TONGA

FLEET UPDATE 2023-08-20

 

South Pacifc Posse '23

 

    "Storms don't come to teach us painful lessons, rather they were meant to wash us clean."

- Shannon L. Alder


   SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE FLEET UPDATE 

2023-AUGUST-20

14 Ensigns
South Pacific Posse Gatherings

 
2+ SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE BOATS EQUAL A PARTY 

TOP NEWS

  • SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE PARTY
  • THE OCEAN POSSE 🐙 CALENDAR 
  • PICTURES OF THE WEEK
  • SAVUSAVU 🇫🇯  NAWI ISLAND MARINA LAUNCHED 
  • MUSKET 🇫🇯  COVE FIJI
  • NEIAFU VAVA'U 🇹🇴 TONGA
  • BLACKBIRDING 
  • ELECTRICAL BOAT HOW TO  
  • THE BANK ISLAND 🇻🇺 VANUATU  
  • THE PASSAGE TO NEW ZEALAND 
  • CLOUD NINE 🇫🇯 FIJI 
  • FLEET TRACKING FOR PARTICIPANTS  
  • CORRUPTION ALERT ⚠️ AMERICAN SAMOA 🇦🇸
  • GOOD NAUTICAL  
  • HISTORIC PORTS ⚓LAHAINA HAWAI'I

1) SOUTH PACIFC POSSE PARTY 
NAWI ISLAND 🇫🇯 FIJI

 

Monoriki

 

 16° 46.5716' S  179° 19.9533' E -  Nawi Island Savusavu 🇫🇯 Fiji

 

RSVP NOW
AUG 26 2023
 

 

NAWI ISLAND

 

All yachts are welcome - simply RSVP to get on the list >>

2)  SEMINARS,  EVENTS  MEETUPS FOR ALL  
THE OCEANPOSSE 🐙 CALENDAR 
  

join the fleet
 

https://oceanposse.com/calendar/

 

3)   PICTURES OF THE WEEK

Jack Iron

SY JACK IRON  🇺🇸   Kent & Michele - Valiant 42′

JACK IRON KentJACK IRON Michelle

 HUAHINE  🇵🇫 FP

Giant anemone (folded up) and purple coral.

Huahine was our last stop in French Polynesia, and one of our favorites.  
Giant anemone (folded up) and purple coral.

SY FIRST LIGHT  🇺🇸 Don & Julie  -  Hallberg Rassy 39′

FIRST LIGHT DonFIRST LIGHT Julie

4) SAVUSAVU 🇫🇯  NAWI ISLAND MARINA LAUNCHED 

A very nice place to stay with lot of place.

For the people who wants to know about Nawi Marina in Savusavu. 

A very nice place to stay with lot of place.

The Marina is done at about 70%  completed 

The Marina is done at about 70% but no possibility to haul out a boat and no specific technical services

It's
just a marvelous place to stay very friendly people there and the
restaurant has a very good kitchen, but no possibility to haul out a
boat and no specific technical services 

The pool is not ready just the restaurant, the bar, toilets and laundry are done. But it is very well done and nice here.

SY KAWAINE II  🇨🇭   Jean-Dominique & Guylène  - C.M.P.F. – Fecamp 42′

KAWAINE II Jean-DominiqueKAWAINE II Guylène
 

 NAWI ISLAND 🇫🇯 SPONSORS THE SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE 16° 46.566’S 179° 20.1’E BULA ! Nawi Marina is proud to sponsor the South Pacific Posse with discounted rates! NAWI ISLAND LOGO Idyllically located in the spectacular Savusavu Harbour, a port of entry to Fiji, the Nawi Island Marina welcomes the international yachting community with its 132 modern slips, providing safe and secure berths for monohull yachts, catamarans and superyachts. World Class Marina facilities, currently under development, will include a yacht club and extensive service facilities. Access to and from Nawi Island is simple and convenient, with Savusavu town nearby and Savusavu Airport just 10 minutes away. Nawi-Island-Marina AMENITIES & SERVICES MARINA 132 fully serviced berths 21 dedicated superyacht berths for vessels up to 85m 2m to 5.4m draft at mean sea level (msl). 16amps 3 phase from April 2023 and this will increase up to 250-300amps 3 phase from Dec 2023 Fresh Water, Fuel & Gas facilities Sewer pump out facility by June 2023 Garbage Disposal services High speed wireless internet 24/7 cctv security services with controlled marina gate access Restaurant & Bar Harbour Master Building Yacht Agency and authority clearance services Chandlery Grocery Store Restrooms, showers & laundry ATM Retail & Kiosk services BALAGA BOATYARD FACILITIES * Cyclone pits and storage bays Maintenance Shed & Back of House Area Haul out facility (75tonne) Boat ramp Fueling pontoon Wash Bay Engineering and welding workshop Paint and antifouling workshop Open maintenance areas for catamarans Office, restroom and outdoor lounge area with parking *BALAGA BOATYARD FACILITIES (under construction – to be completed by Dec 2023) CONTACT E: marketing@nawiisland.com P: +679 893 1082 W: nawiisland.com FB: facebook.com/nawiisland I: https://www.instagram.com/nawi.island A: PO Box 101, Lot 12, Nawi Island, Savusavu, Vanua Levu, Fiji Islands NAWI ISLAND MARINA RATES FJD x Meter x Day Meters / Feet MONOHULL FJD x Meter x Day MULTIHULL FJD x Meter x Day < 20 / 66 4.37 8.60 ≥ 20 / 66 8.60 8.60 ≥ 30 / 98 11.55 23.00 ≥ 50 / 164 17.35 ≥ 70 / 230 20.90 ≥ 85 / 279 24.00 Live Aboard Rate 7.50 per day Electricity Metered Water Included in Berth Fee -but please conserve * All rates are per lineal meter defined by LOA (other than Moorings) * All prices inclusive of 9% Government Taxes * All berthing to be paid in advance * Free WIFI included in berthing – conditions apply * Other marina services will have separate fees & charges SAFE APPROACH TO NAWI ISLAND MARINA + − 500 m 2000 ft goodnautical.com for pananaposse LOCATION OFFICIAL WEBSITE >> NAWI ISLAND MARINA OFFICIAL WEBSITE LINK

 

NAWI ISLAND MARINA 🇫🇯  16° 46.566’S 179° 20.1’E
SPONSORS THE SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE

 

5) MUSKET 🇫🇯  COVE FIJI

Good night Musket Cove

Good night Musket Cove

SY SEAGLUB  🇺🇸 Chris - Hylas 46′

SEAGLUB Chris
MUSKET COVE FIJI

Musket
Cove stands as a haven for true seafaring aficionados. It's one of the
magnetic ports and therefore hard to get out of.  Everyone is
welcome. The discounts extended to the Pacific Posse  rally
participants are not just a gesture of benevolence, but a salute to the
shared devotion to life on the water—a nod that It acknowledges the call
of the open sea running through our veins. 

 

MUSKET COVE FIJI

 

6) NEIAFU VAVA'U 🇹🇴 TONGA

A rare sight in Tonga. Completely calm waters

A rare sight in Tonga. Completely calm waters

SY CATWEAZLE  🇬🇧 Harriet & Russell - Allures 45′

CATWEAZLECATWEAZLE

Vava'u,
a picturesque island group within the Kingdom of Tonga, stands as a
serene haven for small yachts . Nestled in the northern part of Tonga
the  Vava'u archipelago boasts a unique blend of natural beauty,
welcoming local culture, and inviting waters that welcomes sailors from
around the world. This maze like  destination offers a myriad of
anchorages for small yachts to explore its cruising grounds.

Vava'u Tonga

Vava'u's
charm lies in its breathtaking landscapes, where lush green hills meet
cerulean waters, creating a stunning backdrop for sailing adventures.
The island group encompasses numerous sheltered anchorages, secluded
coves, and pristine beaches. Most anchorages provide a calm sanctuary,
offering a tranquil refuge for sailors to drop anchor, unwind, and
immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

 

 

The
archipelago is renowned for its vibrant underwater world, making it a
paradise for snorkelers and divers alike. Beneath the surface, coral
reefs burst with life, showcasing an intricate tapestry of colors and
marine species. Small yachts can anchor near snorkeling and diving
hotspots, offering easy access to this underwater wonderland teeming
with tropical fish, vibrant corals, and even the chance to swim
alongside majestic humpback whales during the annual migration season.

 The
warmth of the Tongan culture is an integral part of the Vava'u
experience. The locals, known for their genuine hospitality, greet
sailors with open arms. Visiting the local villages is an opportunity to
engage in cultural exchanges, learn traditional customs, and savor
Tongan cuisine. The Tongan people's genuine smiles and warm interactions
create an enriching experience that leaves an indelible mark on the
hearts of visiting sailors.

Mango Cafe

Mango Cafe & dinghy dock 

Community and Camaraderie:

The
small yachting community that gravitates toward Vava'u fosters a strong
sense of camaraderie among fellow sailors. Small businesses in the area
provide essential amenities and opportunities to connect with other
adventurers. The exchange of stories, tips, and experiences adds to the
allure of Vava'u as a place where friendships are forged and shared
passions are celebrated.

In
essence, Vava'u encapsulates the essence of a quintessential yachting
paradise. Its azure waters, captivating landscapes, hospitable locals,
and vibrant marine life converge to create an idyllic haven for small
yachts. Every voyage through its cruising grounds reveals new wonders,
ensuring that sailors leave with cherished memories and a longing to
return to the tranquil embrace of Vava'u, Tonga.

 

Neiafu Harbor

 

7)  BLACKBIRDING 

Kanaka workers in a sugar cane plantation in Queensland, late 19th century.

 Kanaka workers in a sugar cane plantation in Queensland, late 19th century.

The practice of "blackbirding"
in the mid to late 1800s in the South Pacific refers to the recruitment
of coerced labor of Pacific Islanders, primarily from Melanesia and
Polynesia, to work on plantations in other parts of the world. It was
driven by the demand for cheap labor to work on sugar cane, cotton, and
other agricultural plantations.

Para (ship) South Sea Islanders, recruited for the Queensland cane fields, being carried in boats to the Para. (Descriptions supplied with photograph). The English artist who produced this drawing, William Twizell Wawn, captained ships between 1875 and 1891.

Para (ship) South Sea Islanders, recruited for the Queensland cane fields, being carried in boats to the Para. 
William Twizell Wawn, captained ships between 1875 and 1891. 

