Tonga
Oceanic Pacific: an independent kingdom, humpback whales and 141 islands
Overview
Tonga is, and always has been, an independent kingdom, with His Majesty the King reigning over the 141 islands of the Tongan Archipelago, of which fewer than 40 are inhabited. Along with the sugar-sand beaches and gently waving palm trees, Tonga is renowned as a humpback whale breeding ground, and offers some of the best and most varied diving in the Pacific.
Tourism is growing, though it still has some way to go, and a number of boat-related and superyacht service companies operate in the capital, Nuku'alofa. Tonga has great potential to boom, and a visit here now would be a very good idea.
The best cruising is from May to October; the cyclone season runs from November to May. Note the dangerous Metis Shoal, with active volcanoes, on the passage towards Fiji.
Islands & Map
Map Key - Ports & Groups
- Nuku'alofa (Tongatapu); VHF 14/16/12
- Neiafu (Vava'u); VHF 26
- Pangai (Lifuka, Ha'apai)
✈ Fua'amotu International Airport
Whale-watching in Vava'u. Danger: Metis Shoal (active volcanoes) on the route to Fiji.
Getting There & Clearance
Clearance
Clearance is handled by the immigration service, the Ministry of Revenue & Customs and the Ministry of Marine and Ports. The ports of entry are Nuku'alofa Harbour (VHF 14/16/12), Neiafu in Vava'u (VHF 26) and Niuafo'ou.
Government Contacts
Immigration: mic.gov.to
Customs: revenue.gov.to
International Airports
Fua'amotu International (Tongatapu) · Eua Kaufana.
Key Anchorages
Faua Harbour & Pangaimotu (Nuku'alofa) · Neiafu (Vava'u) · Lifuka (Ha'apai).
Local Services
Agents
Yacht Help Tonga · Superyacht Services Tonga
Charter & Moorings
Tonga Sailing
Diving
Beluga Diving (Vava'u)
Cruising
Vava'u & Ha'apai groups
Wildlife
Humpback whale season
Ashore
Nuku'alofa
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do superyachts clear in to Tonga?
The ports of entry are Nuku'alofa Harbour on Tongatapu (VHF 14/16/12), Neiafu in Vava'u (VHF 26) and Niuafo'ou, handled by the immigration service, the Ministry of Revenue and Customs and the Ministry of Marine and Ports.
When is the best time to cruise Tonga?
The best cruising is from May to October. The cyclone season runs from November to May and is best avoided.
Is Tonga good for whale watching?
Yes. Tonga is renowned as a humpback whale breeding ground, particularly around the Vava'u group, and offers some of the best and most varied diving in the Pacific.
Are there any navigational dangers in Tonga?
Yes. The Metis Shoal, with active volcanoes, lies on the passage between Tonga and Fiji and should be given a wide berth.