Vanuatu Ferry – Everything You Need To Know About Travel To Espiritu Santo

As a nation of 83 islands spread over 650km, travel around Vanuatu can sometimes be tricky. With most visitors to the country opting to use commercial or charter flights to get around, we don’t want you to forget about the local ferry operators: Vanuatu Ferry and Big Sista.

Of the two, Big Sista is the smaller craft which you can read more about in this other article. Whereas Vanuatu Ferry is the larger, more commercial craft (and the more popular choice) which you can read more about right here!

Vanuatu Ferry Ticket Price

Those that have visited Vanuatu before will know that word of mouth (or the ‘coconut phone’) is the way we get most of our information. So it is not surprising that the best source of information for scheduling and booking is the Vanuatu Ferry Facebook page or by calling their phone number on +678 26872. 

Unfortunately, as far as I am aware, Vanuatu Ferry do not allow customers to book their tickets until the day before departure. To do so you will need to head to the Vanuatu Ferry office in Port Vila or the Vanuatu ferry terminal on Espiritu Santo to pay and collect your ticket. The majority of the time it is easy to get tickets, but it is worth getting to the wharf early or booking the day before to secure your spot.

At the time of writing a adult ticket from Port Vila to Espiritu Santo costs 12,000 VUV per person. This includes two pieces of luggage. This pretty much costs the same as Big Sista Ferry once you include all their fees.

Vanuatu Ferry Schedule

Vanuatu Ferry follows pretty much the same schedule as Big Sista Ferry. Departing Port Vila at around 2pm on Tuesday, arriving around 2pm in Espiritu Santo on Wednesday every week. Due to it’s size Vanuatu Ferry does not make as many stops as other smaller crafts. The main stop being in Malekula at around 6am on Wednesday. She then usually make the return trip from Espiritu Santo to Port Vila, leaving on Thursday and arriving on Friday.

Vanuatu is fairly reliable when it comes to their schedule and is a lot more organised than other operators. However sometimes the schedule changes due to weather or if there is high demand due to public holidays etc. So it’s worth following Vanuatu Ferry Facebook page for current updates.

Vanuatu Ferry Facilities

Vanuatu Ferry has two main passenger vessels which make the trips from Tanna, Port Vila and Espiritu Santo. Both have similar facilities.

When boarding the boat, luggage is organised into two different shipping containers, depending on your final destination. Once on board you will be asked for your ticket and to take your shoes off before heading upstairs. For this reason we highly recommend bringing a bag to place your shoes in (otherwise you will have to leave them on the lower deck). Plus bring a pair of socks, slippers or clean footwear to wear around the ferry.

Vanuatu Ferry Seating

Upstairs there are two decks. One with various passenger seating and another outside area.  The earlier you arrive the more choice you will have on where to sit. Many people bring matts or blankets and spread out on the floor which can be a pretty good option. As long as you don’t choose a heavy trafficked area or you will likely get stepped on! Some of the seating options include sofas which look very comfortable. Just be aware that as the boat starts filling up they will place people between you if there is space. 

Due to the amount of people on the boat and generally hot climate of Vanuatu it is good to grab a seat near the doors if you can. Others choose to sit or sleep out on the top deck which is nice and cool during the night. So long as it doesn’t rain! 

Cafe & Toilets

Also onboard is a small cafe. This is stocked with various sandwiches, pastries, snacks, hot and cold drinks. All of which for a reasonable price. However the options do tend to become more limited towards the end of the journey. If you are fond of instant noodles then these are a good option. Simply purchase some hot water from the bar. Otherwise bring your own snacks.

Lastly there are plenty of toilets on board for men and women. They are fairly clean and have sinks and mirrors for personal care.

Overview

All in all, travel around Vanuatu by ferry is not the most luxurious option and certainly takes a bit of time. But with some of the friendliest locals in the world you are sure to be looked after and get to where you need to.

So don’t be afraid to reach out to us at Triton Explorers if you need some help or have any questions. And If you have travelled with Vanuatu Ferry and want to share your experiences, please leave a comment below.