The
demand for labor during the 4 year US Civil War lead to an increase in
the practice of black birding. The war and subsequent union victory and
end of slavery meant a continued  need for labor on plantations to
produce cotton and sugar cane. This resulted in an intensified
recruitment of Pacific Islanders through blackbirding to meet the offshore labor needs.

these exploitative labour market practices in the sugar industry started in 1863 – almost 60 years after Britain and the United States had made slave trading illegal.

Exploitative
labor market practices in the sugar industry started in 1863 – almost
60 years after Britain and the United States had made slave trading
illegal.

Tens
of thousands of Pacific Island laborers were brought to Australia from
neighboring Melanesian and Polynesian islands.  In particularly
Queensland, during the late 19th century used these indentured laborers
for work on sugarcane plantations. Estimates suggest around 60,000 to
80,000 humans were involved.

Fiji
was another major destination and saw a significant influx of
blackbirded laborers, with estimates ranging from 60,000 to 70,000
individuals. The sugarcane industry in Fiji heavily relied on coerced
labor.

The deportations began in 1906 and continued until 1908. More than 7500 South Sea Islanders were returned to their home country, though some had arrived in Australia at such a young age they would have had no memory of it. About 2500 Pacific Islanders stayed in Australia.

In
Australia and other colonial powers involved in black birding,
legislative measures were introduced to regulate and eventually restrict
the recruitment of labor from Pacific Island nations. These measures
aimed to improve labor conditions and protect the rights of indigenous
populations. The practices associated with blackbirding were
increasingly criticized by humanitarian and human rights advocates
internationally. Reports of abuse, mistreatment, and exploitation of
laborers led to growing pressure on countries involved in the practice
to address these concerns. In various regions, including Australia and
Fiji, labor reforms were introduced to address the unethical practices
associated with blackbirding. The goal was to ensure fair treatment,
appropriate wages, and better working conditions for laborers.
Indigenous communities in affected regions began advocating for their
rights and raising awareness about the mistreatment and exploitation
they faced due to blackbirding. Their efforts contributed to increased
attention on the issue and the need for change. As economies evolved and
industries changed, the demand for labor through blackbirding
diminished. Economic factors, coupled with increased awareness of
ethical concerns, contributed to the decline of the practice. By the
early 20th century, blackbirding had largely faded as a widespread
practice due to a combination of the factors mentioned above. Many
countries introduced laws and reforms to prevent the recruitment of
labor through coercion and deception. While the formal abolition of
blackbirding marked an important step in ending the exploitative
practices, it's important to recognize that the legacy of blackbirding
continues to impact affected communities to this day. The efforts to
remember this history, address its consequences, and promote awareness
of human rights and social justice continue in the affected regions.

bundaberg 1895

The deportations  began
in 1906 and continued until 1908. More than 7,500 South Sea Islanders
were returned to their home country, though some had arrived in
Australia at such a young age they would have had no memory of their
exact origin.  Indenture ceased in Fiji in 1911.

SUGRA PRICE HISTORY.

200+ years of sugar pricing 

The official Australian South Sea Islander flag initially designed in consultation with the ASSI community. The flag was formally adopted in 1998 by ASSIUC. The colour scheme incorporates colours resonant to people with forebears of which the three quarters of the trade were taken from the 83 islands of Vanuatu and are represented through colours green, gold and black, a third of the trade was from the Solomon Islands represented with blue, white, green. The overall flag is inclusive other parts of the South Pacific affected by Blackbirding as we are connected through the ocean blue and white stars.

The
official Australian South Sea Islander flag initially designed in
consultation with the ASSI community. The flag was formally adopted in
1998. The color scheme incorporates colors resonant to people with
forebears of which the three quarters of the trade were taken from the
83 islands of Vanuatu and are represented through colors green, gold and
black, a third of the trade was from the Solomon Islands represented
with blue, white, green. The overall flag is inclusive other parts of
the South Pacific affected by Blackbirding as we are connected through
the ocean blue and white stars.

8) ELECTRICAL BOAT HOW TO  

 

https://oceanposse.com/events/boat-how-to-ocean-posse-seminar-sat-sep-2-2023/

 

SAT Sept 2 - we have a zoominar with Nigel Calder introducing BOATHOWTO

BOAT HOW TO & OCEAN POSSE SEMINAR – SAT SEP 2 2023

We are please to announce an introduction to BOAT HOW TO and their most comprehensive online learning   system.

This ZOOM introduction is hosted by NIGEL CALDER

INTRODUCTIONS TO THE FOLLOWING YACHT ELECTRICAL SYSTEM TOPICS

  •     Properly sizing conductors ( q&a )
  •     Making reliable connections ( q&a )
  •     Batteries The Charging System  ( q&a )
  •     Best practices of monitoring and improving your electrical system ( q&a )
  •     Adding appropriate over current protection ( q&a )
  •     Check before you head out ( q&a )
  •     Simple troubleshooting techniques ( q&a )
  •     Emergency repairs, parts and tools ( q&a )
  •     Back Up system ( q&a )

TIME

Sat Sept 2 @ 7 AM Pacific Time 10 AM Eastern Time 4 PM Spain - follow the link above to the zoom link 

  https://oceanposse.com/events/boat-how-to-ocean-posse-seminar-sat-sep-2-2023/

Nigel’s Story

 

Nigel
got into motorcycles and sailing dinghies as a teenager, and has never
been far from mechanical things and boats ever since. He has a BA in
Philosophy from Exeter University (UK) and an MSc in Operations Research
from Sussex University. In a varied career, before becoming a full-time
sailing writer, with a focus on marine technical systems, he worked on
automotive assembly lines, in foundries and machine shops, and on
offshore oil production platforms.

He
and his wife, Terrie, built a couple of 70-foot canal boats (on which
they lived in England), and a 39-foot Ingrid cutter. They then sailed a
Pacific Seacraft 40 for 5 years, following which they had a Malo 45
built in Sweden. This was sold to be replaced by the same boat but with
an experimental electrical distribution and propulsion system.

It
has been used for extensive testing of cutting edge systems, including a
4-year European Union funded project (HyMar), of which Nigel was the
Technical Director, investigating the applicability of hybrid
technologies to marine propulsion systems. Based on data collected
during the HyMar project, Nigel initiated, and was a lead developer in, a
multi-year project resulting in the award-winning advanced generator
technology now sold under the Integrel brand name.

Nigel
and Terrie have sailed in the North Sea, the Atlantic as far north as
the Faroe Islands and as far south as Portugal, the U.S. east coast, the
Bahamas and extensively in the Caribbean, with Pippin (now aged 37) and
Paul (36) augmenting the crew along the way. In addition to his books
on boat systems and hundreds of magazine articles, he has also authored a
‘Cruising Guide to the Northwest Caribbean’, ‘Cuba: A Cruising Guide’,
‘Nigel Calder’s Cruising Handbook: a Compendium for Coastal and Offshore
Sailors’ and ‘How to Read a Nautical Chart’. He recently released a
memoir of his family’s first long cruise titled ‘Shakedown Cruise’.

Nigel
is currently the Technical Editor and/or Associate Editor of
PassageMaker, Professional Boatbuilder, Sail, and Ocean Navigator
magazines and a consultant on marine energy issues. He has recently
joined marine energy systems company OceanPlanet Energy as a mechanism
to continue his passion for constantly improving boat electrical
systems.

Nigel
is a 30-year veteran of the American Boat and Yacht Council’s
Electrical Project Technical Committee, which writes the U.S. standards
for recreational boat electrical systems, and a founder member of
www.BoatHowTo.com, the online marine technical education site which is
at the heart of today’s discussion.’

Dr. Jan C. Athenstädt

Jan
runs KlabauterKiste, the German online magazine for boatowners and
Klabauter-Shop, an online shop for boat electrics as well as
BootsBastler.org, a German online community for people who love “messing
about in boats”.

He holds a PhD in computer science and loves to teach people new skills.

ver since he set foot on his grandfather’s boat as a child, Jan has been dreaming of sailing around the world.

During
his studies in computer science, he has worked as a deckhand and bosun
on tall ships such as the Schooner Zodiac and the Bark Europa, sailing
well over 10,000 miles on the world’s oceans and making it all the way
down to Antarctica. In recent years, he has been responsible for
rewiring and maintaining the technical systems on various yachts, such
as the research vessel Aldebaran.

Jan
holds a PhD from Konstanz University and a master’s degree from
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology. (Both in Computer Science, but for
his PhD he worked with archaeologists in the Caribbean, using network
science to reconstruct pre-Columbian voyages.) He also studied for a
year at the University of Washington in Seattle on a Fulbright grant,
which gave him the opportunity to explore the beautiful Pacific
Northwest and British Columbia.

When
he bought his Laurin32 Ahora in north Germany to prepare it for
extensive cruising, he noticed that there is very little reliable
information on the internet about boat electrics and mechanics. So he
started the German online magazine KlabauterKiste where he publishes
technical advice as well as stories about boatbuilding and refit
projects.

In
order to help boatowners acquire supplies for their rewiring projects,
he started his online store Klabauter-Shop, where people can order
everything from a simple cable lug to a high end radar system. 

9) THE BANK ISLAND 🇻🇺 VANUATU  

the banks vanuatu torba province

The Banks Islands (in Bislama Bankis)
are a group of islands in northern Vanuatu. Together with the Torres
Islands to their northwest, they make up the northernmost province of
Torba.  

Entracne to Ureparapara

To
the east of these larger islands lie a number of smaller ones. The
furthest north of them 31 mi  northeast of Ureparapara, is Vet
Tagde (also known as Vot Tande or Vot Ganai), which is an extinct
volcano that last erupted 3.5 million years ago.   Ureparapara (also known as Parapara means  "full of slopes"  ), is an old volcanic cone that has been breached by the sea, forming a bay, known as Divers Bay, on its east coast.

 Ureparapara entrance

 Ureparapara Entrance 

Anchored in Dives Bay

Anchored in Dives bay Ureparapara 

ROWA

Other small islands in this eastern chain in the Banks Island group include the Rowa Islands
(also called the Reef Islands), which are a few very small, low islands
on a coral atoll and are unihabited. Mota Lava is the largest and
highest (411 m) of this eastern chain of islands; off its southern
coast, attached by high corals that can be waded through at low tide, is
the tiny islet of Ra. The islands of Mota, Merig, and Merelava complete
the southeastern part of the archipelago.

GAUA

The
largest island is Gaua (formerly called Santa Maria), which has a
rugged terrain, rising to Mount Gharat, an active volcano at the centre
of the island, at 797 m (2,615 ft). Gaua's freshwater Lake Letas, in its
volcanic crater, is the largest lake in Vanuatu. A slightly smaller
island in the group, Vanua Lava, is higher, at 946 m (3,104 ft); it too
has an active volcano: Mount Suretamate (also spelled Süretimiat or
Sere'ama, 921 m (3,022 ft)). To the east of Vanua Lava are two islets in
the groupo, Ravenga and Kwakea (also spelled Qakea). Sola, the
provincial capital, is on Vanua Lava. 

