Mystery Island – one of about 80 islands that make up Vanuatu – is a tiny island at the southern tip of the Republic of Vanuatu.  Vanuatu was previously ‘administered’ jointly by the French and the British (and known as New Hebrides) but became its own Republic in 1980 changing its name to Vanuatu – meaning “Our Land Forever”.  Its capital and economic center, Port Vila, sits on the island of Efate.  Unfortunately, Port Vila was hit by a 7.2 magnitude earthquake in December of 2024 severely damaging the city.  So – if you are cruising and Port Vila is a port of call, it is likely this stop will not be made as they are still recovering and rebuilding.  But, perhaps you will be lucky enough to make a stop at Mystery Island;-)

This tiny island is less than a mile long and a little more than a couple of hundred yards wide.  It can easily be walked around in less than an hour.  But, on that walk you will see some of the bluest water you have ever seen in an ocean or sea!

Yep – that is tiny Mystery Island!

Welcome to the island.

So – what’s the mystery?!?  Well, During WWII the US troops built a runway on the island to be used as a landing strip for their air force when the war in the South Pacific was going strong.  The air strip was impossible to see from the sea and the Japanese could not figure out where the planes were coming from.  Thus – it was a mystery!  This landing strip is still there, but since Mystery Island has no residents it is used for the nearby islands.  It basically runs the full length of the island!

Not sure what customs checks for here?!?

Prepare to take off.

After walking the runway one can visit the beach and admire the blue water, snorkel, visit with the locals from the adjacent islands who set up ‘shops’ for the tourists – or just plain relax – –

It takes about an hour to stroll around the island.

Beautiful, lush scenery.

Many trees like this one are decorated with local art.

Facilities are very basic.

E can’t resist climbing trees – –

– – and G just wants to Chill!

The cloud burst waited for us to get back to the ship.

A beautiful farewell sky.

This tiny island in the South Pacific can provide a wonderful, relaxing day.  Don’t pass it by the next time you are in the neighborhood!

E & G – relaxed and moving on.