Vava'u Tonga is a the perfect place for a sailing charter

Yacht Sailing in Vava'u Island, Tonga

The Kingdom of Tonga consists of about 170 islands divided into four main island groups ranging over an area from 15 to 23 degrees south latitude, and 173 to 177 degrees west longitude, situated 1200 miles north of New Zealand and just west of the international dateline. In this age of political volatility, Tonga remains a safe haven, far off the beaten track, with a popular 200 year old constitutional monarchy, the only Polynesian country never to have been colonised. It is a proud independent nation with a rich cultural history, maintaining customs and traditions while embracing Christianity. Tongans love to sing and Sunday mornings the air is filled with the voluminous sound of enthusiastic choirs. The shy, gentle, dignity of the handsome people of Tonga reflects a refreshing feeling of timelessness, in their easy, friendly smiles. Laughing seems to be the national pastime.

The Vava’u island group, where we offer our sailing charter, is situated approximately 240 kilometers north of Tongatapu. There are about 40 islands in an area 23 by 25 kilometres, which is protected by a semi-circular reef. The Southeast tradewinds provide excellent yacht sailing, while the surrounding reef protects the open waters from ocean swell. Most of the islands we visit are uninhabited and we are the only visitors. Vava’u is still a relatively untouristed South Pacific Travel destination. Villagers are shy, but quite welcoming if we decide to visit, and a Tongan Feast in Vava’u is local, family oriented and charmingly unprofessional.

Climate on your tropical vacation

Tonga is slightly cooler than most tropical areas, with an annual average temperature of 23C / 77F. The average daytime high temperature hovers around 25-26C (77-80F) from May through September It rises to 29C (85F) October through April and the humidity is highest in January and February. The average sea temperature is 25C (79F). SE trade winds (15-25 knots) predominate during the Austral winter (May-Sept). In summer, breezes are lighter (10-20 knots) and more often from the NE. From November through June; the water is warmer and better for swimming and snorkeling and you will have most anchorages to yourselves.

Sailing charter in Vava'u

Sailing in Vava’u is especially rewarding for those who seek a remote unspoiled paradise, combining trade-winds sailing with crystal clear sheltered water.Each day we can visit a different island in the Vava’u group, or on longer trips it is sometimes preferable to stay 2 nights in an anchorage and explore several snorkeling spots. Most of the islands we visit are uninhabited with white sand beaches and interesting reefs for snorkeling. We can also visit an island with a Tongan village and attend a Tongan feast, where the food is authentic and delicious, and the local children perform traditional Tongan dances. You may want to take one or more dinners onshore at one of the very small and interesting resorts in the outer islands.

Things to buy in Vava'u

Traditional handicrafts are making a revival in Tonga with local carvers copying traditional designs. Mats and baskets are of especially high quality, mats can be soft as cloth and baskets are sturdy and beautiful. Grade A quality vanilla beans are available at the market.