SY CARINTHIA '09  

     

10) THE PASSAGE TO NEW ZEALAND 

ZOOM WEBINAR SEP 30 2023

Should I stay or should I go ?

 

https://oceanposse.com/events/the-passage-to-new-zealand-presented-by-ocean-tactics/

 

YOUR PASSAGE TO NEW ZEALAND 
presented by  John Martin from Ocean Tactics

JOHN MARTIN
 

South Pacific Posse

 


SEASON '24 SIGN UP STARTS IN DECEMBER 

11) CLOUD NINE 🇫🇯 FIJI
SPONSORS THE SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE

 

CLOUD 9

 

CLOUD 9 🇫🇯 FIJI

12) SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE  
🏆 
AWARD CATEGORIES 

  • BIGGEST FISH CAUGHT ✔ 
  • PICTURE OF THE YEAR ✔  
  • PACIFIC POSSE YODA OF THE YEAR ✔  
  • THE CAPTAIN RON AWARD ✔
  • MOST UNWELCOME VISITOR ONBOARD ✔ 
  • HIGHEST WIND RECORDED ✔ 
  • SPIRIT OF EXPLORATION ✔ 
  • GALLEY GOD(ESS) ✔ 
  • SPEEDY AWARD
  • GOOD SAMARITAN OF THE YEAR ✔  
  • BOAT YOGA POSE OF THE YEAR ✔
  • COURAGE AWARD 

Burgee Back

South Pacific Posse '23 BUrgee Front

13)  "AND THEY ARE UNDERWAY"
 FLEET TRACKING FOR PARTICIPANTS  
 

 

Tracking

 

 About Tracking:

Designed to give interesting parties  an overview. For specific vessel details including their float plan,
latest updates, changes, positions and specific location related
questions please contact each vessel directly.  If you are on
passage let us know and the fleet can monitor your progress.

https://pacificposse.com/add-to-tracking

14) CORRUPTION ALERT ⚠️ AMERICAN SAMOA 🇦🇸

AMERICAN SAMOA - an  unincorporated US TERRITORY FEATURES SOME CORRUPT OFFICIALS AS REPORTED BY SEVERAL VESSELS 

While
currently these "facilitation fees" without receipts  are
relatively small this sets a dangerous precedence and we plan on
reaching out to law enforcement. Corruption is usually the first step in
a bureaucrats downfall. It's ok to offer officials some food or non
alcoholic beverages upon clearing in  paying under the table fees
is ill advised and illegal - pleas email any reports to
registration@pacificposse.com ( anonymous ok ) we will start beating the
drums on behalf of all seafarers.

CORRUTPTION IN AMERICAN SAMOA

QUICK FACT :
THE
U.S. Department of the Interior Interior provided $26.6 Million to
American Samoa for Fiscal Year 2022 Government Operations  - for a
link to how much agency support the US government provides AS
follow this link >>

15) FREE ACCESS TO GOOD NAUTICAL  

IF
YOU ARE SIGNED UP FOR THE  '23 SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE  you will
be assigned  access credentials to GOODNAUTICAL South Pacific
regions 

 
 

 

Good Nautical

 

CONSIDER MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION TO GOOD NAUTICAL 

https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/goodnautical

 

https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/goodnautical

 

NEW CALEDONIA'S ANCHORAGES ARE IN GOOD NAUTICAL 

16) HISTORIC PORTS ⚓ OF THE  PACIFIC 
LAHAINA HAWAI'I

The Port of Lahaina goes back almost two centuries since Lahaina was the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii from 1820 to 1845.

 Lahaina Harbor
 Lahaina Harbor

Historic View of Lahaina by J G Sawkins

Lahaina 3

The
Old Lahaina Fort was originally built in 1831 by Hoapili, the Royal
Governor of Maui. He built the fort to protect the town from riotous
sailors when Lahaina was used as an anchorage for the North Pacific
whaling fleet.

After
the fort was demolished in 1854, a courthouse was built on the site. A
portion of the old Lahaina Fort was reconstructed in 1964.  

Lahaina

Whaling
ships hunting sperm whales in the Pacific began to arrive in Hawaiʻi in
1819, and many ships anchored in Honolulu and Lahaina. The impact of
the whaling fleets on the Hawaiian Islands during the reign of
Kamehameha III (1825–1854) shaped the entire Hawaiian economy and was
the primary source of income for the islands until the discovery of oil
in Titusville, Pennsylvania in 1859 and the onset of the American Civil
War (1861–1865).

Kamehameha III and Kalama, ca. 1850

Kamehameha III and Kalama, ca. 1850

 Ships
would generally seek repairs in Honolulu, but captains preferred
anchoring off Lahaina because of its easy access from the Lahaina Roads
and for the fresh provisions available in town. According to Henry L.
Sheldon, "the business of the entire population was the furnishing of
supplies to whalers and entertaining the crews". Sailors who had been
hunting whales for months at a time went to Lahaina to drink grog and
meet women.

LAHAINA

By
1825 a kapu prohibiting women from going out to ships for the purpose
of prostitution was proclaimed by the Hawaiian chiefs (ali'i ). Enraged
that they could not cajole, coax, or coerce Hawaiian women into
violating the kapu, the sailors turned their frustrations on the
American missionaries, whom they blamed for the emergence of this new
unreasonably strict moral law.

Whalers
opposed any rules governing alcohol and prostitution, and blamed
missionaries for influencing the Kingdom of Hawaii to enforce such
rules. Riots broke out at least four times—in 1825, 1826, 1827, and
1843. In the 1827 riots, sailors on the John Palmer fired their cannons
at the home of missionary William Richards and threatened the safety of
the community.

Lahina

Queen
Kaʻahumanu (1768–1832) visited Maui in February 1832, just months
before she died, to support the construction of a new fort to protect
the town from whalers. With her help, Hoapili (1775–1840), Royal
Governor of Maui, built the fort on the Lahaina waterfront and it was
completed within a month. The fort was constructed from coral blocks
with walls approximately 15–20 feet high topped with 47 cannons. An 1848
inventory lists 6 large cannons, 21 small cannons, 6 breech-loaders,
and 8 which did not work. The fort stored quantities of gunpowder, guns,
rifles, and swords, and was used as a prison. Sailors who docked at
Lahaina were subject to a sunset curfew; it they did not return to their
ship when the drums sounded they would be imprisoned in the fort.

John Stobart - Lahaina Maui: The Whaling Brig

John Stobart - Lahaina Maui: The Whaling Brig "Isabella" Arriving In 1865

In
1841, American naval officer Charles Wilkes (1798–1877) visited Lahaina
Fort as commanding officer of the United States Exploring Expedition.
Wilkes observed, "After the king's palace, the fort is the most
conspicuous object: it is of little account, however, as a defence,
serving chiefly to confine unruly subjects and sailors in.

As
the whaling industry declined and the California Gold Rush gained
prominence in the late 1840s, Hawaii's population dropped, and
infectious disease epidemics contributed to the loss of local
populations. The fort was restored in 1847 but was now used more as a
prison than for defending the Kingdom. The cannons were rusting and the
fort was mostly empty of personnel except for a few soldiers and the
Governor of Maui who lived there. When Henry Augustus Wise visited in
1848, he met James Young (1797–1851), then Governor of Maui, who was
living in the fort.

Wise
wrote that it was: "an oddly assorted battery of some thirty pieces of
artillery, of all sorts of carriages and calibre—long, short, and
mediums; they command the usual anchorage, and no doubt do very well to
prevent any acts of violence from merchant ships; but it is a question,
if, at the second discharge of shot, they do not tumble to pieces."

Hawaii Flag

17) MEET OUR SPONSORS 

  • PREDICT WIND
  • PANAMA CANAL AGENT ERICK GALVEZ CENTENARIO CONSULTING
  • YACHT AGENTS GALAPAGOS
  • YACHT AGENTS NUKU HIVA
  • SAIL TAHITI
  • OCEAN TACTICS | PACIFIC WEATHER ROUTING
  • SHELTER BAY MARINA PANAMA
  • DENARAU MARINA FIJI
  • NAWI ISLAND MARINA
  • VUDA POINT MARINA
  • COPRA SHED MARINA FIJI
  • CLOUD 9
  • PUERTO AMISTAD ECUADOR
  • RIVERGATE MARINA AUSTRALIA
  • MARSDEN COVE MARINA NEW ZEALAND
  • GULF HARBOUR MARINA NEW ZEALAND
  • YACHTING WORLD MARINA PORT VILA VANUATU

WE OPERATE UNDER INTERNATIONAL MARITIME LAW

YOUR VESSEL YOUR CREW YOUR RESPONSIBILITY 





South Pacific Posse
VATU

The colorful VATU

 

 


Picture of the Week

FLEET UPDATE 2023-07-23

 

South Pacifc Posse '23

 

Mistakes are the portals of discovery.

- James Joyce

 
 

 SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE 
FLEET UPDATE 

2023-JULY-23

14 Ensigns
A double rainbow in our Tahiti anchorage.

A double rainbow in our Tahiti anchorage.  🇵🇫 French Polynesia 
SY FIRST LIGHT 

SY FIRST LIGHT  🇺🇸 Don & Julie  -  Hallberg Rassy 39′

FIRST LIGHT DonFIRST LIGHT Julie

TOP NEWS

 

  • SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE PARTY IN FIJI SAT AUG 26
  • PREDICT WIND DATA HUB SPECIAL 
  • PICTURES OF THE WEEK
  • MALEKULA 🇻🇺 VANUATU
  • THE BACK BEAT🥁 IN FP   
  • NIUATOPUTAPU 🇹🇴 TONGA
  • SOCIETY ISLANDS M'OOREA 
  • SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE  ⛈️ WEATHER ROUTING SPECIAL 
  • KADAVU  🇫🇯  FIJI 
  • VAVA'U BOATYARD 🇹🇴 TONGA 
  • SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE  🏆 AWARD CATEGORIES 
  • THE RAINBOW WARRIOR NZ | FRANCE 
  • SPECIAL EVENT IN TAHITI THIS WEEKEND
  • HISTORIC PORTS ⚓ OF THE SOUTH PACIFIC 
     

1) SOUTH PACIFC POSSE PARTY 
NAWI ISLAND 🇫🇯 FIJI

 

Monoriki

 

 16° 46.5716' S  179° 19.9533' E -  Nawi Island Savusavu 🇫🇯 Fiji

 

RSVP NOW
AUG 26 2023
 

 

NAWI ISLAND

 

Burgee Back

South Pacific Posse '23 BUrgee Front

2) PREDICT WIND 
DATA HUB SPECIAL FOR THE 
SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE 
 
DEAL EXPIRES AUG 15, 2024

10% off the DataHub by PredictWind is your gateway to sharing your voyage with
friends and family using PredictWind GPS Tracking and Blogs. The DataHub
is a powerful smart device packed with features that will make tracking
your inshore and offshore GPS, data and communications onboard your
vessel easier than ever.

