See Previous 2005 Voyage Logs

Natasha and Fraser’s Vanuatu Experience

There is really no better way to experience a Pacific destination like Vanuatu than by cruising on a boat such as the Soren Larsen. Our voyage enabled us to explore remote and unspoilt destinations that are otherwise unreachable by air or road. The Soren Larsen is a well respected vessel in the Pacific Islands as she has travelled to these locations numerous times. Over the years she has formed many fruitful connections with the locals, allowing us to be warmly welcomed and treated to special feasts and ceremonies.

On only our second night on board, we had our first experience with the locals at Chief Nelson’s village in the postcard perfect tropical bay of Asanvari, on the island of Maewo. We were given: a tour of Chief Nelson’s village (including neighbouring waterfall), had a game of football with some of the locals, were treated to some local Kastom (custom) dancing, experienced a local boar feast, and finally had a Kava party with a typical local string band.

Within the first few days of being on board we had been aloft and sighted our first flying fish and sea turtles. We joined in with setting the sails (despite the lack of wind) and took part in everyday watch duties. This allowed us to get to know all the (permanent and voyage) crew really well and have a real taste of tall ship sailing.

During our voyage we had many opportunities to go snorkelling in amazing, untouched waters such as the coral reefs of the Maskelyne Islands. We also had the rare experience of swimming with the majestic Dugong (a large sea grass eating mammal), who makes Lamen Bay his home, along with the numerous sea turtles.

Throughout the voyage we met many locals on our journey from Santo to Villa and we were often brought fresh mangos, pawpaw and bananas in the out riggers that sailed to greet us on arrival at various bays. We were always greeted with a smile, and had the opportunity to trade with the locals (often trading t-shirts instead of money) to bring memories of Vanuatu back to New Zealand.

Soren Larsen will be visiting these destinations again in 2006 - see schedule