This is the second biggest atoll of the Tuamotu archipelago. Fakarava is an interesting atoll to visit as it has been classified as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. It includes seven low islands and atolls: Aratika, Fakarava, Kauehi, Niau, Raraka, Taiaro and Toau.
Pass Garuae (the northern pass) is very wide (1.6km) and easy and is near the town of Rotaova. It is easily passable except in north winds and if the south swell is strong.
Pass Tumakohua (the southern pass - 25nm further south) is a little more tricky to negotiate but well marked.
There is a navigation channel from north to south - stay in the channel as outside the channel there are risks from buoys and submerged lines from pearl farms.
There are five designated anchorages which are often busy with super yachts, water skiing, dive boats and dinghies.
SY Jacaranda have useful passage notes for Fakarava and in particular the south pass on their website.
Scuba diving at both passes is excellent and the channel between the passes is well marked so the very few coral heads are easily avoided. Anchoring is forbidden in the Les Sables Roses area due its inclusion in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Read this Cruiser Blog about the atoll: Fakarava - A Class of Its Own (Sailing Infinity May 2022)
16° 04.41'S, 145° 43.02'W (Pass Garuae)
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