Tonga is one of the best kept secrets of the sailing world.  When Captain Cook sailed upon the ancient Kingdom of Tonga two hundred years ago, he named the group of islands “the friendly islands”.  Since this time, the islands have barely changed – such is the sedate pace with which life proceeds.  During your charter holiday in Tonga you will feel as though you have landed in paradise – a paradise of 71 untouched delightful islands.

The Tongan Islands of Vava’u with their safe anchorage’s and secluded coves, offer one of the world’s finest cruising areas. The northern-most group of the Tongan Islands, The Vava’u Archipelago is blessed with a near-perfect climate for year-round sailing. It is estimated to have had over 2,000 years of settlement. This group of islands is a place of brilliant colours, blue lagoons, fine white coral sand beaches and lush green coconut plantations.

Experienced travellers liken the Vava’u group to “a cross between the Bahamas and the Virgin Islands” with its dramatic deep-water drop-offs and brilliant shallow lagoons. The Vava’u group has a population of about 20,000 spread over most of the 50-odd islands – about a third live in or around Neiafu (and the harbour) where there are four nearby villages: Makava, Taoa, Toula and Vaimalo.

The diving and snorkelling is amazing in crystal clear water with its brilliantly coloured coral and reef fish.  During the period from July to November, the area is home to huge pods of Humpback Whales, which often swim with the yachts, accompanied by their newly born offspring.

For those who enjoy dining out, Tongan beach feasts are regular functions at the local resorts. There are also a number of island beach bars and restaurants set in magical anchorages, ideal for watching the famous Tongan sunsets.

Tonga is renowned for its handicrafts, reputedly the finest in the South Pacific. In Vava’u the choice is fabulous. It is possible to make direct personal contact with the artists, weavers and artisans. Duty Free shopping is also available in Vava’u. Like the rest of Tonga, Vava’u is a Duty Free port.

Wind and sailing conditions are light. Steady trade winds blow in a south easterly direction at a constant 13-18 knots all year round, making sailing here a delight. There are occasional northwest winds which normally shift to the south within 12 hours. Vava’u provides a satisfactory forecasting service and good protection.  The average Temperature range from  25 – 30˚C.

Wind direction: April to November SE
                         December to March NW

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