the bottom but be advised, there are about 200 steps to the bottom.
Luecila Beach. This is a quaint beach which is not fringed with bars, shops or stalls. Luecila beach is a beautiful curve of white sand fringing a fine swimming lagoon framed with palm trees. Sounds like a postcard doesn’t it. This is not a commentated transfer over to Lucelia beach, and the driver does not speak a lot of English so I suggest you try out some of your best French on him. You may find it quite difficult to get here independently as it is quite far and transportation on the island is limited.
Forest and Secret GrottoOne of the most popular tours of the day and usually sells out fast.An informative guided nature tour complete with a visit to a secret candle lit grotto, This tour is done in small groups which is best way to see this type of place. You are led through the forest towards the caves with a commentary on the local plants and the medicinal uses for the local melaniseans. Once at the cave, you can view the staligmites and staligtites inside the candle lit cave. The guide will have a couple of torches or flashlights but if you have your own, you might want to bring it with you. This tour does involve walking over uneven ground, and access to the cave is via uneven stairs, you can decide for yourself on the day, whether you want to go in or not and can just wait outside for the group if you prefer. You will get a special treat as the locals demonstrate hunting techniques for wild pigs, birds and crab and get to get up close and personal with their favourite local dish, the coconut crab.
Embarking on this journey you will pass across the island, view traditional houses with magnificent flowering gardens and tropical palm trees as you make your way over to your destination, the Maison de la vanille or The Vanilla house.Here you will have the opportunity to learn about the Cultivation, Preparation and History behind the plantation and the vanilla pods of the Loyalty Islands. Enjoy a gentle stroll through the plantation and tropical forest to visit the wildlife, see a variety of animals including coconut crabs, bats and pigs. Next visit the vanilla processing plant, here you will learn about the drying and exporting process of the vanilla beans before having the opportunity to visit the onsite shop to purchase souvenirs.
This Bustling resort town well set up for every type of tourist, with an absolutely Huge choice of activites to chose from.English widely spoken and Aussie dollaars are widely accepted. If you are going out Duty Free shopping which i am sure you willRemember that many of the duty free shops will hold onto your purchases / and send them to the ship at the end of the day this is normal practice in these ports. Alcohol is kept in bond onboard and returned to you at the end of the cruise
What to doExcellent & varied shopping, duty freeCascade Waterfalls–rainforest & swimming ponds (available on ship’s tour)Visit a resortEkasup Cultural Village – award winning tourist attractionAdventure Experiences – Off-road buggy, kayak, horse-riding, snorkelling, abseil down the waterfall, Zorbing
Eat Drink EnjoyDining out in Vila generally means good food, friendly staff and great views.Lots of restaurants and eateries in town.
Getting AroundShip docks at Vila’s pier, 3km from townTaxis outside port gates. TAXI’s will have T on its number plate and Bus will have B on its number plate. The taxis cost about $20 per car of 4 to get into town /, a 5/10 minute drive. They will cost around $80 - $100 to get to cascade waterfalls. Taxis – You can barter and agree a price before you leave.Taxi vans at port gates – per person shuttle to town. The shuttles ask $3 per person and waits until all the seats have been filled. Tours are done in small buses, some of the buses may not have not much A/C & Microphones here, again this is island life and they do not have the luxiouries we are all used to at home. Walking to town would take you about half an hour and could be quiet hot and uncomfortable especially on a sunny, humid day.Public telephones in downtown Vila
Mama’s markets , There is colourful handicraft market just outside the port gates that stays open all day – until the ship sails. This is where you will find your ‘Island attire / T-shirts, grass skirts, sarongs, / carvings, shells, / Remember quarantine regulations on taking anything decorated with seeds, / feathers, turtle shells, etc. Back home to Australia.Passport stamped at the local post office in town.
Port Vila – ‘right meeting point’ & Port Vila – ‘left – Going to Town’If you are on a tour then you need to meet us at the back of the ship. Turn right off the gangway and head towards the white tents. But if you just want to go to the town you go to you turn left after you exit the ship.
Waterfall Eco Tour“Eden on the River” is a privately owned estate of absolute untouched rain forest and stunning natural beautyDeparting the wharf you will travel along Vanuatu’s scenic South Coast to Eden on the River. Here you will be welcomed by thefriendly staff and receive a personalised narrated tour of the beautiful tropical gardens before entering into the lush rainforest. The guides are very passionate about their own piece of paradise.After a pleasant gradual walk down to the River, you will be able to enjoy a refreshing swim or “tyre tube” in the serene riverand cascading waterfalls. After your swim sit back and relax and take in the delightful sounds of the bush and the river whileenjoying a freshly squeezed local lime juice and a tropical fruit platter which will showcase some of the exotic tropical fruitsorganically grown on the property. Great tour for families.
SECRET GARDEN OUTDOOR CULTURAL CENTREArriving at the gardens, you will be met by your specialist guide, who will introduce you to the highlights of this tropical treasure trove. You will witness a variety of palms, fruit trees, colorful shrubs, vegetable crops, medicinal plants and cascading vines. You will find a variety of local birdlife, a turtle pond, snakes, lizards and a pre-historic looking coconut crab.Read amazing custom stories, see some of the strange customs of old including real historical photos and information. Explore a cannibal house. View an interesting collection of WWII photos and artifacts, explore a real chiefs home and see how kava is prepared in the traditional manner. A great insite into the Vanuatu history and culture
Ekasup Cultural Village Magical & Mysterious Ekasup. Set in A beautiful location in the rainforest. This is one of the best tours in the South Pacific. On this tour discover how they cope in everyday life in a village with no electricity, you’ll be amazed and fascinated by these wonderful people. We Always get great comments from our passengers. EKASUP Received Vanuatu’s Tourism award for 2 years for best tourist attraction. The locals are enthusiastic and end with a fantastic dance routine.This tour is highly recommended.
