TONGA

Check out our wonderful trip to the Kingdom of Tonga in May, 2004

For more information go to > CWTonga

Nuapapu, Vaka’eitu, Maninita, Kenutu, Hikutamoli, Foeata.  The list of anchorages is so long (and the names so unpronounceable!) that the cruising guide has taken to numbering them!  But you need no linguistic ability to come away with wonderful memories of brilliant snorkeling, entrancing Tongan music and dancing, friendly and dignified islanders, and a sailor’s paradise.

The Kingdom of Tonga is Polynesia's oldest and last remaining monarchy; it has never been under foreign rule. Captain Cook visited the islands in 1773, 1774 and 1777, and his hosts entertained him so lavishly and hospitably that the islands became known as the Friendly Islands.  “Tonga” means “south,” and thus the climate is cooler and less humid than the islands closer to the Equator.

Tonga has three major groups of islands: Tongatapu in the south with the capital, Nuku'alofa, and the international airport; Ha’apai, farther north with low coral islands and high volcanoes; and the Vava'u group in the north, which is the cruising area.

The Vava'u group consists of 34 islands, 21 of which are inhabited.  Neiafu, the principal town on the main island of Vava'u, overlooks one of the best harbors in the Pacific called Port of Refuge, named by Captain Maurelle, a Spaniard who called in on his way to Manila in 1781.

Fair winds and very little chop promise excellent sailing in the Vava’u group of islands.  With 70+ feet of underwater visibility and coral in very good condition, the snorkeling and diving are great.  Sea kayaks and dive boats with guides are readily available, as is deep-sea fishing for marlin, sailfish, mahi mahi and yellowfin tuna.  Additionally, a visit to church on Sunday morning to hear the singing is a memorable experience.

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