Fatu Hiva : Profile

Location

Since Thor Heyerdall lived here for a year in the 1920's, the island has long symbolized the South pacific islands for many of us. The island is mysterious and the people living in the dark valley of Hanavave are somewhat special. The Baie des Vierges is perhaps the most scenic anchorage in the Marquesas.

Clearance

This is not a port of entry. The local policeman, based in Omoa, visits Hanavave every day and will check that boats have stopped first at Hiva Oa and have cleared at the gendarmerie there. Those that have not may be told that they cannot stay.

Patrols by French Customs between the islands, has resulted in several cruisers being fined US$200 or more, for being in Fatu Hiva without clearing in at Hiva Oa first.

Docking

There is a small harbor in the NE corner of the bay by Hanavave protected by a substantial breakwater. Inside there is a quay and launching ramp. Dinghies can be left on either. Strong accelerated winds sweep down the valley and gusts of up to 50 kts or more have caused more than a few boats to drag anchor into each other in this quickly deepening anchorage.

Small quay also in Omoa with a line where you can tie up your dinghy safely away from the big surge.

Note that dinghy thefts have been reported here, so be sure to padlock your dinghy and outboard and raise both at night.

Last updated October 2011.

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