VAVA'U BOATYARD 🇹🇴 TONGA SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE
VAVA’U BOATYARD 🇹🇴 TONGA SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE
18° 38.625′ S 173° 59.7483′ W
The island groups of Tonga are are some of the most beautiful in the world. But the lack of secure hurricane/cyclone storage has always meant there was that deadline, when cruisers have to leave this paradise far too soon and seek shelter in Fiji or New Zealand. The BoatYard is a brand new yacht haulage and hard stand facility in Vava’u, the first in Tonga, and has turned Tonga into a safe year-round cruising destination!
We can offer your members a 10% discount on cyclone season storage and long time hardstand storage.
Cheers,
JOE
CONTACT The Boatyard Vava’u
+6768816854
+6768816846
info@boatyardvavau.com
27th of September 2022
All visiting yachts will need to submit an Advance Notice of Arrivals form to info@customs.gov.to at least 24 hours prior to arrival.
The island groups of Tonga are are some of the most beautiful in the world. But the lack of secure hurricane/cyclone storage has always meant there was that deadline, when cruisers have to leave this paradise far too soon and seek shelter in Fiji or New Zealand. The BoatYard is a brand new yacht haulage and hard stand facility in Vava’u, the first in Tonga, and has turned Tonga into a safe year-round cruising destination!
GOOD NAUTICAL SAFE APPROACH VAVA’U BOAT YARD
TONGA PORT GUIDE
The Vava’u Island group in the Kingdom of Tonga is a spectacular tropical island paradise in the Pacific Ocean. It has a year-round climate suitable for swimming, snorkelling, diving and sailing. Some islands are ringed by white sand beaches while others have tropical forests, sea-level caves, and dramatic limestone cliffs with breath-taking vistas.
DOWNLOAD THE 2023 TONGA PORT GUIDE >>
Services available from Port Officer Greg:
c/- Café Tropicana Fatafehi Rd (or Private Bag 34 for Postal Service) Neiafu Vava’u Kingdom of Tonga +676 71322 tropicana@vavau.to |
| Port officer’s name: Greg Just
Best way to contact: Cellphone PO contact information: Email: greg@vavau.to Twitter: @tongamazingweb Instagram: tongamazingcom Linkedin: tongamazingcom Viber: +6768812347 Phone +676 71322 (Café Tropicana) Mobile: +676 8812347 or +676 7512347 VHF Ch: 26 Home Address: Mt Talau Citizen: NZ/UK/Tonga Divemaster IT Manager Analyst/IT/Fin/Proj Yachtie Master Drycleaner (nz) Website: www.vavau.to/Tropicana Agent www.tongasuperyachts.com For Sale https://cafetropicana.company.site/ |
Menu https://cafetropicanavavau.business.site/
Tourism portals
Services available within walking distance:
Superyacht Agencies Yachthelppacific.com - David Hunt/ Hakula Lodge Super Yacht Services Tonga – Derek Leonard/Julie Goss Tongasuperyachts.com - Cafe Tropicana Slipways Fishing slipway for smaller monohulls Pafilios slipway for multihulls The Boatyard Vava’u - Mono and multihulls on hard storage. www.theboatyardvavau.com Water Town supply water available at Moorings/Riki Tiki by appointment please Rain water from Café Tropicana Rain water showers at Café Tropicana Fuel Fuel available at Moorings or fuel stations. Duty free fuel at check-out wharf Min 200litres 70972. Pacific Fuels booked 24-48 hours prior to departure. See page 5 for info • Duty Free Alcohol Leiola Duty Free +676 70148 next to Cafe Tropicana, 24 hours prior to departure pay for order, Leiola will deliver to Customs, you show receipt to Customs at Wharf and check off items, customs will take to your yacht. • Trades - Rigging/Skipper. See Mary at Café Tropicana - Welding/Fabrication. Friendly Island Fabrication Ken 8437123 friendlyislandfabrication@gmail.com - Vava’u Shipwrights – The Boatyard Vava’u +8816854
|
| Local cruising NET:
• VHF Cruisers Net VHF Channel 26 8.30am each morning except Sunday. Alternative VHF 06 https://www.facebook.com/vavaucruisersnet
VHF Cruisers Net Order of service Emergency/priority traffic Check-ins Arrivals and departures Weather Buy/sell/trade Crew available/wanted Local special events Anything else Brief adverts from local business Local Charts and Chartlets: • Sailingbirds Guide to Vava’u/Ha’apai sold at Café Tropicana • www.vavau.to/marineguide free pdf for all of Tonga. Created by Cafe Tropicana • NZ822 / NZ82 / NZ14605 / NZ14602/ 2691 Fiji A0 charts and laminated A3 Chartlets – sold at Café Tropicana • www.vavau.to/weather all the weather in one spot! • GigGuide/Calendar with summary of local regulations. The Vaa’u Blue Water Festival is late September, other local events are on the calendar. www.vavau.to/gig guide 2023.pdf VHF Channels: • 06 Backup channel for VHF Net • 09 Beluga dive/Beluga moorings • 11 Te Pana Island • 13 Max Taxi • 16 Hailing