Small number of bus operators tarnishing Vanuatu tourism

January 19, 2026 10:16 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Doddy Morris.

The Department of Tourism (DoT) has acknowledged ongoing concerns over harassment and aggressive solicitation faced by cruise ship visitors in Port Vila, admitting that unacceptable behaviour by a small number of public transport providers continues to persist despite existing management measures.

The DoT said it takes the matter seriously and is reinforcing efforts to ensure cruise ship visitors experience safe, respectful, and enjoyable visits while ashore in Port Vila.

“The Department has consistently raised concerns regarding breaches of permit conditions, aggressive solicitation, or harassment with the Public Land Transport Authority (PLTA) and the Vanuatu Police Force (VPF). Unfortunately, these unacceptable behaviours continue to persist, despite our efforts,” the DoT relayed in a statement to the Vanuatu Daily Post.

The comments follow public complaints from cruise ship visitors who described being persistently harassed by some local bus drivers and informal tour operators upon disembarking in Port Vila. One tourist reported being continuously approached, followed, and pressured despite repeated refusals, prompting their group to return to the ship after spending only about an hour ashore.

Carnival Cruise Line has also responded to the issue, confirming it is engaging with local authorities. A spokesperson said the company is aware of a Facebook post raising concerns about a guest’s experience in Port Vila and wants all guests to enjoy visiting Vanuatu. The cruise line said it is proactively engaging with relevant authorities to ensure guests have a fun and relaxed experience when coming ashore.

While acknowledging the complaints, the DoT emphasised that the vast majority of cruise ship visitors continue to enjoy positive and memorable experiences in Port Vila and that most Ni-Vanuatu engaged in tourism and transport services demonstrate professionalism, hospitality, and respect.

“These efforts are central to maintaining Vanuatu’s reputation as a warm and welcoming destination,” the Department said.

However, it acknowledged that a small number of disruptive public transport providers continue to engage in behaviour that undermines visitor experiences and creates frustration for tourists and compliant operators alike. The Department stressed that isolated incidents should not be generalised across the entire sector and said it continues to work closely with cruise lines, port authorities, and other stakeholders to ensure a safe and well-managed environment for visitors.

Unacceptable incidents involving harassment and aggressive solicitation have also been reported by other authorities, including the Vanuatu Maritime Safety Authority, the National Security Council, the Port Vila City Council (PVCC), and the Department of Ports and Harbour.

The Department clarified that the regulation, licensing, and enforcement of taxi and bus operators fall under the mandate of the PLTA, with enforcement support from the VPF. It said concerns regarding non-compliance have been repeatedly raised with both agencies, but the behaviour has continued.

A cruise traffic management plan endorsed by the National Cruise Tourism Management Committee and the PVCC has been in place since the resumption of cruise ship visits to Port Vila in August 2025.

As part of ongoing and future actions, the VPF has committed to strengthening patrols and visibility on cruise ship days to ensure visitor safety. The PLTA is implementing on-the-spot fines for non-compliant operators and is encouraging the public and visitors to report incidents for proper investigation and disciplinary action.

The PVCC has also updated its traffic management plan for cruise days to allow smoother movement around the city and seafront areas. Tourism officers are deployed on cruise ship days to guide visitors to approved excursions and provide assistance where needed.

The DoT, in partnership with the PLTA, is also rolling out hospitality and tourism transport training through the Tourist Transport Ambassador Program. Public transport providers are encouraged to participate as part of a collective effort to improve visitor experiences and showcase Vanuatu’s hospitality in 2026. Training dates are expected to be announced soon.

The Department further acknowledged the role of local social media influencers in promoting positive stories about the destination, helping visitors navigate activities and supporting broader government efforts to drive economic recovery.

“Tourism is a shared responsibility,” the DoT said, adding that the actions of a few should not undermine the professionalism and dedication of the many operators who provide safe and welcoming services every day.

The Department said it will continue working closely with all partners to ensure Port Vila remains a safe, enjoyable, and welcoming port of call for cruise ship visitors while supporting compliant operators and fostering a culture of respect, professionalism, and cooperation.

The PLTA was contacted for comment but has yet to provide a statement on the matter.