Diego Garcia - Facts

Where is Diego Garcia?

Diego Garcia is the largest island in the Chagos archipelago. It lies in the southern part of the British Indian Ocean Territories (BIOT).

There is no permanent population in BIOT, but Diego Garcia, the largest of the 58 islands hosts a joint UK-US military facility.

BIOT is governed by a Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner and Administrator based in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in London. The Commissioner’s representative in Diego Garcia is a Royal Navy Commander, who is also the office commanding the British Forces on Diego Garcia.

Cruiser Access to Diego Garcia:

Unauthorised vessels or persons are not permitted to access this island and no unauthorised vessel is permitted to approach within three nautical miles. Vessels in transit, on “innocent passage” as defined under Maritime Law, should maintain their course away from Diego Garcia.

Access to Diego Garcia is only permitted to those on pre-authorised official duty.

However, cruisers report that it MAY be possible to stop here in emergency situations, but the authorities must be contacted in advance to gain permission. In 2022 cruisers reported getting permission from the British Police on the atoll to seek shelter from hostile weather conditions and to effect self-repairs.

Position - entrance to the pass:

07° 14'33"S, 72° 23'34"E

Last updated:  June 2024