ONLY – Mayday/Pan Pan etc. • 26 Repeater channel – VHF Net and used for long range communication, please be considerate, if you are talking to vessels that are close to you. Be aware this channel is monitored by Customs, Police, Governor and Tourism! • 71 Game Fishing • 72 Moorings/Sunsail calling • 73 Moorings/Sunsail working • 74 Whale watching operators • 77 Mounu Island • Please be considerate and discrete on all VHF channels, especially the above and move to a non-working channel as soon as practical… 08, 14, 17, 68 Common chat channels, be aware nosy people may follow you and listen in…. Other useful information specific to this area: • SPEED limit in the harbour 5 knot – and/or no WAKE. Be aware of wake for other yachts, swimmers, divers, fisherman turtles, whales! By order Marine and Ports Harbourmaster. • Please consider the environment and follow MARPOL rules and go 12 nautical miles to dump septic waste. • Please walk on the pavement/sidewalk – NOT the road, this is a LEFT side driving country, the roads, drivers and cars are not very good. If no sidewalk walk on the right side of the road (against traffic so you can see vehicles) • Cover and clean any open wounds, flies carry staph bacteria. Stay out of the sea, especially the first 50 metres from shore. |
Beware of Alofi a tall Tongan hawker – flag maker/bread/ feasts etc. Rows a dinghy and rides a bike. Report any problems to the Police, or Ministry of Tourism. He does homemade flags from tshirt
material, charges for everything he does and frequently exaggerates about services he offers. Cruises through town on a bicycle to show
| you his guest book from other cruisers, AVOID talking to him...
• Special Management Areas/Fish Habitat Reserve SMA/FHR are now in place, the legislation is designed to protect the breeding areas and environment. Fees to anchor, snorkel and dive can be levied by the village whose waters are protected. Officers carry ID, give receipts etc. An old sma/fhr map is available https://vavau.to/Tonga_SMA-flier.pdf it is being updated soon. • Whale watching regulations 2013 1.Unless you are in a licenced whale watching or whale swimming vessel, you are not allowed to approach any whale closer than 300m 2. Swimming with whales is prohibited unless you are on a licenced vessel and in the water with a certified guide. 3. If a whale surfaces near you, you should change the course of your vessel, in a safe manner, and move 300m from the whales at no-wake speed. 4. Kayaking with humpback whales is prohibited unless the kayak is launched from a licenced vessel. 5. No jet Skis are allowed within 2km of any whale. First time offence is a fine of between $1,000 and $5,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 18 months Repeat offence is a fine of between $1000 and $10000 and/or imprisonment of upto 3 years. https://vavau.to/TongaWhaleWatchingandSwimmingRegulations2013.pdf • Do not feed street dogs, they might bite the next person walking by with food who does not feed them….imagine if it is child… Please report dog bites to the Police Non-Government Organisations/Charities/Volunteering: • VVMRA Vava’u Volunteer Marine Response Association Monitors VHF 26/16 24 x 7, responds to local and EPIRB (via RCC NZ), works with Tonga police, and locals/yachts based in Vava’u for emergency Response www.vvmra.org VHF 16/26 “Vava’u Radio” emergency, not general enquiries Cell +8465645 Brian P O Box 43 Neiafu, Vava’u, Kingdom of Tonga • VEPA Vava’u Environmental Protection Association. An environmental NGO based in Vava’u. Mangrove, education, turtle and other conservation. Located next to the Bookshop in the middle of town. www.vavauenvironment.org Accepting volunteers https://vavauenvironment.org/volunteer/ • Vava’u Public Library The first public library in Tonga and a self-funded NGO. Accepting volunteers for english story reading Saturday morning and English childrens books Membership $5 a year https://www.facebook.com/groups/225935794136987 • VCT/VBWS Vava’u Community Trust. Youth NGO Trust. Employment, education. Owns Vava’u Blue Water School (Sailing and swimming school), Accepting volunteers to repair our training vessel SY Lobo and other projects https://www.facebook.com/vavaucommunitytrust • Host A Vet Partners with Vets to conduct Clinics/Surgeries/ Neutering, free medicines etc. See The Yacht Shop for donations etc https://www.facebook.com/hostavet • Vava’u Breast Cancer Committee. Based in Vava’u working solely to assist Vava’uan women with breast cancer. Transport, treatment and accommodation https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070118191741 |
