Rabaul lies on the northern tip of New Britain at the foot of the Mount Tavurvur volcano. The latest volcanic eruption occurred on 29 August 2014. It's the largest town on the island of New Britain.
The harbour that made the area so attractive as a port when it was first settled by German colonists, was actually formed when the sea partially flooded the caldera after a cataclysmic eruption about 1,400 years ago.
In 1937, an explosive eruption from Mount Tavurvur obliterated much of the town, killing 500 people in the process. In 1994 Mount Tavurvur and another nearby volcano Mount Vulcan, burst to life simultaneously. A quick evacuation plan meant that just five people lost their lives, but so much ash piled up on buildings that about two-thirds of the town was destroyed.
Once called "The Pearl of the Pacific" the volcanic eruptions in 1994 and 2014 have turned it into something more like Pompeii. Very little of the original town remains and there is plenty of thick volcanic ash, however, the locals are said to be extremely friendly and the yacht club very welcoming.
The Duke of York Islands are just a few hours sail from Rabaul, with a very protected anchorage and locals that are keen to welcome yachties. However, negotiate anchoring fees with caution. A lone Japanese yachtsman was charged 600 Kina for 2 days at anchor (approx. USD$150) in February 2025, even though he negotiated a price of 50 Kina (USD$12) per day.
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Recent advice is that security concerns remain so be vigilant. It is recommended to use the yacht club moorings. Night time anchoring in Kokopo off the resorts should also be treated with caution as boardings and thefts continue to be reported from here. The Duke of York Islands, close to Kokopo, have several good anchorages, with local villagers keen to ensure the safety of their island group for traveling yachts.
04° 15.15'S, 152° 10.57'E (bay entrance)
Last updated: January 2024
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