Lifuka
From CruisersWiki
Seacruiser (Talk | contribs) (→Lifuka, Tonga) |
Peter McHugh (Talk | contribs) m (Reverted edits by Seacruiser (talk) to last revision by Istioploos) |
||
| Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
==Lifuka, Tonga== | ==Lifuka, Tonga== | ||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
| - | |||
{| class="infobox bordered" style="width: 28em; text-align: left; font-size: 90%;" | {| class="infobox bordered" style="width: 28em; text-align: left; font-size: 90%;" | ||
|- | |- | ||
Revision as of 08:07, 3 September 2013
Lifuka, Tonga
 (Click links for more information)
| |
 | 19°48.38′S, 174°21.11′W |
|---|---|
 | Photo gallery |
 | Local chartlet |
Click for larger view
The Ha'apai group in Tonga should not be missed. Although more challenging than the waters of Vava'u, one can be assured of uncrowded, pristine anchorages with great snorkelling, diving and beaches.
Humpback whales visit the Ha'apai group from July to October and there are strict regulations in place for the protection of the animals. Most importantly only licensed operators may approach a whale any closer than 300 meters and only a licensed operator may place swimmers in the water with the whales. Visiting yachts should adopt a precautionary approach around the whales and only attempt approaching or swimming with them through a locally licensed operator.
Charts
Submit the chart details that are required for safe navigation.
Radio Nets
Also see Cruiser's Nets
Submit details of local radio Nets.
- Fins 'n' Flukes call sign Malolo are available on channel 16.
- Approaching Lifuka Island and Pangai Harbour from the North keep the first large marker to your port side and give it a wide berth. Keep the following two taller markers to your starboard side. Lights may not be functioning. The harbour approach and entrance is very wide and easy with an average depth of eight meters. Once in the harbour it is possible to come stern to on the big red bollards. The harbour is a soft mud anchorage with poor holding. Be careful when you come in on the tender as the harbour steps are as slippery as an eel. The main wharf is used for loading and unloading by local vessels all day long, do not block the loading areas, adjacent to the steps, with your tender.
Check-in facilities
Clearing in and out of Ha'apai is required. Customs, Ministry of Health and MAFF officials will need to inspect your vessel. There are associated fees which are more expensive if the officials go outside the harbor to your boat. The customs office is in town beside the post office.
- Fins 'n' Flukes - call sign (Malolo) on VHF 16 if you need directions or information.
- Pangai For chartlets of the approaches to Pangai harbour please see Mariner's Cafe and/or call Mariner's Cafe on VHF Ch 16 for any info.
Marinas & Yacht Clubs
Submit Marina details.
Anchorages
List details of all safe anchorages in the area.
Offshore Islands
List Islands
- Ofolanga, Mounga'one, Kao, Tofua, Ha'anno, Nukunamo, Uoleva, Tatafa, Hakauata, Luangahu, Lofanga, Uiha
Routes/Passages To/From
Popular passages/routes, timing, etc.
- Lifuka, Luahoko, Ha'anno (Mushroom Rock).
- Lifuka, Uoleva, Uiha
Tourism & things to do ashore
List places of interest, tours, eateries, etc.
- Fins 'n' Flukes offer scuba diving, snorkeling, Humpback Whale watching, PADI diving courses, bicycle hire, tank fills (must be in hydro), Wi-Fi internet, postcards, general info and advice.
Fuel, Water, & Electricity
- Petrol, Diesel and 2 stroke oil are normally available but fuels may be of poor quality with high water content.
Garbage Disposal
- Ha'apai has no waste management system in place, you'll have to take out what you bring in. Waste can be better dealt with in Nuku'alofa. Free roaming pigs and dogs will rip apart rubbish bags left sitting anywhere and the garbage is then blown into the sea. Your full rubbish bags should not be dumped around town under any circumstances. There are red litter bins around town but these are usually already full so pretty useless.
Laundry
- No service available.
Grocery Stores
- Local stores provide an assortment of tinned, frozen and preserved goods. Variety is severly limited and fresh produce is rare. The market opens early and may have bannanas, Papaya and Water Melon. The Chinese run stores have the most stuff and are cheaper than Tongan outlets as they buy from the Chinese to re sell.
Eateries
- The Talahiva Restaurant offers BBQ, Kentucky Chicken, Chicke Nugggets, Fish Nuggets and Curry served with either local root crops or chips. Five dollars sees massive Tongan portions in return.
Motorbike & Car Rentals
- Push bikes can be hired from Fins 'n' Flukes
Marine Stores & Facilities
Submit addresses and contact details of marine related businesses that are of interest to cruisers.
- There are no chandlery stores in Ha'apai and even the most basic tools or hardware are usually unavailable. PTH in Nuku'alofa or Vava'u is your best shot. Be prepared for shocking price tags though.
Repairs
- DIY only.
Transportation
Transportation to mainland or other countries, etc.
References & Publications
Publications, Guides, etc.
Cruiser's Friends
Contact details of "Cruiser's Friends" that can be contacted for local information or assistance.
- Fins 'n' Flukes can be contacted on channel 16 callsign "Malolo" or by phone on 00 676 8870141.
Forum Discussions
List links to discussion threads on partnering forums. (see link for requirements)
External Links
Links to relevant websites.
- Fins 'n' Flukes - Diving and Whale Watching, Lifuka Island, Ha'apai, Tonga.
Personal Notes
Personal experiences?
- Deserted beaches everywhere and beautiful hard coral reefs.
|
|---|
|
Names: |
| |
|---|
| | HOMEPAGE | Wiki Contents | South Pacific | Tonga | Ha'apai | Lifuka | |