Pens, paper, drawing pencils etc,Toothpaste/Tooth brushes, English childrens books, reading glasses. Accepted and distributed by Café Tropicana, or we can make suggestions if you wish to drop them off yourselves. We can also suggest places to Volunteer your time…
Must See and do in VAVA’U:
- Sunday Tongan Feast
- Walk up Mt Talau National Park; magnificent views from lookout platforms
- Swallows and Mariners cave tour
- Kava circle at Fire station or any village
- Sunday church service 10am for amazing singing at Catholic Cathedral, English service at City Impact Church in Toula
- Talau Cemetery – Palangi Cemetery
- Pouonu Park – birth place of Vava’u Code
- Kilikilitefua Wall (Makave) the old census system
- Catholic Cathedral
- Beaches (Eneio Private), Keitahi (Private), Talihau Beach, Ano Beach, Holeva Beach
- Toula cemetery and Veimumuni Caves
- ‘Utula’aina (Holonga), ‘Esi ‘o Salota (Holonga), Hila Ki Tapana/I ‘o
Mata’aho (Leimatua), Tufutele Pool (Mataika), Rock Island Beach
(Holeva), Vaipua, Ngofe-Reed fields (Tu’anuku), Mo’ungalafa
(Tu’anuku), Longamapu. Lolo ‘a Halavalu (Neiafu), Fa ko Fiem’a
(Vai ko lelea) (Neiafu), Sia ‘o Kafoa (Taoa), ‘Api ‘o Maka (Taoa),
Loto ‘a afitu (Makave), Mapu ‘a Tonga (Makave), Nga ‘unoho
(Talihau), ‘Out Mala (Talihau), ‘Otualea (Ha’alaufuli), To ‘anga’ofa
(Utui) www.vavau.to or www.tongatourism.travel for other tourist information
Map of Vava’u harbour with description:
International Clearance Berthing Note:
Pacific Fuels – Petrol/diesel:
Duty free is available once the vessel is cleared out from the final port. It can be shared to meet minimums. Duty free is a significant saving, Fiji does not do duty free fuel. Fuel bunker is closed for trucks if a bunker boat is in the harbour. Appointment times are indicative only. Duty free is about 30% cheaper than the retail price at the pump (15% CT/15% Duty).
Vava’u
Phone: 70972 NO VHF
Email: tuiaki.kauvaka@p.energy
Website: www.p.energy
Hours 9am to 4.30pm M to F
GPS coordinates: at Wharf 18°39'6.97"S 173°59'9.03"W
OFFICE Toula fuel Bunker 18°40'36.58"S 173°59'8.61"W
Vava’u Minimum 24-48 hours’ notice. Cash Only. Duty free 200litres Min but boats can share. Duty free generally delivered after 10am to the wharf and AFTER customs have given clearance papers. MUST be last Tongan port. Tanker refills petrol stations Monday morning and Friday afternoon. Nuku’alofa
Phone: 22511 22397 VHF Ch: None
Email: ifalemi.tauheluhelumau@p.energy
Website: www.p.energy
Tongatapu Minimum 24 hours’ notice. Cash Only. Duty free 1000litres Min but boats can share. Duty free generally delivered after 10am to the wharf and AFTER customs have given clearance papers. MUST be last Tongan port.
Ha’apai no duty free fuel
Niuatoputapu no duty free fuel
Homegas/Tongagas – Butane:
Gas bunker is closed for refilling bottles if a Gas bunker vessel is in the harbour.
Vava’u
Phone: 70319 VHF: NONE
Email: NONE
GPS coordinates: 18°40'37.44"S 173°59'8.27"W
Location: Toula fuel Bunker
Vava’u Cafe Tropicana charges $5 a kg and a $5 surcharge – generally next day if not weekly.
Nuku’alofa
Phone: 21390 VHF Ch: None
GPS coordinates: 21° 8'33.09"S 175°10'33.57"W
Location Ma’ufanga Bunker
Website: www.homegas.to
DOES not have all adaptors – NO CAMPINGAZ fittings!!
Vava’u Taxi from town is $5 each way. Or bring in to Café Tropicana Hours 9am to 4.30pm M to Sa
🇹🇴 TONGA 🏝 170
Sailing in Tonga is a unique adventure where yachts can explore vibrant reefs, welcoming islands, and a rich cultural vibe that appeals to both seasoned and new cruisers. Tonga consists of four main island groups: Tongatapu, Ha’apai, Vava’u, and the Niuas, each offering its own slice of paradise.
- Tongatapu: This is the southernmost group and where you’ll find Nuku’alofa, Tonga’s capital. It’s often the first stop for boats coming from Fiji, offering resources, provisioning, and a rich introduction to Tongan culture. While Tongatapu may be more developed, it retains a relaxed charm, with local markets, friendly people, and an accessible cruising vibe.
- Ha’apai: This is an unspoiled region with over 60 islands, known for its clear waters, coral reefs, and tranquil anchorages. Cruisers are drawn here for its remoteness and simplicity, with fewer tourists and fewer modern amenities. The reefs here can be challenging, but the reward is pristine beauty and a sense of solitude.
- Vava’u: A favorite among cruisers, Vava’u is renowned for its incredible natural harbors and its organized yacht services. The deep bays, hidden coves, and numerous anchorages make this a sailor’s paradise. The Vava’u group is also famous for humpback whale sightings, particularly between July and October. The main town, Neiafu, has a lively social scene, with a community of sailors, expats, and locals who contribute to its warm and festive vibe.
