 Nuku'alofa (Tongatapu) : Profile
Nuku'alofa Harbour must be contacted on Channel 16 for clearance instructions. Normally boats are instructed to come to Queen Salote Wharf, the large commercial wharf at the eastern end of the harbour or in the restricted anchorage area close to the wharf. If no contact is made on VHF, the boat should be taken to Queen Salote Wharf. Certain areas in the approaches to Nuku'alofa are prohibited for anchoring and these are marked on the chart. The customs offices are in a building near the cargo wharf, north of the harbour basin, open 0830-1230, 1330-1630. Boats are only cleared between 0830 and 1630 Monday to Friday and are normally boarded by immigration and agriculture officials. Fresh fruit, vegetables, some herbs and non-commercially packed eggs will be confiscated and destroyed. Yachts are not cleared in or out at weekends. If arriving outside normal hours, one should anchor with the Q flag flying close to the wharf and proceed to the wharf during appropriate times. No one should leave the vessel until properly cleared.
After clearance or if instructed by a customs official, one should then proceed to Faua, the small boat harbour or the designated yacht anchorage at Pangaimotu Island. Faua harbour just west of the Queen Salote wharf is close to Nuku'alofa town. The entrance is 8.5 ft (2.6 m) at low tide and dredged to a depth of 9-13 ft (3-4 m) inside. Yachts should moor Mediterranean-style on the north side of the harbour, with long stern lines - a dinghy is still needed to get ashore. The area around the Fisheries market on the south side must be kept clear for local boat use.
Nuku'alofa Harbour is reportedly not very clean. Pangaimoto Island is much nicer and cleaner, the small resort is very
welcoming to cruisers.
Nuku'alofa Yacht and Motorboat Club
P.O. Box 401, Nuku'alofa
The club is located on the waterfront, on the way into Nuku'alofa. Visiting sailors may use the club facilities, which include showers and a snack bar. Temporary membership is free for the first 14 days, after which a small monthly charge is made. Mail will be held for boats in transit if marked 'hold for arrival'.
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