 Tonga : Profile
This Polynesian kingdom, situated in the heart of the South Pacific, consists of over 160 coral and volcanic islands, of which only 36 are inhabited. Best known among sailors is the northern group of Vava'u, whose maze of islets and reefs provides one of the best cruising grounds in the South Pacific. In spite of Tonga's remoteness, facilities are surprisingly good and the setting up of a small industrial centre near the capital Nuku'alofa has encouraged several boating-related foreign companies to start operations in Tonga. A dangerous area to avoid by boats on passage to Fiji is Metis Shoal (19°11.4'S 174°51'W), where there has been intense volcanic activity. Following the May 2006 earthquake, some anchorages are no longer tenable due to the settling of the islands in the Ha'apai Group. The northern part of the Kingdom, in particular Niuatoputapu Island, suffered extensive damage following the 2009 Samoa earthquake and subsequent Tsunami. Approximately 192 families were left homeless. Visiting Cruisers can help greatly with clothing and bedding donations.
Tonga's climate is warm and humid, although less so than other tropical islands. December to March, which is also the hurricane season, has more rain. From April to November the SE trade winds predominate, although quick sudden squalls can occur from other directions.
Cruiser's Net Update is now on VHF 26 at 8.30 am Monday-Friday (provides useful information on weather, tides, contacts, services offered or needed and local advertising).
Tonga Weather Forecast.
Lifuka (Ha'apai)
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, Neiafu (Vava'u)
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, Niuafo'ou Island
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, Niuatoputapu Island
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, Nuku'alofa (Tongatapu)
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*Indicates a port of entry.
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