Palmerston : Profile

Location

This remote atoll is one of the friendliest place cruising sailors will encounter during their voyage. The descendants of William Marsters, who settled this atoll in 1860 with his 3 wives, then 17 kids and 54 grand-kids, have traditionally welcomed seafearers.

Clearance

Locals monitor VHF 16 24h/day so they can assist you for your landing. The first family answering your call is going to host you during your stay. You can call AlphaSierra (Simon, Ed & Paul) or the Palmerston Yacht Club (Bill) for efficient assistance. This is not an official port of entry. Check with local police officer if not cleared in the Cook islands yet.

Crews must remain onboard until check in is complete. Note that Customs do not work on Sundays in which case you will have to wait until Monday to clear in.

Docking

The anchorage is on the lee (W) side of the atoll, has a depth of 30-50ft, coral bottom extending away from the fringing reef so by choosing well your spot, you could swing 360 degrees without problems.

There are now 6 moorings available, with no charge. Check with the families on the VHF before picking one up. These make anchoring in Palmerston much less stressful, particularly if a West wind blows.

Last updated June 2008

Yacht Clubs

Palmerston Island Yacht Club
c/o Bill Tuakana Marsters, Palmerston
Tel:Public phone: (682) 37 684, Fax:(682) 37 683
Many services offered to cruisers like laundry, hot showers, pot-luck area, book exchange, anything - just ask! Do not forget to fill our gold logbook. Please, come and enjoy our hospitality!

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