Aore Island Resort

Aore Island Resort is a family-run retreat situated on the shores of the South Pacific, just a ten-minute ferry ride from Luganville. The resort is managed by the Gray family, who have focused on providing an authentic Vanuatu experience through local architecture and hospitality.

The resort is positioned as an ideal base for those looking to explore the diverse marine environments of Espiritu Santo. From the deep wrecks of the ocean floor to the vibrant reef flats, the surrounding waters offer a wide range of diving opportunities.

Diving operations at the resort are carried out in collaboration with selected local operators, including Aore Adventure Sports & Lodge, Pacific Dive, and Turtle Bay Lodge Diving. This partnership ensures that divers have access to established local expertise and reliable boat transfers.

The resort itself maintains a focus on local culture, offering guests the chance to participate in traditional activities such as coconut milk preparation or local weaving. This approach creates a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere for those staying on the island.

The local dive partners provide training for various certification levels. This includes the Open Water Diver course for those beginning their underwater journey, as well as various other certifications to progress through the diving ranks.

While the resort focuses on accommodation and atmosphere, diving kit is available through the local partner operators. For those travelling light, fins and masks are available for hire, and snorkeling equipment is included for guests staying at the resort.

For those requiring a full setup, the local dive partners provide complete equipment hire to ensure you have the necessary kit for both reef and wreck diving.

The reefs around Espiritu Santo are home to a diverse array of marine life. You will regularly encounter reef fish, turtles, and reef sharks patrolling the coral structures.

The coral architecture is a highlight of the region, featuring vast expanses of plate corals and brain corals. These structures provide the essential habitat for the local ecosystem, including various species of reef fish and larger pelagics.

Macro life and smaller inhabitants are also present, including moray eels (Muraenidae) and lionfish tucked into the crevices of the reef and wreck structures.

The best time to plan your diving in this region is between May and October, which brings the cooler season with steady breezes and sunny days. During this period, the conditions are generally most favourable for exploring the outer reefs.

Between November and April, the weather can become notably hot and humid. Divers should be prepared for these tropical conditions when planning their trips to the wrecks or the outer reef systems.