I did speak to one NZer who travelled to the other side of the island at 0400 and went out in a Banana boat.  Although it was rough at times he loved it and they scored a few fish including a wahoo, GT and also a dog tooth I think.

 

I scored the name of a local with a Banana boat who would have taken me out of Port Vila for 15,000 Vatu (just over $200).  He does a few charters and the previous week had caught Mahi Mahi, GT's, Yellow fin and Doggies.  If anyone wants his details flick me a PM.

 

As for the holiday itself I loved the place and would go back tomorrow.  We didn't get a bad meal, the servings were well priced and big enough to fill anyone up.  Some of the best burgers meals I have ever tasted also.  The beef is grown locally and they have so much they export a lot of it.

 

If you're staying at Vila, make sure you get around the island, the northern end is almost pristine and completely different.

 

What appealed to me most was that unlike other places we have visited, Vanuatu was still very natural and authentic, and the locals all smile and are genuinely friendly and welcoming. 

 

One of our tours fell over and a staff member from the complex where we were staying took on a day trip around the island which was the highlight of the trip, and at 10,000 vatu was awesome value for money.

 

Am planning to head back and check and base ourselves in Santos next time.

 

 

 

 

 

 

If I was to go to Vila again I'd try to head out with OceanBlue. I havent been out with them but they seem to specialise more in the sportfishing side of things and they got some pretty good fish while we were over there.