How to Get to Aore Island Resort from Port Vila [2025-2026 Guide]
To get to Aore Island Resort from Port Vila, the most efficient way is to fly from Port Vila’s Bauerfield International Airport to Santo-Pekoa International Airport in Luganville, followed by a 15-minute ferry or water taxi to the resort. Alternatively, adventurous travelers can take a 24-hour ferry from Port Vila to Luganville and then transfer to the resort. Scheduling transfers with the resort ensures a smooth journey.
Learn how to get to Aore Island Resort from Port Vila in 2025–2026. Explore flights, ferries, and water transfers for a smooth, scenic, and convenient journey to this tropical paradise.
Traveling from Port Vila to Aore Island Resort
Aore Island Resort is located near Luganville on Espiritu Santo Island in Vanuatu, offering stunning beaches, water sports, and tropical relaxation. Getting there from Port Vila, Vanuatu’s capital, involves a combination of air, sea, and land transport.
Travel Options Include:
- Domestic flights from Port Vila to Luganville
- Ferry services from Port Vila to Luganville
- Resort-arranged ferry or private water taxi from Luganville to Aore Island Resort
Why This Route Works:
-
- Combines speed (flights) and scenic experiences (ferry/water transfer)
- Offers flexibility for families, couples, or solo travelers
- Reliable scheduling with multiple options each day
Highlights:
- Quick domestic flights under one hour
- Short, comfortable ferry ride from Luganville to the resort
- Resort assistance ensures stress-free transfers
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Flying from Port Vila to Luganville (Santo-Pekoa Airport)
Flying is the fastest and most convenient option for reaching Aore Island Resort from Port Vila.
Details:
- Duration: ~55 minutes
- Cost: Approximately $130–650 AUD depending on class and season
- Airline: Air Vanuatu operates daily domestic flights
Tips for Flying:
- Book flights well in advance, especially during high season
- Arrive at Bauerfield International Airport at least 1 hour early for domestic flights
- Carry small luggage or hand baggage for easier water transfer
Advantages:
- Fastest way to reach Espiritu Santo
- Ideal for short stays or luxury travelers
- Minimal travel fatigue
Things to Consider:
- Daily flights available
- Comfortable and safe travel
- Direct access to Santo-Pekoa International Airport
Ferry from Luganville to Aore Island Resort
Once in Luganville, the final leg to Aore Island Resort is via ferry or water taxi, a scenic 15-minute ride across the lagoon.
Details:
- Duration: ~15 minutes
- Cost: Approximately 1,750 Vatu per person
- Operator: Aore Island Resort provides scheduled ferries and private water taxis
Tips for Ferry Travel:
- Schedule your ferry in coordination with your flight arrival
- Carry essentials like sunscreen, water, and light bags
- Confirm departure times with the resort to avoid delays
Advantages:
- Short, convenient, and scenic ride
- Family-friendly and safe
- Flexible schedule for early arrivals or late flights
Bullet Points:
- Scheduled ferries: 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, 4:30 PM
- Private water taxis available on request
- Ideal for all types of travelers
Alternative: Ferry from Port Vila to Luganville
For travelers who enjoy long scenic journeys, there is a weekly ferry service directly from Port Vila to Luganville.
Details:
- Duration: ~24 hours
- Cost: ~102 AUD per person
- Operator: Vanuatu Ferry
Tips:
- Bring snacks and entertainment for the long journey
- Book in advance to secure your seat, especially in peak season
- Expect overnight travel conditions with basic seating
Advantages:
- Scenic coastal experience
- Budget-friendly compared to flights
- Perfect for travelers not pressed for time
Things to Consider:
- Weekly schedule, plan carefully
- Overnight travel requires preparation
- Arrives directly in Luganville for resort transfer
Private Water Taxi Transfers
Aore Island Resort also offers private water taxi transfers for ultimate convenience and flexibility.
Details:
- Duration: ~15 minutes
- Cost: ~1,750 Vatu per person
- Service: Can be scheduled anytime for resort guests
Tips:
- Reserve a water taxi in advance for precise timing
- Perfect for families with children or travelers carrying luggage
- Provides direct resort drop-off from Luganville
Advantages:
- Flexible departure times
- Exclusive and comfortable experience
- Easy coordination with resort staff
Things to Consider:
- Ideal for private arrivals
- Can accommodate larger groups
- Quick and stress-free
Summary of Transportation Options
| Option | Duration | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight Port Vila → Luganville | ~55 mins | $130–650 AUD | Fastest and most convenient |
| Ferry Port Vila → Luganville | ~24 hrs | 102 AUD | Scenic but lengthy |
| Scheduled Resort Ferry | ~15 mins | 1,750 Vatu | Short, coordinated with arrival |
| Private Water Taxi | ~15 mins | 1,750 Vatu | Flexible timing, direct to resort |
Tips for a Smooth Journey to Aore Island Resort
- Book flights and transfers in advance to secure your preferred schedule.
- Coordinate with the resort for ferry or water taxi timing.
- Carry small luggage for easier boarding.
- Have local currency (Vatu) ready for ferry or taxi fees.
- Arrive early if traveling by ferry to ensure seating.
Things to Consider:
- Schedule flights and ferries carefully
- Confirm all resort transfers ahead of time
- Travel light for easy water transport
- Keep cash handy for small expenses
FAQs About Traveling to Aore Island Resort
1. What is the fastest way to get from Port Vila to Aore Island Resort?
Flying to Santo-Pekoa Airport in Luganville, followed by a short ferry or water taxi, is the quickest option.
2. How long is the ferry from Luganville to Aore Island Resort?
The ferry takes about 15 minutes and is operated by the resort.
3. Can I travel directly by ferry from Port Vila?
Yes, there is a weekly ferry that takes about 24 hours, but flights are much faster.
4. How much does a water taxi from Luganville to the resort cost?
Private water taxis cost approximately 1,750 Vatu per person.
5. Do I need to book transfers in advance?
Yes, coordinating your flight and water transfers with the resort ensures a smooth arrival.