After a 15‑month restoration and transformation, the Grand Hotel & Casino has officially reopened its doors – a milestone signaling renewed confidence in Vanuatu’s tourism trajectory for 2026 and beyond.
Overlooking Port Vila Harbour, the eight‑level landmark – originally built in 2003 – has long held a special place in the capital’s skyline. Today, it returns with a bold new vision: contemporary, confident and distinctly Pacific in spirit. Following its temporary closure after the December 2024 earthquake, the Grand has been comprehensively strengthened and reimagined, with the entire team was retained throughout the redevelopment – a clear commitment to both people and place.
Led by Melbourne‑based owners Zagame Corporation, the transformation blends modern comfort, elevated dining and vibrant social spaces while honouring the hotel’s legacy as Vanuatu’s most recognisable waterfront destination.
“This is more than a venue,” said Robert A Zagame, Director of Zagame Corporation. “The Grand represents our future vision in the Pacific. Grounded in timeless values, delivered with modern execution, and shaped by our deep belief in Vanuatu’s future.”
Mark Stanford, Chief Operating Officer of the Grand Hotel & Casino, said the reopening marks a proud moment for the team and the community.
“Every part of this journey has been driven by resilience and optimism,” he said. “Retaining our full team throughout the redevelopment was non‑negotiable. They are the heart of the Grand. We’re thrilled to welcome guests back to a hotel that feels familiar yet completely renewed, and to play our part in Port Vila’s continued growth.”
Vanuatu Tourism Office CEO, Adela Issachar Aru, said the organisation is delighted to see the property re-open and welcome guests again as visitation to the destination continues to grow post-earthquake.
“The reopening of the Grand Hotel Casino marks an important moment in Vanuatu’s ongoing recovery. As one of Port Vila’s most recognisable waterfront properties, its return strengthens the destination’s capacity and reflects the continued progress of our tourism sector. The Grand has long been a cornerstone of our offering to holidaymakers, a place where visitors can experience the warmth and hospitality Vanuatu is known for. Its revival shows that Vanuatu is open, ready and excited to welcome more Australian travellers.”
The 74‑room hotel’s transformation has been delivered in collaboration with Lukas Design, a boutique Australian interior architecture studio, and Vancorp Construction, whose three decades of experience across Australia and the Pacific ensured a meticulous, future‑focused restoration.
The result is a refined aesthetic that feels both international and unmistakably Vanuatu. A vibrant coral‑toned exterior now redefines the waterfront silhouette, while interiors embrace natural textures, warm architectural detailing and contemporary finishes that elevate without being overwhelming. Public spaces have been opened and softened to enhance light and flow, with refreshed lobby, dining and pool areas designed to encourage ease, connection and a sense of arrival.
Guest rooms and suites feature new furnishings, luxurious European marble ensuites, improved lighting, generous workspaces and modern technology including 55”–65” HD televisions with Chromecast. Panorama Rooms and Level Six suites offer curated minibars, coffee pod machines, yoga mats, luxury amenities including bath salts, and private balconies capturing harbour sunsets.
The hotel also features a swimming pool, on‑site day spa and sauna, two new guest elevators, revitalised public areas and upgraded conference facilities with 86” UHD displays, reinforcing its positioning across business, leisure and lifestyle travel.
Guests have access to a revitalised, world‑class casino with upgraded gaming experiences within the hotel complex.
Dining, Completely Reimagined
Perhaps the most dramatic transformation lies within the 90‑seat harbourside restaurant, the Grand Dining Room, where the culinary program has been entirely reconceived from breakfast through to late‑night service.
Under the leadership of Melbourne‑based Zagame Group Executive Chef Chris Bonello, supported and delivered on‑site at the hotel by Head Chef Richard Layson, the hotel introduces Soul, Salt & Earth – an elevated yet approachable celebration of Vanuatu’s ocean, land and people. Anchored in pristine South Pacific seafood and locally grown produce, the philosophy champions seasonality, sustainability and elegant simplicity. The Grand now offers what is set to become Port Vila’s most distinctive breakfast experience, alongside refined lunch and dinner menus designed for couples, corporate travellers and families alike.
The hotel has also revitalised its iconic Sunday Brunch – long considered a social cornerstone in Port Vila – bringing renewed energy, theatre and flavour to the tradition.In a significant international first, the Grand is the first venue outside Australia to serve Zagame Bros Coffee Co. The premium Melbourne‑born coffee brand now greets guests via a mobile espresso cart within the dining space, adding theatre, efficiency and global‑standard service to the Port Vila market.
On the pool deck level, the Cabana Pool Bar & Lounge offers relaxed drinks and dining with a curated cocktail menu and barefoot, easygoing atmosphere.
Meetings, Events & Business Travel
For corporate and group travellers, the Grand reasserts itself as Port Vila’s leading waterfront meetings address. Catering for conferences of up to 80 delegates and events for up to 120 guests, the hotel offers five flexible spaces, modern AV technology, high‑speed Wi‑Fi and professional on‑site support.
Its central CBD location just 15 minutes from Bauerfield International Airport ensures seamless access for regional and international business travel.
A Positive Milestone for the Destination
Mark Stanford says the reopening of the Grand Hotel & Casino represents not only a significant investment, but belief in the broader destination’s resilience and appeal. “For Australian and New Zealand travellers, the new Grand offers a refreshed reason to return – or to discover Port Vila anew – with a hospitality experience that balances warmth, sophistication and genuine island character.”
