Kingdom of Tonga discovery cruise / 500nm / 16 - 29 Apr 2025
13 days / cat 3 sailing expedition / Event #2527 / Silver Fern: cREW positions available
Overview
The Tongan archipelago consists of 169 Islands and just 36 are inhabited. The archipelago is spread across approximately 700,000km2 of the South Pacific Ocean. There are three main island groups, Tongatapu, Ha’Apai and Vava’u and they offer some of the best blue water sailing in the world. Steeped in history, this unspoilt Polynesian paradise is also the last constitutional monarchy in the Pacific.
Situated in the trade wind belt, Tonga combines warm weather with gentle easterly winds with sailing between the myriad of islands, reefs and secluded anchorages.
Passage plan
Event registration
Secure your place on this adventure with a 20-50% deposit / All prices in AUD
Current price release: Early Bird
Pre-release - SOLD OUT
SHARED CABIN: Early bird $7,750 pp
Final Release AUD$9,750 pp
Expedition description
Arriving in Nuku’alofa, Tonga’s capital on the main Island of Tongatapu, a short boat ride will take you to the tranquil Island of Pangaimotu, where we will be anchored for our first night, crew welcome, dinner, briefing and familiarisation.
The following morning, we will sail north toward to the Ha’Apai Island Group. Haʻapai comprises 51 islands that lie directly west of the Tonga Trench. They constitute a chain of both volcanic and coral islands, including Kao, the highest point in the kingdom, which stands 1,046 metres (3,432 ft) high. Seventeen of the islands are inhabited, including the main islands of Lifuka and Foa.
Pangaimotu Island
Pangaimotu Island is a picturesque gem located just off the coast of Tonga's capital, Nuku'alofa. This small island is renowned for its stunning sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal destination for sailors seeking relaxation and natural beauty. The island is home to the famous Big Mama’s Yacht Club, a popular spot for both locals and visitors. The waters around Pangaimotu are perfect for snorkelling, with vibrant coral reefs and a variety of marine life. The island's relaxed atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the Kingdom of Tonga by yacht.
The Ha’apai
The Ha’apai Group is a chain of islands in central Tonga, offering a blend of serene landscapes and rich history. This group of islands is less developed than other parts of Tonga, providing a peaceful retreat for sailors. The Ha’apai islands are known for their pristine beaches, clear waters, and excellent diving and snorkelling spots. The area is steeped in history, with sites related to Captain Cook’s visits and ancient Tongan culture. Sailors will appreciate the tranquillity and unspoiled beauty of the Ha’apai Group, making it a perfect destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation.
Kelefesia Island
Kelefesia Island is a remote and stunningly beautiful island in the Ha’apai Group. It is famous for its dramatic cliffs, white sandy beaches, and turquoise waters. The island is uninhabited, providing a pristine and untouched environment ideal for sailing, snorkelling, and exploring. The surrounding coral reefs are teeming with marine life, making it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts. Kelefesia's isolation and natural beauty make it a perfect escape for those looking to experience the raw beauty of the South Pacific.
Nomuka
Nomuka is part of the Nomuka Group in southern Ha’apai and offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. The island has historical significance, with remnants of an old fort and connections to early European explorers. Nomuka's beaches are inviting, and its waters are rich with marine life, making it excellent for snorkelling and diving. The island's friendly local community and serene environment provide a warm welcome to sailors exploring Tonga's diverse landscapes.
Uoleva Island
Uoleva Island is a true tropical paradise located in the Ha’apai Group. Known for its long stretches of white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Uoleva is a favourite among sailors and beach lovers. The island is largely undeveloped, preserving its natural beauty and tranquillity. Uoleva offers excellent opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, and simply relaxing in a serene setting. The island's peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery make it an ideal stop for those seeking a quiet escape.
The Vava’u Group
The Vava’u Group is a collection of islands in northern Tonga, renowned for their stunning landscapes and excellent sailing conditions. The area is famous for its protected anchorages, making it a haven for sailors. Vava’u's clear waters are perfect for diving, snorkelling, and whale watching, especially during the humpback whale migration season. The islands offer a mix of vibrant local culture, lush vegetation, and beautiful beaches. The Vava’u Group's combination of natural beauty and rich marine life makes it a premier destination for sailing enthusiasts.
The Port of Refuge
The Port of Refuge, located in Vava’u, is one of the most famous natural harbours in the South Pacific. Its deep, protected waters provide safe anchorage for yachts and boats. The harbour is surrounded by picturesque islands and offers easy access to the town of Neiafu, where sailors can enjoy local markets, restaurants, and cultural sites. The Port of Refuge is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding islands and experiencing the vibrant marine life of Vava’u.