- The Niuas: These islands are the northernmost and least accessible, but those who venture here are rewarded with a truly off-the-beaten-path experience. Rugged and isolated, the Niuas are for adventurers seeking untouched beauty and complete immersion in traditional Tongan life.
Reefs and Navigation
Tonga’s waters are filled with coral reefs, demanding a good knowledge of navigation and careful planning, especially in the Ha’apai group where the reefs are less charted. Many anchorages are well-marked, but it’s essential to navigate with caution. These reefs are also home to colorful marine life, making snorkeling and diving exceptional.
Vibe and Community
The vibe in Tonga is laid-back, communal, and deeply rooted in respect for tradition. Sailing here often feels like joining an extended family. Cruisers quickly become part of the Tongan rhythm, attending local feasts, kava ceremonies, and Sunday church gatherings. The marine facilities vary by island group, with Vava’u being the best equipped, but most cruisers embrace the simplicity, enjoying life on the water among the islands’ unmatched natural beauty.
Overall
Tonga combines adventure, beauty, and culture, making it one of the Pacific’s hidden gems for sailing and cruising.
MARINAS
Tonga offers a variety of facilities catering to the needs of sailors and cruisers, particularly in the Vava’u island group, which is renowned for its excellent sailing conditions and services.
Vava’u:
- The BoatYard: Located in Neiafu, The BoatYard is Tonga’s first professionally operated yacht haulage and hard stand facility. It provides services such as woodwork, fiberglass repair, metal fabrication, mechanical work, sail and canvas repair, refrigeration, electrical repair, and chandlery. The facility is situated in a former quarry, offering protection on three sides and access to the water via a gently sloping slipway.
- The Moorings and Sunsail: Also based in Neiafu, these companies are part of the largest bareboat and skippered charter operations globally. They offer a fleet of yachts ranging from 30 to 60 feet, including luxury catamarans. Their base features the Mango Cafe, a waterfront restaurant, enhancing the overall experience for sailors.
Tongatapu:
- Ports Authority Tonga: While not a marina, the Ports Authority manages the main ports in Tongatapu, including Queen Salote Wharf and Vuna Wharf. These facilities provide essential services for vessels docking in the capital, Nuku’alofa.
General Information:
Sailors planning to visit Tonga should be aware of the country’s regulations and services:
- Advance Notice of Arrival: All visiting yachts are required to submit an Advance Notice of Arrival form to Tonga Customs at least 24 hours prior to arrival. Failure to do so may result in fines or delayed clearance.
- Marine and Ports Division: The Marine and Ports Division of the Ministry of Infrastructure oversees the strategic development of Tonga’s maritime industry, ensuring a safe and efficient environment for maritime activities.
While Tonga’s marina infrastructure is developing, the existing facilities, particularly in Vava’u, provide essential services for cruisers exploring this beautiful Pacific nation.
WEATHER
Swell
PILOT CHARTS
TONGA Pilot Charts provide historic points and aggregated information of wind flows, air and ocean temperatures, wave heights, rain, barometric weight, and climate conditions at various seasons. This data was acquired from oceanographic and meteorologic perceptions over hundreds of years starting in the late eighteenth century. These diagrams are planned to help mariners choose routes around and approaching Cuba with respect to the normal climate and sea conditions using prevailing seasonal wind information.
PORTS OF ENTRY
Tonga has designated several ports of entry to facilitate international maritime arrivals. These ports are equipped to handle customs and immigration procedures for vessels entering the country. The primary ports of entry in Tonga are:
- Nuku’alofa (Tongatapu): The capital city, Nuku’alofa, serves as a major port of entry, with facilities at Faua Wharf and Queen Salote Wharf.
- Neiafu (Vava’u): Located in the Vava’u island group, Neiafu’s Halaevalu Wharf is a key entry point for vessels, especially popular among cruising yachts.
- Pangai (Ha’apai): In the Ha’apai group, Taufa’ahau Wharf in Pangai serves as the designated port of entry.
- Falehau (Niuatoputapu): This port caters to vessels arriving in the Niuatoputapu region.
- Futu (Niuafo’ou): Serving the Niuafo’ou area, Futu is another recognized port of entry.
Vessels planning to enter Tonga are required to submit an Advance Notice of Arrival to Tonga Customs at least 24 hours prior to their estimated time of arrival. This procedure ensures that customs and immigration officials are prepared to process incoming vessels efficiently.
It’s important to note that upon arrival, vessels must fly the yellow quarantine flag and await clearance from health, agriculture, immigration, and customs officials before disembarking or commencing any activities.
For the most current information on entry procedures and requirements, it’s advisable to consult the official website of Tonga’s Ministry of Revenue and Customs or contact the relevant authorities directly.
