Vanuatu Maritime Safety: Vanuatu has officially ended the search for the MV Matui ferry disaster, with 39 people now feared dead after the Sept 11 sinking between Santo and Ambae; survivors and bodies were found last weekend, and authorities say criminal complaints have been filed over alleged breaches including overloading and lack of passenger authorisation. Pacific Travel Policy: Australia has released the full list of countries eligible for the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, including Vanuatu, which could shape regional visitor-to-worker pathways and future tourism demand. Cruise & Resort Watch: Royal Caribbean is reportedly in talks to buy a stake in Sandals Resorts International, a move that could reshape Caribbean all-inclusive vacation packages—relevant for Vanuatu’s cruise and land-based tourism competition. Regional Tourism Development: The Pacific Tourism Organisation has launched a Pacific Tourism Yachting Strategy 2026–2030, aiming to grow high-value yachting while improving regulation and community benefits across Pacific ports. Vanuatu Weather Rules: Vanuatu is considering vessel-specific weather guidance, linking marine warnings to which boats can operate—an effort to prevent repeats of recent maritime tragedies. North Pacific Trade Push: PTI Australia has appointed Ben Urquhart as Senior North Pacific tourism advisor to help make diving, fishing and heritage offerings easier to package and sell in Australia, including work with Vanuatu’s market experience.