 

Data Hub

 

This smart device is the hub for all your GPS tracking, data, SMS, Email and
Whats App connectivity. Packed with features  the Datahub
integrates with your nav and comm systems. $299.00  

 SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE SPECIAL10% off

 

DataHub This smart device is the hub for all your GPS tracking, data, SMS, Email and Whats App connectivity. Packed with features you will quickly find the Datahub is an essential smart device for your boat.

 

This
smart device is the hub for all your GPS tracking, data, SMS, Email and
Whats App connectivity. Packed with features you will quickly find the
Datahub is an essential smart device for your boat.
Technical Details and all features  here >>

Say Hello

3)   PICTURES OF THE WEEK

PICTURES OF THE WEEK

SY WANDERLUST 🇺🇸 Kristin & Fabio - Seawind 52′

WANDERLUST FabioWANDERLUST KristiWANDERLUST Crew

WHEN 90 DAYS ARE UP   🇵🇫
IT'S TIME TO LEAVE FRENCH POLYNESIA 

HAPPY

Well, our 90 day visa time in Polynesia is coming to an end. We will soon be making for Tonga.  

Lavender coral in the shallows off Tahiti.

Lavender coral in the shallows off Tahiti.

First Light entering Opunohu Bay on Moorea, where Capt Cook once anchored.

First Light entering Opunohu Bay on Moorea, where Capt Cook once anchored.

SY FIRST LIGHT  🇺🇸 Don & Julie  -  Hallberg Rassy 39′

FIRST LIGHT DonFIRST LIGHT Julie

I TAHITI 🇵🇫 HEIVA'S 

NINA

The History of Heiva

Music
and dance have always been a central part of  Polynesian culture.
Tahitian dance, or "Ori Tahiti," is one of the most sophisticated and
ritualized art forms of all time. However, it was not always practiced
as freely in Tahiti as it is today. When European Protestant
missionaries arrived in the 19th century, they found such "erotic"
displays to be offensive and King Pomare II legally banned the tradition
in 1819. Thankfully, the Tahitian people found a way to keep dance
alive, practicing the ritual in secret and passing on the tradition in
anticipation for its revival.

After Tahiti was annexed by France in 1881,
the Heiva festival began to take shape. At that time, the event was
called Tiurai – a derivation of the word July. It was meant to coincide
with France's national holiday known as Bastille Day, which is still
celebrated every year on July 14th. On this one day, France allowed
Polynesians to partake in their traditional celebrations. The first
festival included games, entertainment and singing, but dance was still
somewhat restricted, forcing them to perform a much more "sanitized"
version of Tahitian dance.

It
wasn't until 1956 that Madeleine Moua, a high school principal from
Papeete, spearheaded the full revival of Tahitian dance by forming the
dance troupe Heiva Tahiti. Soon after, traditional dance resumed its
rightful place as a vibrant part of Tahitian culture. Then in 1985,
Tahiti obtained greater political autonomy from France and they renamed
the festival Heiva I Tahiti.

 The History of Heiva Music and dance have always been a central part of Polynesian culture. Tahitian dance, or

SY ENJOY   🇺🇸  Don & Nina - Lagoon 42′

ENJOY NinaENJOY Don

4) MALEKULA 🇻🇺 VANUATU

Vanuatu STreams

Cascades - located on Vanuatu’s Malekula Island

Water Stream

Chief Setla giving us a tour of his waterfalls on Malekula. 

NEVAN

Supposedly his dad killed and ate the guy and kept the skull.

David

 SY DREAMER  David & Gerne - Caliber 40lrv’

DREAMER CrewDREAMER GerneDREAMER David
Malekula

Malekula 🇻🇺 Vanuatu  and several anchorage off the second largest island in Vanuatu  are in Good Nautical

5) THE BACK BEAT🥁 IN FP   

 Cyrolia

For
questions on the best time and conditions for a trip back from the
leeward island to the windward islands within the society island Alan is
your man - he has done this "beat" numerous times.

CYROLIA

SY CYROLIA 🇫🇷 Alan - Jeanneau 53′

CYROLIA Alan

6) NIUATOPUTAPU 🇹🇴 TONGA

CATWEAZLE

Niuatoputapa Tonga and it's  challenging reef pass.
A
view from the volcanic island north. Its name means sacred island.
Older European names for the island are Traitors Island or Keppel
Island.

Niuatoputapu

In
January 2010, the Tonga Broadcasting Commission sent a television crew
to Niuatoputapu to interview the survivors of the September 2009 tsunami
in Samoa Islands Region. The documentary team interviewed over 50
people, and  took along an artist, Soakimi Maka Finau, who drew 31
sketches from the survivors’ descriptions of the tsunami. The one-hour
documentary called “Niuatoputapu after the Tsunami of 2009”, was
broadcast by Television Tonga in March 2010.

This
book is based on the documentary, along with three other interviews
recorded on October 3, 2010, at the Vaiola Hospital in Nuku‘alofa, where
several injured survivors had been evacuated for treatment. It also
includes photographs and diagrams.

Download English version here.

CERULEAN

GPS - GPX
tracks from SY Sea Casa on Sat, 09/01/2018 - 09:44.vessel going though
the challengig path of Niuatoputapu are in Good Nautical

SY CERULEAN   🇳🇿 Helen & Stephen - Seastream 43 Mk3′

CERULIANCERULIAN
Niuatoputapu tafahi tonga - Public domain vintage map

Niuatoputapu Tafahi Tonga - Public domain vintage map

7) SOCIETY ISLANDS  M'OOREA 

Passage Pictures 

Pictures from Moorea, and a cool shot of my two kiddies sitting together next to ancient Polynesian ruins...kinda neat

Mo'orea
it's known for its jagged volcanic mountains and beaches and lush
interior. Inland, hiking trails wind through rainforest on the slopes of
Mount Tohivea.  

The Bay

In the north, Mount Rotui overlooks picturesque Ōpūnohu Bay ( above) and the settlements around Cook's Bay.  

Belvedere Lookout Moorea

Belvedere Lookout on Mo'orea with Cook's Bay on the right

and a cool shot of my two kiddies sitting together next to ancient Polynesian ruins...kinda neat

a cool shot of my two kiddies sitting together next to ancient Polynesian ruins...kinda neat

 SY MONSOON   🇺🇸  Travis, Yeen Yee, Rowan , Everyn - Fuji 32′

MONSOON Yeen YeeMONSOON CrewMONSOON Crew

     

8) SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE  
⛈️
 WEATHER ROUTING SPECIAL 

OFFSHORE WEATHER ROUTING

Pacific  Passage Tactics

This
allows us to get to know you and your vessel and is a necessary part of
all Ocean Tactics engagements. During the lead up to the passage we’ll
discuss Comfort Levels for Wind and Wave, Vessel Characteristics and
Conditions to expect on passage.

Passage
Tactics also includes discussion briefings via Line, WhatsApp or
Messenger just prior to departure to give you a full understanding of
what to expect and detail factors that may influence your tactics on
passage.

PACIFIC STREAM

Mid season special for Ocean Tactics. 
Two passages for the price of one US$297  

 

https://pacificposse.com/ocean-tactics

 

John Martin 

Coastal & Offshore Cruising Intl.

admin@coastalandoffshorecruising.com

Phone  0272421088 

WhatsApp +64272421088

 

South Pacific Posse

 


SIGN UP
 

57 vessels

 

9) KADAVU  🇫🇯  FIJI 

Kadavu Island - Anchor check 

Seaglub

Kadavu is best known for the Great Astrolabe Reef.

The
Astrolabe Reef runs along Kadavu’s southern shore then arcs north-east
passed Ono Island up to Buliya Island – famous for manta ray snorkeling.

Named
after the French ship Astrolabe, the Great Astrolabe Reef, is a
breeding ground for big fish like tuna, marlin, giant Trevally and
sharks. Gaps in the reef can be subject to strong currents, but these
also bring in the nutrients which feed everyone along the food chain,
from the soft corals, to the reef fish, to the big fish. 

The
environment makes for adventurous and colorful diving, with sites like
Naiqoro Passage where you can experience big fish action against a
background of colorful soft coral coated walls. 

Access
to a range of dive sites from the 63m long Pacific Voyager Wreck, to
the Muto Marine Protected area and the Great Astrolabe Reef.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=71laDzip2ss

 

 SY SEAGLUB 🇺🇸 Chris - Hylas 46′

SEAGLUB Chris

10) VAVA'U BOATYARD 🇹🇴 TONGA 
SPONSORS THE SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE

 

Tonga’s Borders are open to the South Pacific Posse again! 18° 38.625′ S 173° 59.7483′ W

 

18° 38.625′  S  173° 59.7483′ W

The
island groups of Tonga are are some of the most beautiful in the world.
But the lack of secure hurricane/cyclone storage has always meant there
was that deadline, when cruisers have to leave this paradise far too
soon and seek shelter in Fiji or New Zealand. The BoatYard is a brand
new yacht haulage and hard stand facility in Vava’u, the first in Tonga,
and has turned Tonga into a safe year-round cruising destination!

We can offer your members a 10% discount on cyclone season storage and long time hardstand storage.

Cheers,

JOE

CONTACT The Boatyard Vava’u

+6768816854

+6768816846

info@boatyardvavau.com

Vavau

Vavaʿu
Group, island cluster of Tonga, in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. The
group comprises two chains, one coral and the other volcanic. To the
east lie uplifted coral islands, including Vavaʿu Island, the largest.
Vavaʿu with an active volcano rising to 600 feet, was discovered in 1781
by Spanish explorer Francisco Antonio Mourelle, who named it Amargura
(Spanish for “bitterness”) because of his disappointment at being able
to obtain neither food nor fresh water.

VAVA'U

Vavaʿu
Island has a fine sheltered harbour and several unique coastal caves.
It is the site of Neiafu, the group’s administrative headquarters. Its
fertile soil yields corn (maize), breadfruit, yams, and copra, the last
for export. An airport is located at Lupepauʿu, in the northern part of
the island. Because of the myriad of islands to the south of Vavaʿu
Island and its many fine beaches and protected anchorages.

