Richard Butler | Exclusive Report by TRAVEL WEEKLY | 13TH, FEBRUARY 2025
Despite ongoing earthquake recovery operations, Australians are still looking to Vanuatu for their next holiday as bookings for May surge.
The 7.3 magnitude earthquake caused temporary disruptions and wave of cancellations for travel in December and early January.
All four airlines operating between Australia and Vanuatu have maintained their schedules, ensuring seamless access to the island nation in under three hours and supporting Vanuatu’s ongoing recovery. Cruise ships also continue to visit Santo and Mystery Island, reinforcing Vanuatu’s accessibility and appeal as a holiday destination.
According to Jenny Price, product manager at Fusion Holidays, demand for Vanuatu holidays is strengthening, with forward bookings for April to June showing positive momentum, particularly in May.
“We’re seeing steady interest in Vanuatu for the coming months and with more flight options and fantastic package deals available, we expect this momentum to continue throughout 2025,” Fusion Holidays product manager Jenny Price said.
Mark Ferszt, product development director with Ignite Holidays also reported significant year-on-year growth in Vanuatu bookings, reinforcing renewed traveller confidence in the destination.
“2024 has been a milestone year for us, with bookings soaring by 103 percent compared to the previous year, a true testament to the enduring appeal of Vanuatu and our commitment to delivering exceptional holiday experiences,” he said.
“Even with the liquidation of national carrier Air Vanuatu in May and earthquake in December 2024, demand for the destination has remained incredibly strong.
“My Vanuatu’s dedicated Customer Service Team successfully rebooked more than 80 per cent of impacted passengers in the months that followed.
“This remarkable achievement reinforces the strength of the My Vanuatu brand and we’re excited to inspire even more Australians to discover the breathtaking beauty, warm hospitality, and unique experiences that make Vanuatu such a special place.”
Loic Bernier, chairman at Vanuatu Hotels and Resorts Association (VHRA) emphasised that tourism is at the heart of Vanuatu’s recovery, with industry operators working hard to ensure a strong future for the sector.
“Tourism is the engine of Vanuatu’s economy, and its swift rebound following the earthquake is a testament to the resilience of our industry. Over 80% of accommodation providers are welcoming guests and essential services have been restored across the islands, ensuring visitors can enjoy the best of Vanuatu,” Bernier said.
Adela Issachar Aru, Vanuatu Tourism Office CEO said Vanuatu is open and invites Australians to be part of the recovery journey, to experience Vanuatu firsthand in 2025.
“Vanuatu is open and ready to welcome visitors with the same warmth and beauty that have always defined us,” Aru said.
“The vast majority of our tourism businesses are fully operational, with 80 per cent of operators minimally impacted and resuming operations within days of the earthquake. Popular tours, restaurants and accommodations are welcoming visitors as usual.
“While Port Vila’s CBD remains closed for repairs, visitors can still enjoy the best of Vanuatu. The iconic Mama’s Markets and fresh produce stalls have been relocated around the city, ensuring an authentic cultural experience for travellers.
