Ontong Java Atoll - General Info

Where is Ontong Java Atoll?

This remote atoll is one of the largest ones in the world, being boot-shaped and about 35 miles long from north to south and the same east to west. It lies 200 miles north of the nearest of the other Solomon Islands, but just 25 miles east of the Papua New Guinea island of Nukumanu. Although made up of over 120 islets, the two largest are Luaniua at southern end and Pelau on the northeastern side.

The principal activities of the island are harvesting coconuts, producing copra and fishing.

Entrance Notes and Cautions

• The light ships are not in positions indicated by C-maps, but there are some there.
• The southern pass into the lagoon is deep and very wide, but watch for two shallow-ish areas each side. It shallows to 50 feet once inside the lagoon.
• There is no noticeable current through this pass.
• Locals are generally asking for anchorage fees up to 500 SBD per night here, however there is free anchorage at Hakupa Island.

Position:

5° 31.4'S, 159°37.5'E. (entrance to the southern pass).