Visit Tonga: 2023 Archipelago of Vava'U

11) SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE  
🏆 
AWARD CATEGORIES 

  • BIGGEST FISH CAUGHT ✔ 
  • PICTURE OF THE YEAR ✔  
  • PACIFIC POSSE YODA OF THE YEAR ✔  
  • THE CAPTAIN RON AWARD ✔
  • MOST UNWELCOME VISITOR ONBOARD ✔ 
  • HIGHEST WIND RECORDED ✔ 
  • SPIRIT OF EXPLORATION ✔ 
  • GALLEY GOD(ESS) ✔ 
  • SPEEDY AWARD
  • GOOD SAMARITAN OF THE YEAR ✔  
  • BOAT YOGA POSE OF THE YEAR ✔
  • COURAGE AWARD 

12) THE RAINBOW WARRIOR 
NZ vs FRANCE 

French nuclear test, Licorne, at Mururoa Atoll

Speaking of Oppenheimer ... 

Between 1966 and 1996, the French government conducted 193 nuclear weapon tests in the islands of the South Pacific. These 

Tests

The
Rainbow Warrior was a Greenpeace flagship vessel used for environmental
activism and protests. On July 10, 1985, it was docked at the port of
Auckland, New Zealand, preparing for a campaign against French nuclear
testing in the South Pacific. France was conducting nuclear tests in the
region, which raised environmental and safety concerns, and Greenpeace
sought to draw attention to this issue.

In
what became a highly controversial and tragic event, French
intelligence agents bombed the Rainbow Warrior while it was berthed in
Auckland's Waitematā Harbour. The explosion sank the vessel and resulted
in the death of Fernando Pereira, a Portuguese photographer and
Greenpeace activist.

The
incident caused outrage both in New Zealand and internationally. It was
quickly revealed that French agents were behind the attack, which
further strained relations between New Zealand and France.

In
the aftermath of the bombing, the French government initially denied
any involvement. However, evidence soon emerged, and under mounting
international pressure, France eventually admitted responsibility for
the attack. The agents involved in the bombing were captured by New
Zealand authorities, but they were later released as part of a
diplomatic resolution between the two countries.

Thirty-two years after the Rainbow Warrior bombing, unrepentant French spy Christine Cabon is found

The Rainbow Warrior bombing, unrepentant French spy Christine Cabon  

The
Rainbow Warrior incident led to significant tensions between New
Zealand and France. New Zealand's Prime Minister at the time, David
Lange, condemned the attack and took a strong stance against French
actions. In response, New Zealand imposed sanctions on France, which
included economic and diplomatic measures.

One
of the most significant consequences of this diplomatic spat was the
downgrading of diplomatic relations between the two countries. France
withdrew its ambassador from New Zealand, and for a period, the
relationship between the two nations was severely strained.

In
subsequent years, however, the relationship gradually improved, and
diplomatic ties were eventually restored. The incident left a lasting
impact on New Zealand's stance on nuclear disarmament and environmental
activism, as well as its foreign policy approach towards France and
other nations.

The
bombing of the Rainbow Warrior remains a poignant reminder of the
importance of peaceful activism and the consequences of state-sponsored
actions against peaceful protesters.

The Rainbow Warrior is in Marsden Wharf in Auckland Harbour after the bombing by French secret service agents.

The
level of animosity between New Zealand and France had significantly
diminished since the Rainbow Warrior incident in 1985. Over the years,
both countries have worked to rebuild their relationship and have
engaged in various diplomatic efforts to move past the incident.

The
reconciliation process has been aided by France's formal apology for
the bombing and the recognition of the incident's tragic consequences.
Additionally, the conviction and punishment of the French agents
involved in the attack also played a role in easing tensions.

 

 

Video of a day at the Rainbow Warrior memorial in Matauri Bay, NZ

Sunsets Galore

13) SPECIAL EVENT IN TAHITI THIS WEEKEND

July 21st to 24th, we do organize an event in Tahiti  

We
also offer the cruisers the opportunity to invite a local inhabitant
during a day sail, to improve relationships between cruisers and
population. 

The Tahiti Moorea Sailing RDV is a annual 4-day event that

aims to give a warm Polynesian welcome to cruising sailors,

The 15 mn crossing from Tahiti to Moorea will be conducted

as a rally, not a race.

One large starting line will be set up outside the pass of Papeete

between the two race committee speed boats.

10:30 am start for all boats, given by flag sequence and on VHF 8.

Finish line is the outer set of red and green buoys

marking the Opunohu Bay entrance channel.

Permanent priority must be given to ferries and other commercial

traffic operating in the Tahiti-Moorea channel.

Please Note: If weather conditions prohibit an arrival before

3:00pm, the organizing committee can shorten the race by

announcing a finishing line offshore.

FRIDAY JULY 21

Welcome to TAHITI reception & cocktail

• 2:00 pm: Meet in the garden

of Papeete City Hall, the Mairie de Papeete.

Check in with our team at the committee booth and receive your welcome

kit (information folder, skippers’ briefing documents, T-Shirts, etc.). Meet

our partners from Tahiti, Australia, Tonga, Fiji, New Zealand and Vanuatu.

• 3:30 pm: Skippers’ briefing about navigation

in Moorea and the Leewards islands.

• 5:30 pm to 7:00pm: Welcome speech & cocktail

for fleet members offered by the South Pacific Sailing

Network (SPSN). Live Polynesian dance and music.

SATURDAY JULY 22

Sailing rally TAHITI TO MOOREA

• 10:30 am: Rally/race (“cruise-in-company”)

starts from Tahiti to Moorea.

By 9:00 or 9:30 am sailboats should leave Papeete Harbor, Arue and

Punaauia marinas, motoring to the pass of Papeete. Fleet will gather

outside the main entrance to Papeete Harbor for the 10:am start of

this (no-pressure) sailing rally to Moorea’s Opunohu Bay. Start of the

rally will be outside the coral reef of Papeete’s pass and in between

two speedboats of the organizing committee.

Finish line will be in the entrance pass of Opunohu Bay. Anchor inside

the bay, in the moorings areas allocated by PGEM.

5:00 pm: Dinghy ashore on the floating

pontoons of the small marina on the Kellum

domain. (Back of the bay.)

Sailors welcomed with music and flowers. Mingle with fleet members.

Register your team for Sunday’s outrigger canoe races. Conference

about traditional navigation.

• 7:00pm: Optional dinner in the marina

restaurant (with prior registration only).

SUNDAY JULY 23 – MOOREA

Sample Polynesian traditional sports and cultural exchanges

• 7:00 am: Moorea fresh baguette delivered

to each boat early in the morning

• 9:00 am: Dinghy ashore for a fun day of

traditional Polynesian sports in the magnificent botanical

garden of Kellum’s estate.

Local experts will demonstrate and cruisers can test their skills. The

highlight of the day will be the six-person outrigger canoe races,

where cruisers join local paddlers in a series of races.

• Noon: Optional lunch (Spit-roasted veal and polynesian

buffet : 4000 XPF/pers with prior registration only).

• 2:30 pm: Awards ceremony

and Tahitian dance show.

MONDAY JULY 24 – MOOREA

• 9:00 am: Presentation by SPSN partners of highly informative

seminars on cruising Fiji, Tonga, New Zealand, and Vanuatu.

Complimentary beverages and croissants.

event in Tahiti

Registration for the four days of festivities and seminars

5000 XPF per
person (includes event T-shirt, Cocktails, flower leis, all activities
& entertainment, outrigger canoe race, live dances, fresh bread
delivery, trophies...)

14) "AND THEY ARE UNDERWAY"
 FLEET TRACKING FOR PARTICIPANTS  
 

 

Tracking

 

 About Tracking:

Designed to give interesting parties  an overview. For specific vessel details including their float plan,
latest updates, changes, positions and specific location related
questions please contact each vessel directly.  If you are on
passage let us know and the fleet can monitor your progress.

https://pacificposse.com/add-to-tracking

15) FREE ACCESS TO GOOD NAUTICAL  

IF
YOU ARE SIGNED UP FOR THE  '23 SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE  you will
be assigned  access credentials to GOODNAUTICAL South Pacific
regions 

 
 

 

Good Nautical

 

CONSIDER MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION TO GOOD NAUTICAL 

https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/goodnautical

 

https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/goodnautical

 

AUSTRALIA'S  QUEENSLAND ANCHORAGES ARE IN GOOD NAUTICAL 

16) HISTORIC PORTS ⚓ OF THE SOUTH PACIFIC 
SUVA  FIJI

SUVA QUUENS WHARF

Queen's Wharf

Queen’s
wharf was originally the main wharf for Suva. It was connected to Pier
Street before the area underwent land reclamation works. It was
dismantled in 1921 and replaced by the larger King’s Wharf at the
present site in Walu Bay.

Queen Elizabeth II arrives in Suva, Fiji from the Royal yacht and is presented a bouquet of flowers by Fijian girl Adi Kaunilotuma who sat down in front of her on the carpet during the royal visit to Fiji, February 1963. (Photo by Daily Mirror/Mirrorpix/Mirrorpix via Getty Images)

Queen
Elizabeth II arrives in Suva, Fiji from the Royal yacht and is
presented a bouquet of flowers by Fijian girl Adi Kaunilotuma who sat
down in front of her on the carpet during the royal visit to Fiji in
1963. 

The Grand Pacific Hotel - Picture of Grand Pacific Hotel, Viti Levu

The Grand Pacific Hotel - 100% Colonial Style

SUVA HARBOUR

Suva,
capital, chief port, and commercial centre of Fiji, in the South
Pacific Ocean. The city lies on the southeast coast of Viti Levu, Fiji's
principal island. Founded in 1849, Suva became the capital in 1882 and
was made a city in 1952; it is now one of the largest urban centers in
the South Pacific islands.

