Makatea - General Info
Description:
Makatea, or Mangaia-te-vai-tamae, is a raised coral atoll in the northwestern part of the Tuamotus, approximately 80 kilometres southwest from Rangiroa. It has a population of about 100 people and the supply boat visits approx. twice a month.
Makatea once had 11 million tons of phosphate-rich sand in its limestone cylinders, the mining of which stopped in 1966 followed by a mass exodus from the island. There are remnants of this once-booming industry everywhere on the island, including ruins, old machinery, a railroad track and the dock where you can come ashore, originally the dock where the phosphate extracted from the center of the island was loaded.
A complex system of partially submerged caves form an underground labyrinth. Cave divers continue to explore this part of Makatea, not yet having found the bottom. Makatea is also known for its excellent climbing (there are currently just over 100 routes).
Entrance Notes and Cautions:
The island is a raised coral atoll with a surrounding reef, huge cliffs (60-100m high) and no protective lagoon – the cliffs rise directly from the reef.
There are several moorings available for visiting yachts.
Cruiser Highlights:
An overnight sail from Papeete, there are basic facilities but a warm welcome for visiting yachts. Fascinating island to explore both above and below ground.
See this report from Kristin Percy and Rupert Wilson from SY Rumpus:
Position:
15°49’27″S 148°16’24″W (breakwater entrance)
Read and Post Related Comments
If you have information for this section, or feedback on businesses used, please let us know at [email protected]. We also welcome new information about businesses you have used (see Related Businesses).
Next Section: Profile: Clearance
Related to following destinations: French Polynesia, Makatea, Tuamotus
Port Navigation
Courtesy Flag Discounts
YachtFlags.com provides high quality courtesy flags that are manufactured in durable Knitted Polyester fabric. Knitted so that the fabric itself does not deteriorate in the constant movement that marine flags are usually exposed to, and polyester so that the flag does not weaken in the strong UV-light usually found in the main sailing areas of the world.
YachtFlags.com offers a discount to Noonsite members.
Use the coupon code NOONSITE_5A2B when checking out to get 10% off today.
Buy Now On YachtFlags.comMain Ports - French Polynesia
Courtesy Flag Discounts
YachtFlags.com provides high quality courtesy flags that are manufactured in durable Knitted Polyester fabric. Knitted so that the fabric itself does not deteriorate in the constant movement that marine flags are usually exposed to, and polyester so that the flag does not weaken in the strong UV-light usually found in the main sailing areas of the world.
YachtFlags.com offers a discount to Noonsite members.
Use the coupon code NOONSITE_5A2B when checking out to get 10% off today.
Buy Now On YachtFlags.comComments
