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TONGA
CRUISING NOTES
From the base in Neiafu you can cruise
to no less than 40 recognised anchorages, many within 2 hours sailing of the base. Just
out of Neiafu is the lovely Kapa Island with its Swallow's Cave- a spectacular sight.
To the west is the island of Hunga, with a
huge lagoon formed by the crater of an extinct volcano, its traditional Tongan village and
neighbouring 'Island style' resort. Further along, on the western coast of N'uapapu 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 night time anchorage.
Throughout the cruising area you will find
amazing diving and snorkelling in crystal clear waters with brilliantly coloured coral and
reef fish.
 VAVAU CRUISING
NOTES:
Port Maurelle
Port Maurelle is the spot where the Spaniard, Maurelle, 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 N'uapapu 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 idyllic sands pit, 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 fish life, the depth dropping away to around 200 feet.
Suggested Itinerary: 10 Days
Day 1 Join your yacht at Neiafu
Day 2 Depart Base for Hunga Island - 11nms
Day 3 Hunga Island - Vaka'eitu - 8 nms
Day 4 Vaka'eitu - Mounu - Lisa Beach - 8nms
Day 5 Lisa Beach - Kenutu - 5nms
Day 6 Kenutu - Tapana - 6nms
Day 7 Tapana - Eueiki - Taunga - 6nms
Day 8 Taunga - Sisia - Matamaka - 5nms
Day 9 Matamaka - Nuku - Port Maurelle - 4.5nms
Day 10 Port Maurelle - Lotuma - Neiafu - 6nms
Dining Ashore:
Tongan beach feasts are regular features at the local resorts, where the food is
cooked in the traditional fashion, underground. There are also a number of island beach
bars and restaurants set in magical anchorages. We recommend you try the crayfish and
other deep sea specialties.
For
Bareboat yacht charters or private yachts with skipper and cook
click here
 No sailing experience, but you would like to
explore Tonga by sea? No problem! Sail the Islands of Tonga from as little as A$212/US$185 per person per
day, including your own private yacht, skipper, cook, and
all meals on board! Click
here for more details.
This vessel is equipped with a
dive compressor, BCD jackets, regulators, tanks & weights. The yacht
is based at Tongatapu, however depending on how long you want to
cruise, your charter can also include the islands of Haapai. During
the winter months from July to October you can watch whales between
the Haapai Group & Eua Island.
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This page was last updated:
Saturday, 19 January 2008 14:48
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