Suva

17) MEET OUR SPONSORS 

  • PREDICT WIND
  • PANAMA CANAL AGENT ERICK GALVEZ CENTENARIO CONSULTING
  • YACHT AGENTS GALAPAGOS
  • YACHT AGENTS NUKU HIVA
  • SAIL TAHITI
  • OCEAN TACTICS | PACIFIC WEATHER ROUTING
  • SHELTER BAY MARINA PANAMA
  • DENARAU MARINA FIJI
  • NAWI ISLAND MARINA
  • VUDA POINT MARINA
  • COPRA SHED MARINA FIJI
  • CLOUD 9
  • PUERTO AMISTAD ECUADOR
  • RIVERGATE MARINA AUSTRALIA
  • MARSDEN COVE MARINA NEW ZEALAND
  • GULF HARBOUR MARINA NEW ZEALAND
  • YACHTING WORLD MARINA PORT VILA VANUATU

WE OPERATE UNDER INTERNATIONAL MARITIME LAW

YOUR VESSEL YOUR CREW YOUR RESPONSIBILITY 











South Pacific Posse

The colorful AUD

south pacific posse communications 
 @ 9811 w charleston blvd 2262 89117 Las Vegas USA 

 

© 2023 South Pacific Posse / Ocean Posse LLC


FLEET UPDATE 2023-06-11

 

South Pacifc Posse '23

 

"Do just once what others say you can't do, and you will never pay attention to their limitations again.."

- Captain James Cook FRS


SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE
FLEET UPDATE

2023-06-11

13 Ensigns

63 Yachts from 13 ensigns are part of a forward scouting fleet looking for opportunities and looking out for threats.

To join follow this link >>

Jean-Marie Tjibaou Cultural Centre Noumea designe by Renzo Piana Noumea New Caledonai

Jean-Marie Tjibaou Cultural Centre Noumea designed by Renzo Piano 🇳🇨 NEW CALEDONIA

TOP NEWS

  • L'ÎLOT AMÉDÉE 🇳🇨 NEW CALEDONIA
  • PICTURES OF THE WEEK
  • GET YOUR BURGEE
  • MONSOON'S TAKE
  • SAVE THE DATE
  • OCEAN TACTICS 🌪🌀
  • CYCLONE HOLES 🇫🇯 FIJI
  • RIVERGATE MARINA & SHIPYARD 🇦🇺
  • MANUAL TRACKING WITH PREDICT WIND SWITCH OVER
  • BOLO ALERT
  • HISTORIC PORTSVAVA'U KINGDOM OF 🇹🇴 TONGA

1) L'ÎLOT AMÉDÉE
🇳🇨 NEW CALEDONIA

 Amedee Lighthouse

The Amedee Lighthouse, located near Noumea, New Caledonia has some fascinating facts.

Construction: The Amedee Lighthouse was constructed in France in the late 1860s and was shipped in pieces to New Caledonia. It was designed by French engineer, Henri Becquerel, and stands as a testament to 19th-century engineering.

Tower Height: The lighthouse stands at a height of 56 meters (184 feet). It is one of the tallest lighthouses in the Southern Hemisphere and offers panoramic views of the surrounding ocean and islands surrounded by white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters with sea turtles nearby.

The lighthouse is made of cast iron plates, which were riveted together to form the cylindrical tower. It features a spiral staircase with 247 steps leading to the lantern room at the top. The lighthouse's distinctive red and white stripes make it easily recognizable.

The Amédée Lighthouse

The Amedee Lighthouse is not just a historical , it is still an active lighthouse. It serves as an essential navigational aid, guiding ships through the coral reefs and marking the entrance to the Noumea harbor.

The lens, the original one fitted, is made up of a series of prismatic segments and known as a Fresnel lens. It was made in Paris in 1862 by the Société des Etablissements Henry-Lepaute. It was brought, dismantled, to New Caledonia and reassembled on top of the Amédée lighthouse in 1865. It was removed in 1985 when the lighthouse was automated, and replaced by a more modern lens.

The original lense was made up of a series of prismatic segments and known as a Fresnel lens. It was made in Paris in 1862 by the Société des Etablissements Henry-Lepaute and was replaced in 1985.

Conservation

Conservation Efforts: Due to its ecological importance, Amedee Island and its surrounding waters have been designated a marine protected area. This designation aims to preserve the diverse marine ecosystem and promote sustainable tourism practices

 Ilot Amadee

⚓ Good Anchorage & Mooring Balls @ 22° 28.55 S 166° 27.93 E Ilot Amadee 🇳🇨 NEW CALEDONIA

2) PICTURES OF THE WEEK

Suwarrow

@ anchor with sharks

At anchor

very good visibility * location withheld ;-)

At Anchor

SY GLADAN 🇵🇱 Giancarlo & Paola - Lagoon 44′

Gladan PaolaGladan Giancarlo
Mt Yasur

Mt Yasur Volcano in Vanuatu with David in all it's glory

On the edge of hell

On the edge of the caldron - phet phet phet is the sound of 2000 degree lava rocks landing all around you as they are launched at 1,000°C / 1,800°F. Estimated to erupt 10-20 times every hour as the volcano is constantly rumbling and causing the ground to shake.

MT YASUR

SY DREAMER 🇺🇸 David & Gerne - Caliber 40lrv’

DREAMER CrewDREAMER GerneDREAMER David
 

Experience in 30 seconds what a volcanic eruption looks like up close !

VANUATU IS IN GOOD NAUTICAL

VANUATU IS IN GOOD NAUTICAL ⚓

Rolling Stones

SY ROLLING STONES 🇺🇸 Geoff, Meghan & crew Leopard 45′

Rolling Stones Rolling Stones Rolling Stones Rolling Stones Rolling Stones
FIRST LIGHT

SKY LIGHT

 A coral bombie off a motu in Tahanea atoll

A coral bommie off a motu in Tahanea atoll FP

UNderwater

The sailing duo of Don Atwood and Julie Dunne will be chronicling their adventures, both land and sea with pictures and stories as they journey across the South Pacific aboard the sailboat First Light.

Coral
At Peace

More shots of the beautiful atolls of French Polynesia.

Floating the anchor chain to avoid coral damage and avoiding getting tangled up our bommies

FIRST LIGHT

SY FIRST LIGHT Don & Julie - Hallberg Rassy 39′

FIRST LIGHT DonFIRST LIGHT Julie
 

Marquesas
Marquesas
NANAI

SY NANAI 🇺🇸 Chris, Kay, Kevin & Mark - Tashing,Taswell 49′

3) GET YOUR BURGEE FROM KEVIN
@ NUKU HIVA YACHT SERVICES

Burgee Back

South Pacific Posse '23 BUrgee Front

Yacht Services Nuku Hiva 🇵🇫 Sponsors the South Pacific Posse

Yacht Services Nuku Hiva 🇵🇫 Sponsors the South Pacific Posse

I look forward to meeting and helping the participants

Cheers, Kevin

BP 301 Taiohae, 98742 Nuku Hiva, French Polynesia

+689 87 22 68 72, YSNukuHiva@hotmail.com

VHF 72, Monday – Friday 0800-1400

4) INTRODUCING THE LATEST
SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE MARINA

MUSKET COVE MARINA 🇫🇯 SPONSORS THE PANAMA POSSE

MUSKET COVE FIJI

We welcome any of the South Pacific Posse to Musket Cove at any time.

We’re pleased to offer a Free Berthing Day for 5 Paid Days to all South Pacific Posse Members.

Wayne Deed Musket ove Fiji

Wayne Deed
Musket Cove Fiji

Musket COve Fiji

Musket Cove in Fiji is a renowned destination that holds a special allure for yachts from all around the world.

Musket Cove is located in the idyllic Mamanuca Islands of Fiji, surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and lush tropical landscapes. The natural beauty is breathtaking and provides a perfect backdrop for hanging out a season in the tropics.

Fiji offers excellent sailing conditions and service oriented staff and vendors with consistent trade winds, calm waters, and numerous sheltered anchorages and amazing surf breaks. Musket Cove, in particular, benefits from its strategic location within the Mamanuca Islands, providing easy access to nearby islands, reefs, and marine parks with an easy ferry to get you and your crew and guest back to and from the main island and Nandi airport.

The marina offers a range of services, including berthing, fueling, making it a convenient and well-equipped base for yachts to dock, moor and refuel.

Musket Cove has developed a vibrant yachting community hosting various events, races, regattas, and social gatherings, fostering a sense of camaraderie among cruisers. These events provide opportunities for networking, sharing experiences, and celebrating the joy of exploring via yacht.

It also offers a range of amenities and services that appeal beyond sailors. The Musket Cove Island Resort provides luxurious accommodation, restaurant options spa facilities, and additional recreational activities, allowing you to unwind and indulge in a relaxed setting.

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5) MORE PICTURES OF THE WEEK

BRAVO ZULU

enjoying some dolphins in the distance, or maybe to get some alone time

Mary Caraway Ewing enjoying some dolphins in the distance, or maybe to get some alone time

More exploration of the dramatic Marquesas. These islands were once the home of tens of thousands of Polynesians

We sail where the coconuts grow

We sail where the coconuts grow and ... FALL!

Local Fruits

Legendary Pampelmousse and local fruits grow among breadfruit plant or 'uru, the coconut, the dozens of varieties of bananas including the incomparable orange plantain banana or fe'i, various root vegetables such as the taro, the tarua, the ufi, and the 'umara make up the basis of island cuisine

