I would like to thank Dave and the rest of the Ocean Blue team for helping to organise what proved to be a trip of a lifetime.
From the first call I made to Dave at Ocean Blue enquiring about a game fishing trip to Santo, Vanuatu, I could not of asked for a more helpful and knowledgeable consultant. The whole trip went very smoothly from start to finish. The staff at the amazing Aore resort were some of the friendliest we have ever encounted, and the snorkelling at the doorstep of our picturesque Beachfront Bungalow was simply breathtaking.
Our five full days big tackle game fishing aboard the ‘Southern Destiny’ were fantastic, with the highlight being catching my first ever Marlin!! We hooked another 3 Marlin over the 5 days but unfortunately all managed to throw the hooks while leaping from the water. We caught many Mahi Mahi over the five days, and they not only proved to be spectacular in launching from the water during the fight, but also proved to be magnificent on the dinner table after being prepared by the very talented chef from the Aore resort. We also caught quite a few yellowfin tuna, with the largest being approx 90 pounds in weight, and proving what a great sports fish they are with a 25 minute fight to the boat. Our Skipper Chris, and his two deckhands, Sandy and John were very helpful, professional and friendly, and ensured that our 5 days fishing were really enjoyable and memorable.
After landing my first ever Marlin on our trip to Santo, it would be safe to assume that this was the highlight of our trip. Well, I am pleased to report that although catching and releasing that amazing fish was something that I will never forget, asking my beautiful girlfriend of nearly 7 years to marry me while we stood in the crystal clear waters of Vanuatu as the sun set, and for her to say “Yes” was easily the highlight of our holiday and a very special moment in both our lives. Two catches of a lifetime in the one trip…I still can’t wipe the smile off my face!!
Matt O’Brien