Plantation Horse Riding The horse riding will suit all levels of riders. You’ll have a one hour horse ride through both the copra plantation and the jungle-like rainforest. Then about 30 minutes to relax and have a swim. Even have the opportunity to take the saddle off the horse and go swimming with your horse. There is a minimum age of 12 years old to participate and a maximum weight of 110kgs.
Anyone like pub crawls, this is the best one in the south pacific!! Head to 4 different bars in Vila city and be entertained along the way. Be sure to bring your singing voice. Food will be provided at each destination.
Gentle lagoon cruise past Resorts, Villages, and Mansions. This tour is fantastic for anyone who just wants to relax and meander down this calm lagoon.
A different perspective of Vila, the aerial one. View resorts, villages, the reef and the beautiful pacific dawn tied up alongside the wharf. Flight time is only 7 minutes but the views are spectacular and worth it.
Glass Bottom & Snorkel Safari View the marine life from the comfort of this purpose built coral viewing vessel. The crew will hand feed the fish to maximize your viewing pleasure. You also get a chance to snorkel at a sheltered reef near ifira island.
Tranquility Island and Turtle Sanctuary.Departing the wharf travel over the jungle clad hills with picturesque views along the way to beautiful Havanah Harbour. Board, the Seaspray a 43 foot sailing Trimaran, and cruise or sail, depending on wind, across the beautiful azure blue waters of Havannah Harbour. There is a good chance that you will see spinner dolphins on the way across the harbour or on the way back in the afternoon. Your destination, the Tranquility Turtle conservatory where baby Hawksbill Turtles are raised until one year old then tagged and released into the wild.you will be given a mini tour of the appropriate technology used at the base including the use of solar power and other innovations. Then you take a 15 to 20 minute tropical bush walk to the tree clad picnic area at Jade Beach and the warm clear waters of the bay.Upon arriving at the beach, a packed picnic lunch is served, after lunch you may choose to swim or snorkel off the beach or join the snorkel tender for a trip to the outer reef.
Full Day Tours We have 1 main full day tour in Port Vila, the Round Island Safari, a great tours that cover the whole island – and includes a drive round the island – a chance to swim – a bit of history and culture – and lunch is provided.You will visit a cultural village – where you can witness the ancient art of fire walking. Depending on how quickly the drive around the island is completed, usually Half an hour or so in Town for shopping on the way back, check with your tour guide.
Dream Cove Sail & Snorkel Adventure A very popular tour which always receives great comments from our passengers every time we come to Vila. You will Board this classic boat for this great snorkeling tour. Yes the boat does have sails - Will get the sail up if there is wind to use them, sometimes use the motor. Your yacht will sails by Irririki and Ifira Island, to the sheltered anchorage at Dream Cove. You are anchored in 6 meters of water, great spot for snorkelling or you can go ashore with one of the crew in the dingy for a sunbathe on the beach or a walk through the local flora and fauna.
IF you are going to dive – we will send you some forms – Please return these to us ASAP as they are important for dive tours.For anyone hesitant about taking their first dive, this is a perfectly safe and fun way to break the ice. Dive in the Konanda Reef area which has a large variety of hard coral and fish life. For the slightly more experienced diver, but one who has not got their PADI yet… TwinBommiesThe Twin Bommies features a sheer wall, as well as two fascinating bommie formations riddled with grottos.
Pele Island and Snorkelling Adventure.Discover an area seemingly untouched by the outside would at Pele Island. With the fine white sandy beaches of Pele island, it makes the perfect backdrop for a day of swimming, snorkeling and relaxing. You will enjoy a scenic boat ride to your destination and will get to meet the villagers with their much loved hospitality. A picnic lunch is included and will be accompanied by music from the local string band. A great day out for the whole family.
Pango Cove Advanced Snorkel Adventure One of our topsnorkelling tours!!PANGO ADVENTURE SNORKEL –Small group tour so you will need to book quickly as this tour always books out. The protected crystal clear waters provides one of Vanuatus top snorkeling locations sheltered from the south easterly trade winds. See an abundance of colourful tropical fish. You will need to be resonably confident in the water to do this tour.
We have Thrilla in Vila – Jet Boat AdventureAn exhilarating ride around the beautiful tropical harbour of Vila full of twists, turns and ofcourse plenty of splashes!! Powered by a 390 horsepower Jet Engine and reaching speeds of up to 70km p/h this will be an unforgettable experience. The jetboat is built to the highest NZ safety standards and is operated with a unique Vanuatu flair. The minimum age for this tour is 5 years old and must be 120cm tall travelling with a guardian. This boat leaves from our Tour Meeting point so is a great way to finish off your day with a bit of adventure and excitement!!
Want to cruise again but not sure where or when yet? See your experienced Future Cruise sales manager Sam to find out more about what deals we have onboard, our future destinations like PNG, and South Australia. Sam is located on Deck 8 in the Library and her hours are advertised in the daily.
P&O new Charity – Pacific PartnershipThe P&O Pacific Partnership is P&O Cruises’ way of giving back to the Pacific Island nations it has been visiting and helping build for decades. We aim to improve the health services and education to these areas. We will be raising funds to build new community health aid posts, providing training for village health workers, and improving education opportunities. $1 on every passenger account over the age of 18 to go towards helping these communities. If you do not wish to participate, please go to the reception desk to have it removed.
Ladies and Gentlemen, this concludes our Port and Tours Talk presentation. Before you leave, we have a special prize draw, where1 lucky person will get $100 off the cost of their shore tours this cruise. Be sure to look out for our prizes through out the cruise.