 Tiki: Anthropomorphic Sculptures, Sacred Structures and Powerful Places in Marquesas Islands Tiki : Sculptures anthropomorphiques, structures et localités sacrées des îles Marquises Sidsel Millerstrom p. 1828-1846 Abstract Index Text Bibliography Notes AuthorIllustrations Abstract English Français The ancient Marquesan anthropomorphic stone and wood sculptures or tiki have received wide attention since they were first noted in 1595. However, they have not been systematically and scientifically studied until the Marquesas Rock Art Project was created in 1984. Over several years eighty‑four anthropomorphic sculptures were located through intensive field survey and interviews with local Marquesan. Information gathered at each site included metric data, archaeological, social, architectural and environmental context. Stylistically the Marquesan stone tiki are remarkably similar and followed certain social rules. The similar characteristics also seen in Marquesan rock art, tattoo, and material objects suggest that the fundamental principles regarding the symbolic order remained unchanged for a long time. Moreover, the homogeneous decorative system demonstrates that the Marquesan adhered to a common ideology and belief system. Index terms Mots clés : Océanie, Polynésie française, Îles Marquises, Tiki, pierres anthropomorphiques, archéologie, sculpture sur bois, art rupestre, lieux sacrés, tatouage Keywords : Oceania, Marquesas Island, Tiki, anthropomorphic stone, archaeology, wood Sculptures, rock art, sacred place, tattoo Full text Acknowledgement The Marquesan Rock Art Project was a team effort and several archaeologists and local volunteers worked with us. While they are too numerous to mention here I am grateful for their enthusiasm, help and their friendship. I wish to acknowledge Maeva Navarro, former director of C.P.S.H., Tahiti, for initiating the Marquesan Rock Art Project, and for allowing my team and me to conduct research in the Marquesas. I thank her for her support and encouragement. Thank you to Edmundo Edwards, with whom I was fortunate to be able to work; he headed the project and became my working partner from the beginning. His knowledge of Polynesia and his overwhelming generosity and kindness touched everybody. Heidy Baumgartner Lesage, a long‑time friend and team mate, and I spent much time together in the Marquesas surveying, recording the petroglyphs, tiki, and associated architecture. I will always be indebted to Heidy for her sound advice and companionship. I thank the government of French Polynesia for allowing me to do archaeological research in the islands and for the many Marquesan that housed and fed us, showed us archaeological sites and became our friends. Introduction 1 A publication about a tiki exhibit in 2016, Tahiti, just become available. Tik (...) 1Since the 1590s, with the arrival of the first Europeans to the Marquesan Archipelago, stone and wood sculptures have been described, exhibited, photographed, sketched, painted and admired. However, the sculptures have never been systematically surveyed, documented and analysed. I present here a summary of metric information and empirical observation generated from data collected on the stone sculptures during several archaeological field seasons to the Marquesas Islands.1 2In 1984, Maeva Navarro, then Director of Département d’Archéologie, Centre Polynésien des Sciences Humaines, Te Anavaharau, Tahiti (C.P.S.H), initiated the Marquesas Island Rock Art Project. This government organization is presently known as Service de la Culture et du Patrimoine (S.C.P). Edmundo Edwards, then chief archaeologist with the department, directed the project. I was part of the venture from the beginning. During the Marquesan Rock Art Project, from 1984 to 1989, eighty‑four stone statues or tiki were documented in seventeen valleys on the presently six inhabited islands. Figure 1. The Marquesas Archipelago, French Polynesia Figure 1. The Marquesas Archipelago, French Polynesia Zoom in Original (png, 48k) © Map courtesy Melinda Allen 2016 2 Their work was published in 2007 by Service de la Culture et du Patrimoine, Mi (...) 3Since 1998, additional sculptures have been found and documented by others. For instance, the French couple Catherine Chavaillon and Eric Olivier, while living on Hiva Oa, recorded several previously undocumented statues2. 3 In the 1890s a large anthropomorphic head was taken from Me’ae Iipona, Puamau, Valley, (...) 4In 1997, the American archaeologist Barry Rolett, with University of Hawaii, Manoa, discovered four tiki heads on the surface of a shrine (me’ae) in Vaitahu, Tahuata. Several sculptures are located in Musée de Tahiti et des îles, Punaauia in numerous museums worldwide as well as in private collections. None of these anthropomorphic figures are included in this study. Some statues have been carried away by foreigners or they were hidden by Marquesan when Christianity became established in the archipelago.3 4 A stone monument in Vaitahu, Tahuata, raised in 1995 in commemoration of the discovery o (...) 5The first encounter between Europeans and Te Enana, as the Marquesan people now wish to be called, was brief and brutal.4 In July 1595, the Spanish commander Alvaro de Mendaña and his pilot Portuguese Pedro Fernández de Quiros came upon Fatu Hiva, Tahuata, Hiva Oa, and Montane islands in the southern group, on their way from Peru to form a colony in the Solomon Islands. Te Enana then became the first Polynesian island society to be discovered by the Europeans. During their visit to Vaitahu, Tahuata, Mendaña and his crew held a Mass, raised three wooden crosses, planted a few corn seeds, and took possession of the island in the name of Spain. Due to misunderstandings between Te Enana and the Spanish some two hundred islanders were massacred. Only Quiros left a record of what they saw during their sojourn in the islands. His account contained the first description of anthropomorphic sculptures and a sacred structure: 5 Markham, 1904, p. 27‑28. Apart from the village there was an oracle surrounded by palisades, with the entrance on the west side. Within there was a house, almost in the middle, in which were wooden figures badly carved; and here were offerings of food and a pig, which the soldiers took. When the Spanish soldiers attempted to take some of the objects, they were made to understand by the Enana that they had great respect for the place.5 6As far as the written record is concerned, no Europeans visited the islands during the following 179 years. Western influence first spread after Captain James Cook’s three‑day visit in 1774. Cook, commander of the Resolution and the Discovery, also anchored in Vaitahu Bay, Tahuata. 7He renamed it Resolution Bay. From then on numerous explorers, missionaries, traders and a few beachcombers arrived in the archipelago. Thus, the Marquesan social fabric dramatically changed forever. Anthropomorphic Sculptures (Tiki) Characteristics 8All representations of human like figures such as the statues, anthropomorphs seen in the petroglyphs, pictographs and tattoo repertoire, carved figures on bones, wood and shells are collectively referred to as tiki. This, however, does not mean that they represent the god Tiki, an important figure in Marquesan mythology. In general, the anthropomorphic statues represent deified ancestors such as important chiefs and priests, people that were considered sacred or tapu. For instance, Takai’i, at Me’ae Iipona, Puamu, Hiva Oa, the largest tiki in the Marquesas, was a powerful chief and warrior. Figure 2. Me'ae Iipona, Puamau, Hiva Oa. Takai’i and a sitting tiki Figure 2. Me'ae Iipona, Puamau, Hiva Oa. Takai’i and a sitting tiki Zoom in Original (jpeg, 1,1M) © Millerstrom Location 9Of the 84 stone anthropomorphic sculptures that we documented, the majority, 53 tiki (63,1 percent), were found on Hiva Oa (Table 1). At Me’ae Iipona, there are 18 tiki (5 statues, 10 heads, and three sculpture fragments), as well as numerous boulders with petroglyphs. Several of the heads were uncovered in 1991 when the French archaeologist Pierre Ottino and his crew restored the site for the Third Marquesas Islands Festival. The only sitting tiki recorded by us is located at this site (see figure 2). The sitting tiki, named Te aua ehu ehu or Fau poe, is believed to represent the wife of Takai’i, the tallest tiki in the Marquesas. Island Valley Frequency of tiki Percentage Hiva Oa Puamau 30 ‘Atu’ona 9 Hanaiapa 3 Eiaone 3 Ta’a Oa 2 Tahauku 2 Mutu Ua 2 Hanapa’ao’a 1 Punaei 1 Subtotal 53 63.1 Nuku Hiva Taipivai 12 Hatiheu 4 Anaho 1 Taiohae 4 Subtotal 21 25.0 Ua Huka Hane 4 Vaipaee 1 Hokatu 1 Subtotal 6 7.1 Tahuata Vaitahu 1 Subtotal 1 1.2 Ua Pu Hakamoui 1 Hakatehau 1 Subtotal 2 2.4 Fatu Hiva Omoa 1 Subtotal 1 1.2 Total 84 100 6 One of the “horizontally placed” tiki is located at Me’ae Iipona. In the 1 (...) 10A total of 48 tiki were documented in situ; the remaining 36 sculptures had been relocated, and their exact original location and archaeological contexts are uncertain. Based on morphology, five main categories are distinguished: 1) statue carved in the round; 2) modified boulder; 3) rectangular block with tiki figure in deep bas‑relief; 4) double figure; and 5) exotic figure. The last category includes two separate horizontally placed tiki resting on blocks and one seated figure (mentioned above).6 The most common visual characteristics are large circular eyes, wide nose, mouth, slightly flexed legs, and arms placed on a protruding stomach. It may include intricate facial features, tattoos, and headbands, while the rest of the body is only roughly outlined. 7 Millerstrom, 2003a, p. 103‑110. 11Tiki are associated with shrines (me’ae), chief’s household units, or ritual places located within the tribal communal complexes (tohua). Tiki may also be linked to fishing shrines (Figure 3). We found a small tiki on the surface of a fishing shrine in Anaho, Nuku Hiva.7 At Paepae Paeke, Nuku Hiva, another site with several tiki, the statues are fully carved and placed on or in the walls of platforms. Figure 3. Anaho, Nuku Hiva. Tioka Puhetini with a tiki discovered on Me’ae Atatai, a fisherman's shrine (331ANA T‑1) Figure 3. Anaho, Nuku Hiva. Tioka Puhetini with a tiki discovered on Me’ae Atatai, a fisherman's shrine (331ANA T‑1) Zoom in Original (jpeg, 408k) ©Millerstrom 12Regarding the Paepae Paeke site, when German ethnographer von den Steinen visited in the 1890s, he was told that each of the 12 tiki present at the site was named after a district in Taipi Valley. The name of one of the tiki was Puamamau Etua. Furthermore, the Paepae Paeke was protected by a tapu (a spiritual protection). The sacredness of the place, the location on top of a peak, and the name of one tiki indicate that this was a me’ae and that one tiki may represent a deified inspirational priest. When the American archaeologist Ralph Linton examined the site in 1920, his guide claimed that the site was neither sacred nor a shrine and the people of Taipi did not know of any names. 13Sometimes statues are directly associated with a chief’s domestic complex. A chief’s house is sometimes referred to as a me’ae in the historic literature. It is possible that an important chief’s house became so infused with supernatural power after his death that the site became sacred and thus became become a shrine as. This is what might have taken place at Paepae Paeke. Structure 14Typically, the size of the head is one third or more of the body’s height. Because the head was considered sacred and the seat of supernatural power (mana), it was the most important part of the statue. Thus, it was carved with careful attention to the smallest details. It is usually resting directly on square shoulders lacking a neck. A tiki at Me’ae Iipona is unusual because of the small size of the head in relation to the body (Figure 4). It is possible that the original head broke off, and the statue and the head were re‑carved to fit into a smooth groove in the upper torso. Round, large, and bulging eyes are usually encircled with a 1‑2‑cm‑wide raised rim under high‑arched eyebrows. Sometimes the eyes have a raised or incised curved line that bisects them from the outer part of the eye to the inner corner of each eye. Some tiki have circular indented pits indicating the pupils. Figure 4. Me'ae Iipona, Puamau, Hiva Oa Figure 4. Me'ae Iipona, Puamau, Hiva Oa Zoom in Original (jpeg, 418k) © Millerstrom 15A broad nose with wide nostrils fills out most of the centre of the face. The outline of the nose goes upward and connects with the eyebrow. High eyebrows reach down on the outer side of the head and link with the ears, resembling the stems of eyeglasses. A long, wide mouth, sometimes with a protruding tongue or even teeth with great canines, covers the lower part of the face. When tattoo occur, they depict anthropomorphic figures, dogs, and geometric motifs. Tattoo are usually placed on the side of the mouth chest or on the thighs. 