Cocos Keeling : Profile

Facts

The Cocos Keeling Islands consist of two atolls, North Keeling and South Keeling, comprising 27 low coral islands, most of them clustered around South Keeling's lagoon. Most of the smaller islands are uninhabited. Cocos Keeling is an Australian territory.
The islands are a convenient stop for westbound yachts in the South Indian Ocean. The anchorage in the lee of Direction Island has been described as being particularly beautiful. This is perhaps the reason why some yachts which call for only a few days stay longer than intended.
Direction Island is uninhabited and has almost no facilities. Home Island has about 500 inhabitants of Malaysian descent and all Muslim. Appropriate conservative dress should be worn when visiting Home Island in consideration of the residents; Home Island has some shops and fuel is available. West Island is the commercial center with police & customs, airport, dive shop, and other tourist facilities.

The islands are under the influence of the SE trade winds for most of the year. The winds are strongest in August. During the cyclone season, from December to March, the winds are lighter. The islands are rarely affected by tropical storms.

There is an Australian Bureau of Meteorology office on West Island. They can be contacted by telephone from Home Island and will assist with forecast information.