A Pristine Island of Natural Wonders and WWII History
4.9/5 ⭐Google 600+ Reviews | A+ Better Business Bureau
Overview
Espiritu Santo, the largest island in the nation of Vanuatu, offers a captivating blend of stunning natural beauty and fascinating World War II history. The island's main port, Luganville, serves as the gateway to a world of pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and unique geological wonders. Espiritu Santo’s unusual name, Spanish for "the Holy Spirit," traces back to a 17th-century expedition, and its character was forever changed during WWII when it became a major Allied military base, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of underwater relics.
Known affectionately as "Santo," the island is a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers. It is famous for its vibrant blue holes, world-class diving sites including historic shipwrecks, and some of the South Pacific's most idyllic white-sand beaches. This remote island offers a more authentic and less-developed experience than many other cruise destinations, allowing visitors to truly connect with its lush environment and warm, welcoming local culture.
For a truly unique experience, dive or snorkel the famous SS President Coolidge wreck. This luxury liner-turned-troopship sank during WWII and now lies in the deep blue waters off the coast, a spectacular artificial reef and one of the largest and most accessible shipwrecks for recreational diving in the world.
Tip: This is a must-do for certified divers. Many local operators offer guided dives for all experience levels, even for non-divers who want to explore from the surface.
Espiritu Santo is renowned for its enchanting blue holes, natural spring-fed swimming holes with incredibly clear, vibrant blue water. Visit popular ones like the Nanda Blue Hole or Matevulu Blue Hole for a refreshing swim in a truly magical setting.
Tip: The color of the water is most intense in bright sunlight. Arrive in the late morning or early afternoon for the most spectacular views and photos.
Spend a perfect beach day at Champagne Bay, a beach famous for its sparkling white sand and crystal-clear waters. It gets its name from a natural phenomenon where the water fizzes like champagne at low tide as it passes through volcanic rock.
Tip: The bay is often a tender-only stop for cruise ships. Local vendors may be on hand to sell cold drinks and handicrafts.
Visit Million Dollar Point, a poignant and unusual WWII dive and snorkel site. At the end of the war, the U.S. military dumped millions of dollars worth of equipment, including jeeps and bulldozers, into the ocean. Today, it's a fascinating underwater museum where marine life thrives.
Tip: The site is easily accessible for snorkelers right from the beach. Even from the shore, you can often see some of the larger relics submerged in the clear water.
Take a stroll through the town of Luganville, the second-largest city in Vanuatu. Visit the local markets to experience the island's vibrant culture, sample tropical fruits like fresh pineapple and mangoes, and browse a variety of local handicrafts and souvenirs.
Tip: The main street of Luganville is unusually wide, a legacy of its time as a WWII US base. It’s an interesting detail to look for as you explore.
For a deeper cultural immersion, consider a guided tour to a local village. These excursions offer a chance to connect with the Ni-Vanuatu people, learn about their traditional customs, and witness demonstrations of local life, including cooking or crafting techniques.
Tip: Booking a tour that includes a village visit is the best way to ensure your visit is respectful and provides genuine cultural insights.
Aboard
Carnival Encounter
From
Brisbane, Australia
4 Sailings
Dec 30, 2025 - Jun 8, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Carnival Luminosa
From
Brisbane, Australia
2 Sailings
Dec 18, 2026 - Mar 27, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Carnival Luminosa
From
Brisbane, Australia
1 Sailing
Feb 22, 2026
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Our expert consultants and customer service teams are standing by to help with all of your cruising needs.
I was having some trouble finding the right cruise for the right price as a single traveler, but thanks to [our Cruise Expert] I was able to find it with Cruise Web. Thank you very much [our Cruise Expert]!
Camille G.
We have worked with [our Cruise Expert] several times and she makes it so easy and a pleasure to work with. She is very knowledgeable.
Linda F.
[Our Cruise Expert] was informative and very pleasant to work with. I'm not familiar with booking travel online and he made my experience pleasant.
Sharon E.
I would like to mention that for many years I really appreciate to have [our Cruise Expert] taking care of my cruises in the states. So, i'm glad to give five stars for him
Rudi D.
I am working with [our Cruise Expert] as my travel agent...he has been very helpful...he is very informative and knowledgeable about the places that I want to go on my Cruise....I would use [our Cruise Expert] and Cruise Web again to book another cruise...thank you...
Priscilla B.
[Our Cruise Expert] does an exceptional job of planning (with you) and coordinating a trip of your dreams! I can't wait to get started on the next one.
Sheralyn H.
Great working with [our Cruise Expert]! He was a tremendous help and steered us in the right direction every time! Helped us make memories for a lifetime!
Wendy F.
[Our Cruise Expert] always works hard to secure the bookings we have chosen and guides us through the process. She is always available to help and her advise is spot on.
James C.
We are residents in another country, and have used [our Cruise Expert] for years as we try to cruise around the entire world. She offers great service and stellar communication.
Dave O.
[Our Cruise Expert]does a wonderful job for me. I have had no glitches and I can count on things running smoothly when [our Cruise Expert] makes my arrangements.
Barbara H.
