Explore: Hakahau (Ua Pou)
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General Info
COVID-19: OPEN PORT
Description:
Probably the most scenic island in the Marquesas from a distance, with its volcanic spires and needles. The iconic snaggle tooth profile of Ua Pou is strikingly visible from miles away on a clear day and has been likened to a Disneyland castle or a palace with minarets.
Entrance Notes and Cautions:
There is swell in most bays, including the main villages of Hakahau and Hakahetau.
Cruiser Highlights:
A beautiful waterfall that is easy to access and delicious handmade chocolate from Manfred the chocolatier who grows his own cacao.
Position:
09° 21.40’S, 140° 02.89’W (Hakahau harbor)
Clearance
Hakahau is a Port of Entry.
See the French Polynesia Clearance page for full details.
There are three Gendarmerie areas in the Marquesas: Hiva Oa, Ua Pou, and Nuku Hiva, and officially boats arriving from overseas should go to one of these islands first.
It is NO LONGER compulsory for all yachts visiting French Polynesia to visit Papeete Customs and Immigration to complete the clearing-in process.
Yachts can now clear in or out of FP with the “gendarmes” offices (French Police) at the ports of entry in the other islands.
The Gendarmerie Nationale in Hakahau can deal with Customs and Immigration (open Monday to Friday 0730-1200 & 1400-1730).
For full details on clearance into and out of FP go to French Polynesia Formalities.
If you have fruits or vegetables from other islands, they may not be landed, as Ua Pou does not have the fruit fly.
Last updated: May 2022
Docking
Hakahau Harbour:
The bay provides good holding in 4m/15′ and generally gets NE winds irrespective of the wind
direction outside. Whenever the winds are stronger, they also became gusty within the anchorage.
Anchorage is available behind a breakwater in 20 feet of good sand for 5 or 6 boats, or else anchor out in the bay (less protected with some swell). The bay is small and yachts use a bow and stern anchors so more can fit in and face into the swell.
Dinghy Dock
The dock has water faucets and a dinghy landing, with an easy walk to the village. Alternatively, land at the beach closer to the village. There’s plenty of room on the dinghy dock and the bollards are strong.
If space is available, boats may come alongside the quay temporarily, when local freighters do not use it.
Yacht Adina who visited here in 2014 have a good article on their website about Using a Stern Anchor.
Also checkout the Soggy Paws Compendium and Jacaranda Journey notes for helpful and useful information.
Last updated: May 2022
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