Port Vila - Clearance Agents

Where is Port Vila?

Port Vila, the Capital of Vanuatu, is a sheltered anchorage for yachts with one of the most beautiful natural harbours in the world.  It lies on the SE side of the island of Efate (Shefa).

Entrance Notes and Cautions for Port Vila:

ALERT: Earthquake Damage: On December 17, 2024, a magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck Port-Vila causing considerable damage. Read news here.

A +- 5 meter deep +- 50-meter wide channel has been dredged through the previously shallow area south of Iririki Island, between Iririki Island and the Port area. This Channel is to the south of Iririki. This means that yachts with a draft of over three meters or a mast taller than 20 meters can now get access to the inner harbour from Pontoon Bay and around the south of Iririki Island through the new deep passage, also bypassing the overhead power line which was previously restricting access (for tall masts) to the inner harbour and also to Yachting World’s seawall and mooring area. The deepwater channel has channel markers fitted.

Note:  Due to increasing commercial activity, in Pontoon Bay and also the South part of Paray Bay, any yachts intending to use the channel must obtain permission from the Harbourmaster by calling Port Vila Harbourmaster on VHF Channel 16 or 12 prior to entering Pontoon Bay and/or prior to making use of the channel from either side.

The new international wharf and container terminal has now been completed as have the improvements to Port Vila’s seafront.

Due to an infestation of the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle, there are restrictions on vessel movements around the islands.  See the Biosecurity section for more details.

Cruiser Highlights for Port Vila:

Marine businesses here have worked hard together to make Port Vila a yachtie-welcoming place with good repair facilities. The Port Vila boatyard has recently been upgraded and offers DIY options as well as full service, plus cyclone proof moorings.  Old oil can also be disposed of at the boatyard.

There are good local medical services and Yachting World provides diesel, potable water, laundry and a dinghy dock. From there you can walk almost walk anywhere in town. The Waterfront Bar & Restaurant is open daily for lunch & dinner and has a special area for marina guests.

Vanuatu has banned single use plastic bags, straws and takeaway food containers.  Make sure you have suitable bags with you when going shopping.

Position:

17° 44.51'S, 168° 17.52'E (entrance to the bay)