Cruising Notes
The Kingdom of Tonga - Vava'u Islands
Port Maurelle
Port Maurelle is the spot where the Spaniard, Maurell the first explorer
to see Vava'u, anchored his ship. It is a lovely and protected natural
anchorage.
Kapa
From this central location you can cruise to no less than forty recognised
anchorages, many of them within two hours sailing of the base. Just out
of Neiafu is the lovely island of Kapa with its Swallows Cave, similar
to the Blue Grotto in Capri, and a spectacular sight.
Nuapapu,
Hunga and Vaka'eitu
To the west are the islands of Nuapapu, Hunga and Vaka'eitu. Hunga's huge
lagoon, formed by the crater of an extinct volcano, can only be reached
through a 200 foot wide pass. Here a traditional Tongan village shares
the shoreline with the 'Island Style' Club Hunga Resort. Further along,
on the western coast of Nuapapu is the fascinating Mariner's Cave, an
underwater cavern which good swimmers will be able to visit. In Vaka'eitu
you will find a safe overnight anchorage.
Mananita
Mananita is surrounded by reefs - which provide some of the best snorkelling
in the area. Careful navigation through the reefs will be rewarded by
the discovery of perfect white, powdery beaches. A stroll inland will
take you into a luxuriant natural temple filled with the brilliant green
light provided by the large-leafed puko trees.
Kenutu
Kenutu is an idyllic lagoon for an overnight anchorage, with an attractive
beach, excellent diving for experienced divers on the reef and a walk
on the ocean side to visit the caverns and blowholes. While you are here,
the Berlin Bar is a great stopover. Throughout the cruising area, you
will find amazing diving and snorkelling, in crystal clear waters, with
brilliantly coloured coral and reef fish.
Mounu
A delightful small island surrounded by a sandy beach, Mounu is the South
Pacific island of your dreams. A new mini resort has been established
on the western end of the island, call ahead on the VHF and make your
reservation for a gourmet meal. Mounu makes a perfect add on to your sailing
holiday, why not book in for a day or two after your charter.
Nuku
A tiny island with a cosy anchorage alongside an idylic sandspit, Nuku
is possibly the most photographed island in the Kingdom of Tonga. A perfect
day stop for safe swimming and snorkelling for those beginners to gain
their confidence. Nuku becomes a favourite with all who visit Vava'u.
Ava
Adjacent to Nuku and Port Maurelle, Ava provides some amazing snorkelling
and diving, particularly along the western shoreline. The mid afternoon
sun highlights the natural colours of the coral and fishlife, the depth
dropping away to around 200 feet.
10 day charters - Typical Itinerary
Day 1 Vava'u to Kapa Island
Orientation, chart briefing and checkout of your yacht. Sail to Port Maurelle
on Kapa Island.
Day 2 Kapa Island to Fale
Vai
Snorkel the north side of Ava Island. Sail to Nuku and anchor off
Fale Vai.
Day 3 Fale Vai to Hunga
Sail out the Faihava Pass to Hunga, where the fishing is excellent
(with your own gear). Anchor in Hunga Lagoon.
Day 4 Hunga to Vaka'eitu
Enjoy a short sail to Foeata for snorkelling. Sail to Vakaíeitu
for the night.
Day 5 Day trip to Luahaipu
Sail south for a day trip to Luaa Fuleheu or Luahaipu, both beautiful
and uninhabited. Sail back to Vakaíeitu and snorkel the reef.
Day 6 Vaka'eitu to Hinakawea
Beach Sail to Euaiki and then on to Hinakawea Beach for a Polynesian feast
and traiditional Tongan dance.
Day 7 Hinakawea Beach to
Kenutu
Sail to remote Maninita for lunch and snorkelling. After lunch, head north
to Kenutu and anchor overnight.
Day 8 Kenutu to Taunga
Leave early for Fanua Tapu Pass. Anchor on the north side of Taunga
and snorkel the reefs of Tauta.
Day 9 Taunga to Olo'ua
Sail carefully through the reefs to visit Mafana and Olo'ua.
Day 10 Olo'ua to Kapa Island
Sail around Taunga for snorkelling between Ngau and Pau. Sail for Nuapapa
and Mariners Cave, then on to Swallows Cave on Kapa.
Final Morning Kapa Island to Neiafu
Return to Port of Refuge Harbour to check in with Moorings before noon. |
