Australs
From CruisersWiki
Background
The Austral Islands (French: Îles Australes) are the southernmost group of islands in French Polynesia in the South Pacific. Geographically, they consist of two separate archipelagos, namely in the northwest the Tupua'i islands (French: Îles Tubuaï) consisting of the Îles Maria, Rimatara, Moerai, Rurutu, Mataurai, Tubuai Island proper and Raivavae, and in the southeast the Bass Islands (French: Îles Basses) composed of the main island of Rapa Iti and the small Marotiri.
Inhabitants of the islands are known for their pandanus fibre weaving skills.
The two islands in the group most visited by cruising sailors are Raivavae and Mataurai, Tubuai. Visits to Rapa are uncommon but do occur and are quite worthwhile.
Islands in the Group
- Raivavae (Port of entry)
- Moerai, Rurutu (Port of entry)
- Mataurai, Tubuai (Port of entry)
- Rapa (note that Rapa is in fact part of the Bass Islands but they are often included with the Austral Islands as a single group).
Climate & Weather
The Australs have a cooler and milder climate than most of the rest of French Polynesia. Especially in Raivavae and more so in Rapa, winter night-time temperatures can be quite cold.
Also see French Polynesia Climate & Weather
Charts
Submit details of the charts required for safe navigation of the area.
Any navigation notes here.
Local Radio Nets
Also see World Cruiser's Nets
There are no nets specific to the Austral Islands.
Arrival/Departure procedures
See French Polynesia Arrival & Departure Procedures.
Health & Security
Submit any health warnings/information and any security details here.
Ports & Popular Stops
See each island.
Suggested Circuit Through the Group
The prevailing winds through the group tend to more south-easterly than easterly, and so a route through the group might proceed as follows:
Depending on the amount of southerly component in the wind, a reach from Tubuai to Papeete in Tahiti to complete entry formalities may not be comfortable, and so a direct route from Raivavae may be chosen instead.
Stopping at Rapa will depend on the weather conditions -- strong or even moderately strong easterly winds can make the harbour and anchorage at Rapa untenable.
Cruiser's Friends
Submit details/contacts of cruiser's "friends" that can be contacted in advance or on arrival - who can offer information and assistance to our cruising "family".
References & Publications
See French Polynesia References & Publications
Links to Forum Discussions
List links to discussion threads on partnering forums. (see link for requirements)
External Links
- Austral Islands on wikipedia.
- Austral Islands on wikivoyage.
Personal Notes
Personal experiences?
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| | HOMEPAGE | Wiki Contents | South Pacific | French Polynesia | Australs | |