DOCUMENTS
ENTRY EXIT REQUIREMENTS
| DOCUMENTATION | |||||
| Passport | Valid for at least _ months; requires one blank page | ||||
| Boat Documentation | Coast Guard Doc (Original) | ||||
| Insurance | |||||
| Crewlist | Required at checkin/out | ||||
| Zarpe | Required at checkin/out | ||||
| Fishing License | |||||
| Official Procedures | |||||
| Official Country Visa | |||||
| Immigration Visa | |||||
| Required Permits | |||||
| Upon Arrival Visit: | Immigration; Customs; Port Captain/Authority | ||||
| Upon Departure Visit: | Immigration; Customs; Port Captain | ||||
| Total Entry & Exit Fees: | |||||
| Notes: | |||||
| Recommended Agent: |
|
CHARTS
TONGA VAVA’U PORT GUIDE 2023 PORT GUIDE PDF
ADDITIONAL CHARTS
- 8225 Neiafu Harbour
- 8257 Approaches to Nuku’alofa Harbour
MUST SEE
-
1. Swim with Humpback Whales (Vava’u)
- Location: 18°39.4’S 173°58.0’W
- Best Time: July to October
- Tonga is one of the few places in the world where you can swim with migrating humpback whales in their natural habitat.
2. Anahulu Cave (Tongatapu)
- Location: 21°04.6’S 175°10.2’W
- Best Time: Dry season (May to November)
- This limestone cave features a freshwater pool and dramatic stalactite formations, offering an enchanting underground swimming experience.
3. Mapu’a ‘a Vaea Blowholes (Tongatapu)
- Location: 21°09.1’S 175°18.2’W
- Best Time: Year-round
- Known as the “Chief’s Whistles,” these blowholes stretch along the coastline, creating impressive water spouts as waves crash into the reef.
4. Royal Palace (Nuku’alofa, Tongatapu)
- Location: 21°08.8’S 175°12.2’W
- Best Time: Year-round
- The Royal Palace is a symbol of Tonga’s monarchy, and while it’s not open to the public, it’s a fascinating landmark.
5. Ha’amonga ‘a Maui Trilithon (Tongatapu)
- Location: 21°06.7’S 175°06.7’W
- Best Time: Year-round
- Often called the “Stonehenge of the Pacific,” this ancient stone archway is believed to be a gateway or an astronomical tool built in the 13th century.
6. Ene’io Botanical Garden (Vava’u)
- Location: 18°39.9’S 173°58.3’W
- Best Time: Year-round
- This lush garden features a unique collection of tropical flora and offers tours that include tasting traditional Tongan dishes.
7. Fangatave Beach (Eua)
- Location: 21°23.1’S 174°55.7’W
- Best Time: Year-round
- Eua’s secluded Fangatave Beach is surrounded by cliffs and limestone caves, offering some of the island’s best hiking and swimming.
8. Talamahu Market (Nuku’alofa, Tongatapu)
- Location: 21°08.5’S 175°12.0’W
- Best Time: Weekends
- This bustling market is filled with local produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs, giving visitors a taste of Tongan daily life.
9. Pangaimotu Island (Near Nuku’alofa)
- Location: 21°07.9’S 175°11.5’W
- Best Time: Year-round
- Just a short boat ride from Nuku’alofa, Pangaimotu offers beautiful beaches, a shipwreck for snorkeling, and a laid-back vibe.
10. Swallow’s Cave (Vava’u)
- Location: 18°38.8’S 173°59.7’W
- Best Time: Year-round
- This famous cave is ideal for snorkeling and diving, with incredible lighting that makes for stunning underwater photography.
11. Mt. Talau National Park (Vava’u)
- Location: 18°39.2’S 173°59.0’W
- Best Time: Year-round
- A short hike up Mt. Talau offers panoramic views of Neiafu and the surrounding islands in the Vava’u group.
12. Hufangalupe Natural Land Bridge (Tongatapu)
- Location: 21°10.6’S 175°10.6’W
- Best Time: Year-round
- This natural bridge is carved by the ocean and provides dramatic coastal views and scenic cliffs.
13. Va’vau’s Port of Refuge (Vava’u)
- Location: 18°39.8’S 173°58.6’W
- Best Time: Year-round
- Known as one of the best natural harbors in the world, the Port of Refuge is a hub for sailors, offering safe anchorage and yacht services.
14. ‘Eua National Park (Eua)
- Location: 21°23.3’S 174°56.3’W
- Best Time: Year-round
- This park has rugged hiking trails, lush forests, and views of cliffs and waterfalls, perfect for nature lovers.
15. Liku’alofa Beach Resort (Tongatapu)
- Location: 21°07.4’S 175°19.4’W
- Best Time: Year-round
- Known for traditional feasts and cultural performances, this resort offers a taste of Tongan hospitality and relaxation by the beach.
16. Uoleva Island (Ha’apai)
- Location: 19°48.9’S 174°22.0’W
- Best Time: Year-round
- A remote island with beautiful beaches, Uoleva offers tranquil surroundings ideal for camping, snorkeling, and peaceful retreats.
17. Matafonua Lodge (Ha’apai)
- Location: 19°50.1’S 174°21.6’W
- Best Time: Year-round
- Located on the tip of Foa Island, Matafonua offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, with snorkeling, whale-watching, and beach huts.
