By: Pete Turnbull, Welcome Ashore Vanuatu
Nestled in the heart of the South Pacific, Vanuatu is a paradise of vibrant cultures, pristine beaches, and breathtaking natural beauty and it’s somewhere I’m proud to have called home for more than 10 years. Together with my husband Lopez, I run the Waterfall Bar precinct and founded the Coffee Tree Café, two ventures that celebrate the spirit of our local community. Getting to know the people, the culture and the way of life has been truly humbling and I want to maintain what makes Vanuatu special.
Cruise tourism has helped us develop essential infrastructure and embrace soft skills, particularly in service and language. Looking ahead, there’s a powerful opportunity to further uplift our tour operators and local business owners, enabling us to create new attractions and share richer, more compelling stories of our culture. When managed responsibly, cruise tourism delivers meaningful benefits to our communities, our economy, and our unique environment.
Cruise ships offer a unique gateway for visitors to experience Vanuatu’s charm, often stopping at multiple destinations including Port Vila, Mystery Island, and Luganville. These short visits generate significant economic benefits. Local markets flourish as passengers purchase handcrafted souvenirs, fresh produce, and traditional cuisine. Tour operators, guides, and transport providers see increased demand, creating jobs and supporting livelihoods in remote areas where tourism might otherwise be limited.
Beyond the economic boost, cruise tourism fosters cultural exchange. Visitors engage with local customs, music, and dance, gaining a deeper appreciation for Vanuatu’s rich heritage. It’s a place where lifelong friendships are formed and return visits become part of the story.
Environmental stewardship is also a growing focus. Through partnerships with cruise lines and local authorities, initiatives such as waste management improvements and sustainable tourism training are helping to safeguard Vanuatu’s natural assets.
Cruise tourism can be a force for good when it’s shaped by the people who live here. That’s why I’m proud to be Vanuatu’s first Welcome Ashore Ambassador.
We’re bringing everyone to the table — local leaders, small businesses, government, and cruise operators — to make sure tourism works for our communities. It’s about listening, sharing, and building something together.
If you care about tourism that respects and uplifts local voices. I hope you’ll join us and please follow us on Facebook for more regular updates.