Navigation :
There are an abundance of protected anchorages and deep water drop offs. Tonga is a year round sailing destination, with annual temperatures ranging between 26 and 37 C (78 – 98 F). Wind speeds range from 8 – 12 knots (8 – 13 Mph) from November to March, and between 13 and 18 knots (14 - 20 Mph) from April to October.
Night Sailing is not permitted; you must be moored at least one hour before sunset at all of our locations.
Arrival :
International flights arrive into Fua’amotu Airport on Tongatapu (TBU). There are flights at least once a day (ex. Sunday) by Chathams Pacific Airlines to Vava'u, but the planes are small and space is limited.
This commuter flight takes 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Itinerary :
10 Day
Day 1: Join your yacht in Vava'u and sail to Kapa Island
On Kapa island, snorkel through the heart-shaped entrance into a mystical, blue-lit cavern. Locally known as ‘Picnic Island’ for its past uses by Tongan Royalty for Tongan feasts and celebrations, this picture postcard atoll is so peaceful and serene that you won’t want to leave. The Japanese Coral Gardens provide top-notch snorkelling- keep an eye out for clown fish, starfish, and lionfish.
Day 2: Kapa Island to Fale Vai
Day 3: Fale Vai to Hunga
On the western shore, limestone cliffs flank the lagoon entrance. The lagoon was formed from a volcano crater; it currently offers great fishing. The deep waters just outside the lagoon provide a welcome haven to the visiting Humpback Whales, which arrive here between July and October every year. Trek to the Ika Lahi lookout for expansive views of the ocean.
Day 4: Hunga to Vaka'eitu
Stop at the peaceful Vaka’eitu anchorage. Snorkel the coral gardens. Discover coves and inlets via kayak or simply relax on a beach hammock, listening to the waves crashing quietly in the background.
Day 5: Take a day trip to Lauhaipu
Luahaipu is a beautiful, uninhabited island.
Day 6: Vaka'eitu to Hinakauea Beach
This beach is famous for its traditional Tongan feasts. Kava, a mildly intoxicating drink made from the Kava root, flows freely under the light of blazing torches. The food is served on polas, long trays made from plaited coconut fronds.
Day 7: Hinakawea Beach to Kenutu
There are lots of good places to eat and drink on the lush island of Kenutu. Take a walk around the island, do some more snorkelling, or just relax on beach.
Day 8: Kenutu to Taunga
Taunga’s reef is comprised of both soft and hard corals. The region is dense with wildlife, both above and below water. Keep an eye out for the indigenous Flying Foxes hanging from the fruit trees. In the evening, dine on succulent roast pork, fresh fish dishes, and tropical fruits. After dinner there is a traditional, Tongan evening of song and dance which you are welcome to participate in.
Day 9: Taunga to Olo'ua
There is a protected anchorage that offers superb snorkelling.
Day 10: Olo'ua to Kapa Island
Day 11: Disembarkation
14 Day
Day 1: Vava’u
Day 2: Hunga Island
On the western shore, limestone cliffs flank the lagoon entrance. The lagoon was formed from a volcano crater; it currently offers great fishing. The deep waters just outside the lagoon provide a welcome haven to the visiting Humpback Whales, which arrive here between July and October every year. Trek to the Ika Lahi lookout for expansive views of the ocean.
Day 3: Vaka’eitu
Stop at the peaceful Vaka’eitu anchorage. Snorkel the coral gardens. Discover coves and inlets via kayak or simply relax on a beach hammock, listening to the waves crashing quietly in the background.
Day 4: Nuku, Kapa Island
On Kapa island, snorkel through the heart-shaped entrance into a mystical, blue-lit cavern. Locally known as ‘Picnic Island’ for its past uses by Tongan Royalty for Tongan feasts and celebrations, this picture postcard atoll is so peaceful and serene that you won’t want to leave. The Japanese Coral Gardens provide top-notch snorkelling- keep an eye out for clown fish, starfish, and lionfish.
Day 5 and 6: Free Sailing
Day 7: Mouni
Mouni is an eco-resort, which focuses on sustainability in order to have minimal impact on the environment. A pristine beach stretches the entire circumference of the island. Before dusk take another stroll along the beach and you might be lucky enough to see the Humpback Whales gliding majestically through the warm tranquil waters, or the turtles coming in to nest at the islands shores.
Day 8: Maninita
The island of Maninita is home to the majestic Puko tree and rare birds like Frigates and Small White Terns. This ancient forested coral atoll makes for some thrilling snorkelling opportunities.
Day 9: Free Sailing
Day 10 and 11: Kenutu
There are lots of good places to eat and drink on the lush island of Kenutu. Take a walk around the island, do some more snorkelling, or just relax on beach.
Day 12: Taunga
Taunga’s reef is comprised of both soft and hard corals. The region is dense with wildlife, both above and below water. Keep an eye out for the indigenous Flying Foxes hanging from the fruit trees. In the evening, dine on succulent roast pork, fresh fish dishes, and tropical fruits. After dinner there is a traditional, Tongan evening of song and dance which you are welcome to participate in.
Day 13: Free Sailing
Day 14: Vava’u