18. Kolovai (Tongatapu)
- Location: 21°08.3’S 175°15.6’W
- Best Time: Year-round
- Kolovai is known for its colony of flying foxes (fruit bats), which are considered sacred in Tongan culture. Watching them soar over the treetops is a unique experience.
REPAIRS AND SERVICE PROVIDERS
Tonga offers a variety of facilities catering to the needs of sailors and cruisers, particularly in the Vava’u island group, which is renowned for its excellent sailing conditions and services.
Vava’u:
- The BoatYard: Located in Neiafu, The BoatYard is Tonga’s first professionally operated yacht haulage and hard stand facility. It provides services such as woodwork, fiberglass repair, metal fabrication, mechanical work, sail and canvas repair, refrigeration, electrical repair, and chandlery. The facility is situated in a former quarry, offering protection on three sides and access to the water via a gently sloping slipway.
- The Moorings and Sunsail: Also based in Neiafu, these companies are part of the largest bareboat and skippered charter operations globally. They offer a fleet of yachts ranging from 30 to 60 feet, including luxury catamarans. Their base features the Mango Cafe, a waterfront restaurant, enhancing the overall experience for sailors.
Tongatapu:
- Ports Authority Tonga: While not a marina, the Ports Authority manages the main ports in Tongatapu, including Queen Salote Wharf and Vuna Wharf. These facilities provide essential services for vessels docking in the capital, Nuku’alofa.
General Information:
Sailors planning to visit Tonga should be aware of the country’s regulations and services:
- Advance Notice of Arrival: All visiting yachts are required to submit an Advance Notice of Arrival form to Tonga Customs at least 24 hours prior to arrival. Failure to do so may result in fines or delayed clearance.
- Marine and Ports Division: The Marine and Ports Division of the Ministry of Infrastructure oversees the strategic development of Tonga’s maritime industry, ensuring a safe and efficient environment for maritime activities.
While Tonga’s marina infrastructure is developing, the existing facilities, particularly in Vava’u, provide essential services for cruisers exploring this beautiful Pacific nation.
EMERGENCIES AND SAR INFO
Tonga – 2 Search & Rescue Contacts
-
ARCC Fua’amotu International Airport
Type: ARCC, Country:
SRR:
Tel: 676 35393Telephone676 35393
Email
Fax676 35395
Websitehttp://
INMARSAT
Telex
Location-21.25, -175.1333313
Notes Updated ANM 05/10
SAR Contact Information Incorrect?Submit A Change Request
-
RCC Tonga Defence Services (TDS)
Type: MRCC, Country:
SRR:
Tel: 676 23099Telephone676 23099
Email
Fax676 23934
Websitehttp://
INMARSAT
Telex
Location-21.13330078, -175.1999969
Notes Cospas-Sarsat SPOC. TEL: 676 23119 FAX: 676 23190
The Vava’u Island group in the Kingdom of Tonga is a spectacular tropical island paradise in the Pacific Ocean. It has a year-round climate suitable for swimming, snorkelling, diving and sailing. Some islands are ringed by white sand beaches while others have tropical forests, sea-level caves, and dramatic limestone cliffs with breath-taking vistas.
DOWNLOAD THE 2023 TONGA PORT GUIDE >>
Services available from Port Officer Greg:
c/- Café Tropicana Fatafehi Rd (or Private Bag 34 for Postal Service) Neiafu Vava’u Kingdom of Tonga +676 71322 tropicana@vavau.to |
| Port officer’s name: Greg Just
Best way to contact: Cellphone PO contact information: Email: greg@vavau.to Twitter: @tongamazingweb Instagram: tongamazingcom Linkedin: tongamazingcom Viber: +6768812347 Phone +676 71322 (Café Tropicana) Mobile: +676 8812347 or +676 7512347 VHF Ch: 26 Home Address: Mt Talau Citizen: NZ/UK/Tonga Divemaster IT Manager Analyst/IT/Fin/Proj Yachtie Master Drycleaner (nz) Website: www.vavau.to/Tropicana Agent www.tongasuperyachts.com For Sale https://cafetropicana.company.site/ |
Menu https://cafetropicanavavau.business.site/
Tourism portals
Services available within walking distance:
Superyacht Agencies Yachthelppacific.com – David Hunt/ Hakula Lodge Super Yacht Services Tonga – Derek Leonard/Julie Goss Tongasuperyachts.com – Cafe Tropicana Slipways Fishing slipway for smaller monohulls Pafilios slipway for multihulls The Boatyard Vava’u – Mono and multihulls on hard storage. www.theboatyardvavau.com Water Town supply water available at Moorings/Riki Tiki by appointment please Rain water from Café Tropicana Rain water showers at Café Tropicana Fuel Fuel available at Moorings or fuel stations. Duty free fuel at check-out wharf Min 200litres 70972. Pacific Fuels booked 24-48 hours prior to departure. See page 5 for info • Duty Free Alcohol Leiola Duty Free +676 70148 next to Cafe Tropicana, 24 hours prior to departure pay for order, Leiola will deliver to Customs, you show receipt to Customs at Wharf and check off items, customs will take to your yacht. • Trades – Rigging/Skipper. See Mary at Café Tropicana – Welding/Fabrication. Friendly Island Fabrication Ken 8437123 friendlyislandfabrication@gmail.com – Vava’u Shipwrights – The Boatyard Vava’u +8816854
