Tonga

Country

Kingdom of Tonga

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Visited by

Blue Planet Odyssey

Description & main attractions

The Kingdom of Tonga, situated in the heart of the South Pacific, consists of over 160 coral and volcanic islands, of which only 36 are inhabited.

Best known among sailors is the northern group of Vava’u, whose maze of islets and reefs provides one of the best cruising grounds in the South Pacific. Vava’u has been a favourite cruising destination for a long time. The unique potential of its sheltered waters was recognized as far back as the 1970s when South Pacific Yacht Charters opened the first charter operation in the South Pacific.

There are about one hundred islands of all sizes, sprinkled with sandy beaches, underwater caves and plenty of protected anchorages. The entire area provides an excellent opportunity for sailing in sheltered areas, its tranquil waters being the favourite destination not only of cruising yachts, but also of some travellers of a very different kind.

Scores of humpback whales gather here in winter to breed and it is a great thrill to watch these gentle giants and their offspring swim slowly by, and an even greater thrill to swim in their company.

The strategic location of Vava’u at the crossroads of several sailing routes, as well as the reputation of the main anchorage, Refuge Harbour, as a safe hurricane hole, has turned it into a busy yachting centre.

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