Kolonia : Profile

Location

Pohnpei is the largest and tallest island in the FSM. Its tall peaks cause plenty of rain, creating more than 40 rivers and many spectacular waterfalls.

Kolonia Port Control should be contacted on Channel 16 just before you get to the main pass/entrance to the inner lagoon. The operator will advise where to berth. For clearing in it is best to come alongside the commercial wharf. If there is no space at the wharf, one can anchor and go ashore. Immigration, Customs, EPA, Quarantine, and Agriculture will come to your boat once you are along side the dock.

The wait for Customs and Immigration can be long (up to a few hours), if there is a plane in at the airport. Arrivals at weekends should be avoided as overtime fees will be charged.

Don’t anchor until you get instructions from Port Control. The buoy numbers are extremely difficult to read, but boats should be able to anchor on Sundays south of the turning area for the large cargo ships and clear in on Monday morning.

The ship's log may be inspected to see if the boat has made any stops before clearing in. Holding tanks may also be inspected (see Restrictions).

On departure, it is possible to clear customs in town, but immigration may insist on clearing the yacht at the commercial wharf.

Last updated April 2011.

Docking

The channel leading into the inner harbour is poorly marked, so local help may be needed. Do not attempt to enter at night.

The anchorage off the abandonded yacht club is convenient, but not the most pleasant due to lack of breeze and many bugs.

The east side of the island provides a protected spot but is more exposed to the trade winds.

There are now a few moorings available in the harbor (check with the owner of the South Park Hotel if his dinghy operator doesn't contact you when you come in to anchor).

Updated April 2011.

Sokehs Harbour
There is no longer any water available at the old Rumors Dock in Sokehs Harbor. The dock really no longer exists, as it is crumbling into the lagoon. Cruisers need to exercise great care when coming ashore. The boat ramp is extremely slippery, though cruisers do use the area with care.