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| Local cruising NET:
• VHF Cruisers Net VHF Channel 26 8.30am each morning except Sunday. Alternative VHF 06 https://www.facebook.com/vavaucruisersnet
VHF Cruisers Net Order of service Emergency/priority traffic Check-ins Arrivals and departures Weather Buy/sell/trade Crew available/wanted Local special events Anything else Brief adverts from local business Local Charts and Chartlets: • Sailingbirds Guide to Vava’u/Ha’apai sold at Café Tropicana • www.vavau.to/marineguide free pdf for all of Tonga. Created by Cafe Tropicana • NZ822 / NZ82 / NZ14605 / NZ14602/ 2691 Fiji A0 charts and laminated A3 Chartlets – sold at Café Tropicana • www.vavau.to/weather all the weather in one spot! • GigGuide/Calendar with summary of local regulations. The Vaa’u Blue Water Festival is late September, other local events are on the calendar. www.vavau.to/gig guide 2023.pdf VHF Channels: • 06 Backup channel for VHF Net • 09 Beluga dive/Beluga moorings • 11 Te Pana Island • 13 Max Taxi • 16 Hailing ONLY – Mayday/Pan Pan etc. • 26 Repeater channel – VHF Net and used for long range communication, please be considerate, if you are talking to vessels that are close to you. Be aware this channel is monitored by Customs, Police, Governor and Tourism! • 71 Game Fishing • 72 Moorings/Sunsail calling • 73 Moorings/Sunsail working • 74 Whale watching operators • 77 Mounu Island • Please be considerate and discrete on all VHF channels, especially the above and move to a non-working channel as soon as practical… 08, 14, 17, 68 Common chat channels, be aware nosy people may follow you and listen in…. Other useful information specific to this area: • SPEED limit in the harbour 5 knot – and/or no WAKE. Be aware of wake for other yachts, swimmers, divers, fisherman turtles, whales! By order Marine and Ports Harbourmaster. • Please consider the environment and follow MARPOL rules and go 12 nautical miles to dump septic waste. • Please walk on the pavement/sidewalk – NOT the road, this is a LEFT side driving country, the roads, drivers and cars are not very good. If no sidewalk walk on the right side of the road (against traffic so you can see vehicles) • Cover and clean any open wounds, flies carry staph bacteria. Stay out of the sea, especially the first 50 metres from shore. |
Beware of Alofi a tall Tongan hawker – flag maker/bread/ feasts etc. Rows a dinghy and rides a bike. Report any problems to the Police, or Ministry of Tourism. He does homemade flags from tshirt
material, charges for everything he does and frequently exaggerates about services he offers. Cruises through town on a bicycle to show
| you his guest book from other cruisers, AVOID talking to him…
• Special Management Areas/Fish Habitat Reserve SMA/FHR are now in place, the legislation is designed to protect the breeding areas and environment. Fees to anchor, snorkel and dive can be levied by the village whose waters are protected. Officers carry ID, give receipts etc. An old sma/fhr map is available https://vavau.to/Tonga_SMA-flier.pdf it is being updated soon. • Whale watching regulations 2013 1.Unless you are in a licenced whale watching or whale swimming vessel, you are not allowed to approach any whale closer than 300m 2. Swimming with whales is prohibited unless you are on a licenced vessel and in the water with a certified guide. 3. If a whale surfaces near you, you should change the course of your vessel, in a safe manner, and move 300m from the whales at no-wake speed. 4. Kayaking with humpback whales is prohibited unless the kayak is launched from a licenced vessel. 5. No jet Skis are allowed within 2km of any whale. First time offence is a fine of between $1,000 and $5,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 18 months Repeat offence is a fine of between $1000 and $10000 and/or imprisonment of upto 3 years. https://vavau.to/TongaWhaleWatchingandSwimmingRegulations2013.pdf • Do not feed street dogs, they might bite the next person walking by with food who does not feed them….imagine if it is child… Please report dog bites to the Police Non-Government Organisations/Charities/Volunteering: • VVMRA Vava’u Volunteer Marine Response Association Monitors VHF 26/16 24 x 7, responds to local and EPIRB (via RCC NZ), works with Tonga police, and locals/yachts based in Vava’u for emergency Response www.vvmra.org VHF 16/26 “Vava’u