Aso 62: Mystery Island, Vanuatu - laʻititi e tau le mafai

The southernmost island in the state of Vanuatu is Mystery Island. The small island measures only 1.5 square kilometers and is actually called Inyeug. It is the satellite island of Aneityum Island, which is only 680 meters away. Both islands belong to the Tafea Province. Mystery Island is known for its unique coral reef with a magnificent underwater world, as well as its beautiful white sandy beaches. The island is uninhabited. However, residents of Aneityum come to the island to sell their goods or work at the airport, which belongs to Aneityum. It was built by the Americans during World War II and consists of a grass airstrip that takes up almost the entire length of the island.

Mystery Island is considered a paradise in the South Pacific. The greatest attraction here is nature, especially the fascinating underwater world. To protect it, a marine protected area has been designated around the island. However, both coral reefs surrounding Mystery Island are allowed for snorkeling and diving.

We take the tender to Mystery Island. The sea is calm and landing at the pier is easy. After a few hundred meters, we find a spot and go swimming. Bright sand, gently sloping, water temperature just under 30 degrees, swimming is fun. Then we go around the island in just under an hour, half of it in pouring rain, which is also warm. Back at the starting point, the sun is shining brightly again. After the second swim, we decide to go back to the ship. We wait for the tender at the pier and get completely soaked for the second time. 20 minutes of tropical rain find their way everywhere. Our first stop on the ship is the shower. Nevertheless, a great day in the South Pacific.

PS Resourceful locals offer all kinds of goods and services at steep prices, for example, a beach chair rental for ten dollars.