17 April 2025
A Message from our Director regarding Tonga
For yacht charterers everywhere wishing to sail in the Pacific, Tonga is back!
Sail Connections is actively partnering with a local operator to reintroduce the magical destination that is Vava'u, beginning with a well-maintained, locally owned Leopard 46 catamaran. Formerly operated by The Moorings, this boat was launched in early 2012 and served in Tahiti until 2017 before entering charter in northern Tonga. While its history includes charter use, and clients need to understand it is well-used, it is presented in a very tidy condition.
The unique beauty and sheltered waters of the Vava’u group offer an exceptional sailing environment within the stunning Blue Pacific. With renewed governmental support and the first boat now available, the northern islands of Tonga are set to once again become a popular charter destination, with expectations for swift fleet expansion.
Robert Cross
An Invitation to Experience the Blue Pacific
Captain James Cook's 'Friendly Islands', the Kingdom of Tonga features three main island groups, with the northern Vava'u Group standing out as a premier yacht charter destination.
Despite its popularity, the Vava'u archipelago retains a remarkable sense of space, often making you feel as though you've discovered your own private paradise. Sailing through the Vava'u charter cruising grounds from Neiafu harbour is a true delight, leading you into the expansive blue Pacific and a collection of over 50 secure anchorages nestled amongst numerous islands.
Escape to a tranquil world and a slower pace of life. Your search for peace ends in the Vava'u Group of Tonga, where chartering a yacht allows you to explore secluded, idyllic islands, stunning lagoons, vibrant reefs, and countless miles of deserted white-sand beaches shaded by swaying palm trees.
The warm, clear Pacific waters offer exceptional visibility, making snorkeling among the diverse and colorful marine life an unforgettable experience. Scuba diving enthusiasts will find excellent opportunities for reef, cave, and wreck exploration at various sites. Ashore, the friendly local population welcomes visitors and readily shares their unique Pacific culture and lifestyle.
The Vava'u charter sailing area is geographically compact, providing numerous choices for both day stops and overnight anchorages. This offers considerable flexibility, enabling you to tailor your itinerary to suit the prevailing winds and your personal preferences. To provide guidance and highlight potential destinations, a sample 10-day bareboat charter itinerary for Tonga is available.
Immerse yourself in the relaxed pace of life as you explore the diverse islands of the Vava'u Group, where each day unfolds at your leisure.
A suggested 10-day itinerary for cruising the Vava'u Islands
About Sailing Holiday Charters in Tonga's Vava'u Group
Restricted sailing zones
Information on areas out of bounds on charter is covered in the chart briefing. Charterers are asked to stay away from the exposed windward (eastern) side of the island Group. The area of charter comprises the islands of Vava'u Group.
Charter Facilities
Facilities at the charter base marina in Neiafu include a provisioning service, fuel, ice, laundry, boutique, restaurant, shower, café and bar. There are no shops or stores on any of the outer islands, but some do have small restaurants.
Kapa
From this central location you can cruise to no less than forty recognised anchorages, many of them within two hours' sailing. Don't miss the Swallows Cave on the island's northwest tip. It is a spectacular sight that is similar to the Blue Grotto in Capri. Port Maurelle on Kapa is the spot where the Spanish explorer Maurelle,who in 1781 was the first European to see Vava'u, anchored his ship. It is a lovely and protected natural anchorage.
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 200ft-wide pass. Here a traditional Tongan village shares the shoreline with the 'Island Style' Club Hunga Resort. Further along, on the western coast of Nuapapu is the fascinating Mariner's Cave, an underwater cavern which good swimmers will be able to visit. At Vaka'eitu you will find a safe overnight anchorage.
Mananita
Mananita is surrounded by reefs that provide some of the best snorkelling in the area. Careful navigation through the reefs will be rewarded by the discovery of perfect white, powdery sand 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 perfect for an overnight stay, with an attractive beach, excellent diving for experienced divers on the reef and a walk on the exposed ocean side to see the caverns and blowholes.
Mounu
A delightful small island surrounded by a sandy beach, Mounu is the idyllic South Pacific island. There is a small resort on the western end of the island. Call ahead on the VHF and make your reservation for a gourmet meal.
Nuku
A tiny island with a cosy anchorage alongside an idyllic sandspit, Nuku is possibly the most photographed island in the Kingdom of Tonga. A perfect place for a day stop. Safe swimming and snorkelling allow beginners to gain their confidence. Nuku becomes a favourite with all who visit Vava'u.
A'a
Between Nuku and Port Maurelle, A'a 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, with the depth dropping away to around 200 feet.
Cruising Notes for Tonga’s Vava'u Islands
A typical 10-day charter Itinerary
Day 1: Vava'u to Kapa Island
Orientation, chart briefing and checkout of your yacht. Sail to Port Maurelle on Kapa Island.
Day 2: Kapa Island to Fale Vai
Snorkel the north side of Ava Island. Sail to Nuku and anchor off Fale Vai.
Day 3: Fale Vai to Hunga
Sail out the Faihava Pass to Hunga, where the fishing is excellent (with your own gear). Anchor in Hunga Lagoon.
Day 4: Hunga to Vaka'eitu
Enjoy a short sail to Foeata for snorkelling. Sail to Vakaíeitu for the night.
Day 5: Day trip to Luahaipu
Sail south for a day trip to Luaa Fuleheu or Luahaipu, both beautiful and uninhabited. Sail back to Vakaíeitu and snorkel the reef.
Day 6: Vaka'eitu to Hinakawea
Beach Sail to Euaiki and then on to Hinakawea Beach for a Polynesian feast and traiditional Tongan dance.
Day 7: Hinakawea Beach to Kenutu
Sail to remote Maninita for lunch and snorkelling. After lunch, head north to Kenutu and anchor overnight.
Day 8: Kenutu to Taunga
Leave early for Fanua Tapu Pass. Anchor on the north side of Taunga and snorkel the reefs of Tauta.
Day 9: Taunga to Olo'ua
Sail carefully through the reefs to visit Mafana and Olo'ua.
Day 10: Olo'ua to Kapa Island
Sail around Taunga for snorkelling between Ngau and Pau. Sail for Nuapapa and Mariners Cave, then on to Swallows Cave on Kapa.
Final Morning: Kapa Island to Neiafu
Return to Port of Refuge Harbour to check out before noon.
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