Radio” emergency, not general enquiries Cell +8465645 Brian P O Box 43 Neiafu, Vava’u, Kingdom of Tonga • VEPA Vava’u Environmental Protection Association. An environmental NGO based in Vava’u. Mangrove, education, turtle and other conservation. Located next to the Bookshop in the middle of town. www.vavauenvironment.org Accepting volunteers https://vavauenvironment.org/volunteer/ • Vava’u Public Library The first public library in Tonga and a self-funded NGO. Accepting volunteers for english story reading Saturday morning and English childrens books Membership $5 a year https://www.facebook.com/groups/225935794136987 • VCT/VBWS Vava’u Community Trust. Youth NGO Trust. Employment, education. Owns Vava’u Blue Water School (Sailing and swimming school), Accepting volunteers to repair our training vessel SY Lobo and other projects https://www.facebook.com/vavaucommunitytrust • Host A Vet Partners with Vets to conduct Clinics/Surgeries/ Neutering, free medicines etc. See The Yacht Shop for donations etc https://www.facebook.com/hostavet • Vava’u Breast Cancer Committee. Based in Vava’u working solely to assist Vava’uan women with breast cancer. Transport, treatment and accommodation https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070118191741 |
Pens, paper, drawing pencils etc,Toothpaste/Tooth brushes, English childrens books, reading glasses. Accepted and distributed by Café Tropicana, or we can make suggestions if you wish to drop them off yourselves. We can also suggest places to Volunteer your time…
Must See and do in VAVA’U:
- Sunday Tongan Feast
- Walk up Mt Talau National Park; magnificent views from lookout platforms
- Swallows and Mariners cave tour
- Kava circle at Fire station or any village
- Sunday church service 10am for amazing singing at Catholic Cathedral, English service at City Impact Church in Toula
- Talau Cemetery – Palangi Cemetery
- Pouonu Park – birth place of Vava’u Code
- Kilikilitefua Wall (Makave) the old census system
- Catholic Cathedral
- Beaches (Eneio Private), Keitahi (Private), Talihau Beach, Ano Beach, Holeva Beach
- Toula cemetery and Veimumuni Caves
- ‘Utula’aina (Holonga), ‘Esi ‘o Salota (Holonga), Hila Ki Tapana/I ‘o
Mata’aho (Leimatua), Tufutele Pool (Mataika), Rock Island Beach
(Holeva), Vaipua, Ngofe-Reed fields (Tu’anuku), Mo’ungalafa
(Tu’anuku), Longamapu. Lolo ‘a Halavalu (Neiafu), Fa ko Fiem’a
(Vai ko lelea) (Neiafu), Sia ‘o Kafoa (Taoa), ‘Api ‘o Maka (Taoa),
Loto ‘a afitu (Makave), Mapu ‘a Tonga (Makave), Nga ‘unoho
(Talihau), ‘Out Mala (Talihau), ‘Otualea (Ha’alaufuli), To ‘anga’ofa
(Utui) www.vavau.to or www.tongatourism.travel for other tourist information
Map of Vava’u harbour with description:
International Clearance Berthing Note:
Pacific Fuels – Petrol/diesel:
Duty free is available once the vessel is cleared out from the final port. It can be shared to meet minimums. Duty free is a significant saving, Fiji does not do duty free fuel. Fuel bunker is closed for trucks if a bunker boat is in the harbour. Appointment times are indicative only. Duty free is about 30% cheaper than the retail price at the pump (15% CT/15% Duty).
Vava’u
Phone: 70972 NO VHF
Email: tuiaki.kauvaka@p.energy
Website: www.p.energy
Hours 9am to 4.30pm M to F
GPS coordinates: at Wharf 18°39’6.97″S 173°59’9.03″W
OFFICE Toula fuel Bunker 18°40’36.58″S 173°59’8.61″W
Vava’u Minimum 24-48 hours’ notice. Cash Only. Duty free 200litres Min but boats can share. Duty free generally delivered after 10am to the wharf and AFTER customs have given clearance papers. MUST be last Tongan port. Tanker refills petrol stations Monday morning and Friday afternoon. Nuku’alofa
Phone: 22511 22397 VHF Ch: None
Email: ifalemi.tauheluhelumau@p.energy
Website: www.p.energy
Tongatapu Minimum 24 hours’ notice. Cash Only. Duty free 1000litres Min but boats can share. Duty free generally delivered after 10am to the wharf and AFTER customs have given clearance papers. MUST be last Tongan port.
Ha’apai no duty free fuel
Niuatoputapu no duty free fuel
Homegas/Tongagas – Butane:
Gas bunker is closed for refilling bottles if a Gas bunker vessel is in the harbour.
Vava’u
Phone: 70319 VHF: NONE
Email: NONE
GPS coordinates: 18°40’37.44″S 173°59’8.27″W
Location: Toula fuel Bunker
Vava’u Cafe Tropicana charges $5 a kg and a $5 surcharge – generally next day if not weekly.
Nuku’alofa
Phone: 21390 VHF Ch: None
GPS coordinates: 21° 8’33.09″S 175°10’33.57″W
Location Ma’ufanga Bunker
Website: www.homegas.to
DOES not have all adaptors – NO CAMPINGAZ fittings!!
Vava’u Taxi from town is $5 each way. Or bring in to Café Tropicana Hours 9am to 4.30pm M to Sa
TONGA DIGITAL CHARTS
TONGA DIGITAL CHARTS IN MBTILES FORMAT
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