Swim with Turtles and Chase Waterfalls: Port Vila’s Blue Lagoon & Eden River Day Tour

Spend a compact, nature-rich day from Port Vila—meet hatchling turtles at Avi Bay, swim in the Blue Lagoon, and cool off beneath Eden on the River’s cascade. This 5–6 hour tour blends conservation, snorkeling, and waterfall swims with convenient cruise-port pickup.

Port Vila, Shefa Province•

5–6 hours

•By Adventure Collective•October 2025

The Experience

The bus eases out of Port Vila with the harbor still glittering behind you and the island's hills pressing green against the sky. Within minutes the hum of the town gives way to coconut-fringed roads and the occasional kava stall, and you begin a short loop of Efate that feels simultaneously remote and intimate. By midmorning you'll be at Avi Bay, where the conservation team nudges baby turtles into the water and giant sea turtles glide as if pulled by the current of a different clock. Later, the Blue Lagoon opens like a bright eye in the reef—warm, shallow water that dares you to swim—before Eden on the River finishes the day with a rainforest waterfall and a river pool cool enough to snap you alert.

Before You Go

Bring your own snorkel

Organizers don’t supply snorkel gear; bring a mask and snorkel for the best underwater views at high tide.

Use reef‑safe sunscreen

Protect fragile corals and your skin—apply sunscreen before you board the vehicle to avoid smearing gear.

Wear water shoes

River rocks at Eden can be slippery and sharp; closed-toe water shoes improve traction and comfort.

Carry small cash

Bring Vanuatu vatu for small market purchases and tips—duty-free shopping stops may accept cards but small vendors often prefer cash.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

•Local river pools upstream from Eden that are quieter and great for short dips
•Small coastal kava stalls en route where locals sell freshly prepared kava and tropical snacks

Wildlife

•Green turtle
•Hawksbill turtle

Conservation Note

Small community-led turtle projects work to protect nesting sites and juvenile turtles; visitors are encouraged to use reef-safe products and avoid touching marine life.

Vanuatu’s islands are part of Melanesia; local kastom (custom) governs village life and ceremonial practices like kava drinking, which visitors often encounter in small settlements.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Morning light, Golden hour (late afternoon), Overcast for waterfall detail

Key viewpoints:

• Edge of Blue Lagoon facing the reef
• River rim above Eden waterfall
• Avi Bay platform near the turtle pool

Subjects to capture:Turtles and swimmers, Waterfalls and plunge pools, Coastal panoramas and village scenes

What to Bring

✓

Swimsuit and quick-dry towelEssential

Needed for lagoon and river swims and dries quickly between stops.

✓

Snorkel mask and snorkelEssential

Essential for seeing turtles and reef details at Blue Lagoon (not always provided).

✓

Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential

Protects both your skin and the marine environment.

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Water shoesEssential

Protect feet on rockier shorelines and in river pools.

Common Questions

Is the tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?

Yes—pickup is within walking distance of the cruise port; guides wait at the Yumi Tours orange flag and the schedule is designed for port day windows.

Are snorkeling gears provided?

No—snorkel gear is not provided, so bring your own mask and snorkel for the best experience.

Can non-swimmers join?

Non-swimmers can enjoy most stops but should remain onshore during snorkeling; basic swimming ability is recommended for lagoon and pool entry.

Is lunch included?

Yes—lunch is included in the tour price and typically served at a shaded local spot between activities.

Are interactions with turtles safe and ethical?

The Avi Bay facility runs conservation-focused programs; interactions are supervised with limits to avoid stressing animals—follow guide instructions at all times.

What is the cancellation policy?

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before departure; tours may be canceled if there are insufficient travelers.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

5–6 hours

Location

Port Vila, Shefa Province

Difficulty

easy

Fitness Level

Light activity: able to stand, walk short uneven trails and enter/exit water; suitable for most fitness levels.

Free cancellation available

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