Ratua Private Island Celebrates New Flights to Vanuatu with Agent Giveaway

The Ratua Private Island in Vanuatu is marking the introduction of new air services with an offer that provides travel agents the opportunity to win a seven-night stay for two people. This announcement follows significant increases in flight options to the island nation, enhancing its accessibility as a tourism destination.

Brett Fasher, CEO of Ratua Private Island, highlighted the importance of this development, particularly following disruptions caused by Air Vanuatu‘s shutdown. In a statement, Fasher commented, “It was pretty tough when Air Vanuatu shut down, and it is wonderful that so many other carriers have stepped in and substantially increased the number of seats and frequency of services to Vanuatu.”

Among the new services, Solomon Airways has commenced flights from Brisbane directly to Santo every Thursday, with an additional service from Auckland to Santo every Tuesday. This provides an ideal connection for visitors to Ratua, as the island is just a 30-minute boat ride from Santo. “The connectivity to Ratua Private Island has never been better,” Fasher added.

Further bolstering Vanuatu’s tourism opportunities, Qantas recently launched a direct flight from Brisbane to Port Vila. Additionally, Jetstar announced the commencement of up to four weekly direct flights from Sydney starting 12 December, potentially introducing 150,000 more seats to the destination annually.

Virgin Australia continues its long-standing support for Vanuatu, maintaining flights from Brisbane to Port Vila four days a week. Air Vanuatu remains operational with a daily domestic service linking Port Vila and Santo.

Fasher emphasized the significance of tourism for the local economy and expressed enthusiasm for the enhanced air services. “Tourism is incredibly important to the people and economy of Vanuatu. Once guests visit Vanuatu and Ratua Private Island, they fall in love with this place (as I did), but we obviously need a good range of air services to compete with other destinations,” he said.

Travel agents who book trips to Ratua Private Island between 15 October and 31 December 2024, for stays valid from 15 October 2024 to 31 December 2025, will be eligible to win the prize. The offer covers accommodation and all meals, excluding alcohol, spa, and off-island tours, although flights are not included.