For full details on clearing into and out of PNG see PNG Formalities.
The Customs and Immigration officials in Buka are reported to be very responsive and helpful and will even answer WhatsApp questions on the weekend. Contact them ahead of your arrival:
The customs office in Buka is one street back from the harbour and is across the road from the only supermarket in the centre of town. However, officials will most likely come to your boat and do all paperwork aboard. You will then need to go to their offices in town to pay an 80 Kina (about 20 USD) fee for biosecurity. If officials come to you by taxi boat, you will be expected to pay the boat fee - around 50 kina.
Note: Boats that would like to stop in Takuu or Carteret on the way to Buka are asked to Whatsapp and Email in advance to ask for permission to do so before obtaining official clearance. This is very practical as both locations lie upwind (in tradewind conditions) to the east from Buka.
Outward clearance can be carried out at the Customs office in Buka town.
Last updated: 2025
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