Maskelyne Islands

The Maskelyne Islands are a chain of small islands in Malampa Province of Vanuatu, situated off the southeastern coast of Malekula. The islands host traditional Melanesian villages and are known regionally for fishing and nearshore marine resources.

The group is modest in scale and visited primarily by local boats; snorkeling, reef fishing and village visits are typical activities. Infrastructure is limited and travel is commonly arranged through local operators or inter-island transport.

The Maskelyne Islands lie close to Malekula in Malampa Province, forming part of Vanuatu’s dispersed island geography in the central Pacific.

• Local communities: Small, inhabited island clusters with local communities that rely on fishing and traditional lifeways; access is by local boat services.

Reachable by local boat from larger islands such as Malekula or Ambrym. Schedules are informal; coordinate with provincial transport operators or local hosts.

• Travel between the Maskelyne islands by small local boat; schedules are informal and weather-dependent.
• Bring cash and basic supplies; services are minimal on the outer islets.
• Explore with a local guide who can introduce kastom customs and the best snorkeling spots.