Sailing from Port Resolution to Efate, Vanuatu: Things to see and do in Efate
October 2nd, 2024
We sailed 133 nautical miles from Port Resolution, Tanna Island to Port Vila, Efate. Because we average 5.5 knots, this was an overnight passage for us. Leaving Port Resolution we had a 2 m following swell and very light winds. Too light to sail and the swell made it a bit rolly aboard but we received some shelter from it once sailing along the western coast of Erromango. After clearing Erromango, approximately 2100 hrs, we were no longer sheltered and the swell became uncomfortable again. With this, the wind strength and consistency started to increase because we were basically in an area with unlimited fetch. Fortunately, we had thought to reef before clearing Erromango.
Sailing past the active volcano Mt Yasur, Tanna Island
Between Erromango and Efate are two seamounts that we were warned about. Here the depth really shallows and causes a confused sea state which can become quite choppy and uncomfortable. We had plotted our course to go on the eastern side of these seamounts but could still feel the effects of them. The sail from Erromango to Efate was uncomfortable due to the choppy sea state (wind, shallowness, and tide) and entering Efate, we had winds between 25-40 knots behind us. Fortunately the swell was also behind us. It was a relief to find shelter from the swell as we entered Port Vila.
Sailing along the coast of Erromango Island before sunset
Port Vila is beautiful. The water is crystal clear light lagoon blue. You can literally see the bottom in some places quite clearly. We saw the odd sea krait swim past the boat while moored at Yachting World Marina. We found Port Vila to be quite sheltered from wind and swell. Mooring at Yachting World Marina is simple. We radioed the marina and they send a tender out to guide you to the berth (it's along the sea wall) and they help you tie your bow lines to a mooring ball and the stern lines to the sea wall. Getting on/off the boat can be tricky because the tides are quite large in Port Vila and the sea wall doesn't float with the tides. They provide you with a plank to walk across. There are other options along the seawall where a more suitable gangplank is provided, which has handrails, is wider, and is secured to the seawall. We chose this option the second time we moored in the marina.
Tāiko enjoying a little break whilst moored at Yachting World Marina, Port Villa
We really enjoyed our time in Vanuatu. The people are so warm, kind, and welcoming. I think it's true what they say, that the Vanuatu people are the happiest people in the world. With the trade winds blowing consistently strong, we decided not to sail to Luganville, Santo Island because sailing back would mean to sail upwind in 25-30 knots of wind with 2 m plus swells (there's no reef surrounding Vanuatu). Instead, we decided to see Efate by land and hired a local person who drove us around the island stopping at some top spots. The highlight of the trip was visiting Pepeyo Cultural Village where we learned the traditional way of life from the people who come from Futuna Island. Other highlights were stopping at the Blue Lagoon, visiting the Siviri Caves, and learning about Tanna Island coffee.
Adam swinging into the Blue Lagoon
If you're interested in seeing some of Efate's highlights, please watch the video below.
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