Port Maurelle
Port Maurelle on Kapa Island in Vava’u is a stunning anchorage known for its calm waters and scenic beauty. Named after Spanish explorer Francisco Maurelle, the port offers a sheltered spot for sailors to anchor and explore. The area is perfect for snorkelling, with clear waters and abundant marine life. The island's lush greenery and pristine beaches provide a tranquil setting for relaxation and adventure. Port Maurelle’s serene environment and natural beauty make it a must-visit spot in the Vava’u Group.
Mariner's Cove
Mariner's Cove on Nuapapu Island is a picturesque and sheltered anchorage in the Vava’u Group. The cove is known for its stunning coral reefs, making it a popular spot for snorkelling and diving. The island offers beautiful beaches and lush forests, providing a perfect backdrop for exploring and relaxing. Mariner's Cove is an ideal stop for sailors looking to enjoy the natural wonders of the Vava’u islands while experiencing the warm hospitality of the local Tongan culture.
ACTIVITIES INCLUDED
Click the links above to review examples from previous sailing events across New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific Islands.
HERE’S WHAT YOU WILL EXPERIENCE ONBOARD
Sailing: Hoisting, trimming and reefing both upwind (main, genoas, and jibs) and downwind sails (poled out headsails, spinnakers, gennakers and code 0’s (subject to weather).
Watch duties: Acting as watch captain (day and night), helming, navigating, checking weather and monitoring AIS and radar and for both traffic and rain squalls.
Weather: Downloading and analysing the latest weather forecasts and calculating best route to destination.
Navigation: Navigating, hazard identification, entering waypoints and calculating updated ETA’s.
Leadership: Watch roster planning, matching responsibility to experience, crew management and communication.
Safety: Familiarisation of all safety procedures, sail planning, storm preparation planning and abandon ship procedures.
Training: Use of PDF’s (Personal Flotation Devices), PLB’s (Personal Locator Beacons), safety tethers, dan buoy’s, storm drogue, liferaft and any other equipment required to ensure you remain safe in all conditions.
Personal wellbeing: Advice on how to take responsibility for managing clothing, hydration, sleep and nutrition to maintain your health and well being aboard.
Passage planning: Planning our arrival and route to safe harbour including timing with daylight (if required), weather factors, navigational hazards, communications / customs and sail/motor arrival plan.
Click the links above to review examples from previous sailing events across New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific Islands.
Weather impact
With any regatta or expedition we have to plan around the weather. We always aim to plan our events to coincide with the optimum time of the year, for the best conditions. Safety and comfort of the crew and vessel, always takes priority over the original schedule. Sometimes we’ll need to adapt the schedule and modify plans, to maximise the onboard experience and enjoyment to keep everyone happy and safe.
Extra reading
itinerary
You can fly directly into Fuaʻamotu International Airport, Tonga on or before the 16th of April 2025. A short boat ride will take you to the tranquil Island of Pangaimotu where we will be anchored for our first night and you will join us for a crew dinner onboard.
When you arrive we'll familiarise you with the yacht, systems and safety equipment. Our crew will reassemble on the 17th of April at Pangaimotu and we will aim to depart (subject to weather) around midday and sail north toward to the Ha’Apai Island Group. You are welcome to stay onboard from the date you arrive, but if you plan to arrive prior to 16th of April , you may need to arrange accommodation ashore.
The goal is to circumnavigate the Ha’Apai and Vava’u Island Groups over the following 11 days, stopping daily at selected bays, attractions and islands en-route. We will aim to sail back into Pangaimotu on the 28th of April and you can stay onboard on before departing out of Fuaʻamotu International Airport, Tonga on the 29th of April.
Arrive at the vessel in Tonga by 4pm on 16/4/25
Crew welcome dinner on 16/4/25
Crew training and safety familiarisation 17/4/25
Depart Pangaimotu Marina around 12pm on 17/4/25
Arrive back in Pangaimotu by 3pm on 28/4/25
Crew farewell dinner on 28/4/25
Depart Pangaimotu on 29/4/25
Inclusions
Your crew package includes; all meals onboard, crew meals in Tonga and various stopover ports, accommodation onboard, your Ocean Sailing Expeditions crew shirt, marina fees, the use of a PFD (personal flotation device), PLB (personal locator beacon), and a safety tether. Your bedding, a pillow and towel are also included along with suncream.
Exclusions
Your crew package excludes; accommodation ashore, flights and transport to and from departure and arrival ports, alcohol, toiletries, clothing and wet weather gear.
Its always recommended that you book flights with date flexibility incase of unforeseen changes due to weather or schedules. Accommodation options if you want to stay ashore either side of trip: AirBNB, Booking.com, Wotif & HomeAway.
Review sailing calendar for all events