8 Linton, 1925, p. 74. 16Carved headdresses (hei) are the most common form of decoration, but wreath around the neck, tattoo, short mantles, and hair‑knots on each side of the head occur. Some tiki have drilled circular perforation in the earlobes for placement of earplugs. Takai’i at Me’ae Iipona, has tattoo on the chest and legs, what appears to be a hair knot at the back, and we noted several vertical grooves in each eye, perhaps this was to emphasize their size and the direction of the gaze. The American archaeologist Ralph Linton8 mentions ornamental grooves, circles and chevron patterns on the abdomen and buttocks on some images, but these tattoo design are no longer visible on the tiki we recorded. We do not know if the neck ornaments represent plants or marine material. Perforated shell tabs, pearl pendants, fish, porpoise and whale teeth are found in archaeological deposits. In fact, whale teeth were so treasured that towards the beginning of the Classical Period (1600‑1790) and onwards imitation whale teeth were carved from the lips of Cassi shell. Wreaths of perishable plant material are difficult to ascertain archaeologically. Paul Pétard (1912‑1980), a French ethnobotanist, reported that garlands were strung from the keys of Pandanus (Pandanus tectorius), also referred to as Screw Pine, to decorate the body during feasts. Several varieties of the Pandanus were recognized by the Polynesian according to the various parts of the tree, and the changing colour of the ripening fruit. Garlands strung from the Pandanus keys, especially the red type (ha’a kua), was reserved for garlands to decorate the tiki during feasts and hence tapu or forbidden to commoners. 17Wide, rounded hips and short, stubby extend legs rest on a pedestal. Some tiki have a peg base to secure them in the ground. Legs were considered less important and many images have the legs only indicated, while other sculptures are cut off below the waist. Ankles may be indicated by raised circular knobs. Only a few images depict toes. The back is often carved with spines and buttocks even when the statues are fitted into a stone platform. The tiki recorded by our team vary in height from 32.7 to 250 cm above the ground. The majority of the statues measure between 50 and 100 cm. 18During some ceremonies, the tiki was girdled in tapa or bark clothes. While tapa beating was usually done by women, the loincloth for the tiki were ceremonially beaten by the priest. Early explorers describe old inspirational priests (tuhuna/tuhuka) beating loincloth for the gods. The act was so sacred that the priest could only eat in the evening. Offerings of human victims, animals, fruit, and vegetables were placed in front of the statue or hung in nearby trees. Contributions were placed near the tiki and priest were seen presenting food to the mouth of the statues. Robarts, an English beachcomber that lived eight years in the islands noted that during the memorial feast, food was always sent to the priests at the me’ae. A small portion of the food was placed on the head of the image. Edward Robarts wrote: “This no one eats, being held sacred” (1974). Several of the images we documented have a flat surface on top of the head which may have been a space to place decoration such as a crown of shell, teeth, bones, or plant material as well as offerings to the ancestors. 9 Quoted from E. S. Handy (1923, p. 224) in The Native Culture in the Marquesas: Bernice (...) 19Hands with fingers are most often resting on a protruding abdomen. As ritual knowledge, genealogy and oral tradition were believed to be held in the stomach, hands placed on a protruding belly may have been a way to protect these memories. A tiki, part of Tohua Pehe Kua, Puamau, have the left hand touching the mouth (Figure 5). The reason for this is unknown. At Me’ae Iipona, a headless tiki placed on a terrace below Takai’i has 6 fingers on each hand also resting on a protruding stomach. A circular tattoo on the left ankle indicates that it is a high raking person. A tribal inspirational priest or shaman was called tau’a. Sometimes they would also be called atua (called etua in the Southern group), which means literally god. A shaman could be a male or female. He or she was thought to be persons who could be possessed by spirits or gods and their position were demonstrated by some type of phenomenon or “distinguished by remarkable physical deformity of some kind”.9 This statue is the only one we recorded that showed deformity, although a tiki located at Paepae Paeke, Nuku Hiva, has two heads. However, double‑headed tiki or the Janus figure phenomena seen elsewhere in Polynesian carvings may have different connotations. Figure 5. Tohua Pehe Kua, Puamau, Hiva Oa. The tiki, one of a pair, is presently located at chief Te Hau Moe’s tomb Figure 5. Tohua Pehe Kua, Puamau, Hiva Oa. The tiki, one of a pair, is presently located at chief Te Hau Moe’s tomb Zoom in Original (jpeg, 40M) © Millerstrom 20It is generally assumed that all the tiki represented men. This may not be the case. Leaving out sculptured heads from the calculation, there are 61 torsos and fully carved tiki. Of these 39 sculptures (64.0 percent) have no sex depicted. While 16 sculptures (26.2 percent) represent males, 6 tiki (9.8 percent) represent females. At Paepae Paeke, Taipivai (Nuku Hiva), 4 of the 12 tiki represent females and 4 are males (Figure 6). In the past all tiki had a name, but most of them are forgotten today. According to legends and local informants the tiki with 6 fingers on with both hands at Me’ae Iipona carries names that are both male and female; Te torae e nohu ua, or Maiauto, or Pete ta mu imui are masculine and feminine names. Thus, the male/female distinctions in carved ancestral figures may or may not have been meaningful to the Marquesan in the past. Figure 6. Paepae Paeke, Taipivai, Nuku Hiva. A female tiki carved in red volcanic tuff Figure 6. Paepae Paeke, Taipivai, Nuku Hiva. A female tiki carved in red volcanic tuff Zoom in Original (jpeg, 2,5M) © Millerstrom Material 10 Millerstrom & Edwards, 1998. 11 Linton, 1925, p. 162. 21A total of 31 tiki (37.0 percent) were carved from sacred red volcanic tuff, but some basaltic tiki were once painted red10. When we used artificial light at night to checked on an image at Me’ae Utukua, Punaei Valley, Hiva Oa, we discovered traces of red pigment around the eyes (Figure 7). Ralph Linton11 saw traces of red pigment in protected parts of a statue at Me’ae Iipona, Hiva Oa. Some of the sculptures, 16 (19.0 percent) in total, were carved in a gray or yellow tuff. The remaining 37 sculptures (44.0 percent) were crafted in basalt. Figure 7. Me’ae Utukua, Punaei Valley, Hiva Oa. Figure 7. Me’ae Utukua, Punaei Valley, Hiva Oa. Zoom in Original (jpeg, 433k) ©Photo courtesy C. Chavaillon and E. Oliver 12 Ibid., p. 8‑9, 164‑165. 13 Ibid., p. 8. 22There are numerous quarries in the Marquesas, but none of them have been investigated. Ralph Linton12 writes that all the “great tiki” at Me’ae Iipona were sculptures with material from the quarry of Teohopuapu, located in a small valley in the stream bed on the south‑western side of Teohovevau, Puamau Valley. Both red and gray tuff are found in the quarry. In the same area there is a 10 feet stratum of gray tuff deposit. The outline of a large block, also called ke’etu, has been removed and an unfinished tiki head is still visible. Linton13 mentioned another quarry in Puamau that were quarried for stones for secular structures and a quarry at Hakahetau, Ua Pou. None of these quarries have been visited by our team. 14 Ibid., p. 74‑75. 23Ralph Linton14 claims that the tuff on Nuku Hiva is coarser than the tuff elsewhere and that the sculptures are “technically inferior to those of Hiva Oa”. This has yet to be confirmed. On the beach of the isolated Ha’ata’ive’a Valley, located on the north coast of Nuku Hiva, there are two quarries one on each side of the bay. On the east side, a 2‑3 m wide, red tuff band is exposed in a cliff, and a cave is situated above. In the cave, approximately 5 m above the ground, two anthropomorphic faces are pecked on the floor (Figure 8ab). Rectangular outlines, the results of removing blocks of red tuff, are visible on the north side of the 2‑3 m tuff deposit. At high tide the area is partly submerged, a rough outlined tiki is still in place. A basalt adze quarry with the remains of a white beach rock pavement is situated across the bay. Figure 8. Ha’atai’ve’a, Nuku Hiva. Two petroglyph faces placed on the floor of a rock shelter (331haa 1) Figure 8. Ha’atai’ve’a, Nuku Hiva. Two petroglyph faces placed on the floor of a rock shelter (331haa 1) Zoom in Original (jpeg, 9,2M) © Millerstrom 15 Linton, 1925, p. 165. 24Numerous rituals took place before cutting trees for canoes or quarry stones for tiki. Most of these are now forgotten. In the Polynesian past, all boulders and stones were embodied with supernatural power, but some were thought to be more powerful or sacred than others. Boulders, like all things in nature, were believed to grow in the same manner as people and plants. Te Enana believed that ke’etu “grows slowly but constantly ‑a quality peculiar to it”.15 In fact, carving of stone was so important that certain rituals were observed while quarrying. Workers had to render themselves tapu and has to avoid women prior to working with stones or their tools would break. Conservation Issues 25The stone sculptures, especially those carved in the coarse and soft red and yellow volcanic tuff, are friable. Deterioration of the sculptures due to the exposure of the environment continuous to be a serious threat to the Marquesan cultural remains. Over the years many discussions considering the best way to preserve the sculptures have taken place, e.g., chemical treatment, replace the original with copies, or cover them with roofs. In 2016, conservation efforts have been implemented at Me’ae Iipona, Puamau, a site that receives a relatively large number of tourists. Thatched roofs have been built over each of the most fragile tiki. This certainly will help to slow the deterioration, but in many respects, it may be too late. Since the early 1980s my team and I have noticed slow deterioration of the tiki especially at Me’ae Iipona and Paepae Paeke. In the 1920‑21, Ralph Linton noticed tattoo patterns on the upper and lower legs of Takai’i, such as herringbone patters on the thigh and horizontal grooves on the lower legs. These figures are no longer visible. When our team recorded Takai’i in 1985, we noted 4 vertical grooves in his right eye and 27 vertical grooves in his left eye. These grooves are now difficult to distinguish. 16 Heyerdahl & Ferdon, 1965, p. 127, plate 40c. 26When the Norwegian Archaeological Expedition excavated at Me’ae Iipona in 1956, they made a complete plaster mold, a total of fifty‑nine parts, of Takai’i16. An identical copy was then made for the Kon‑Tiki Museum, Oslo, Norway. In the 1990s, I contacted Arne Sjølsvold at the Kon‑Tiki Museum and asked him if they still had the plaster mold. The plaster cast was made by archaeologists Sjølsvold and Figueroa, members of the Norwegian Archaeological Expedition. Sjølsvold also excavated Me’ae Iipona. While they searched the museum, no mold was found. Sjølsvold speculated that the pieces were thrown away after the copy for the museum was completed. Discussions Age Determination 17 Heyerdahl, 1965, p. 123‑150. 18 Ferdon, 1965, p. 117‑121. 19 The radio carbon age determination for Paeke is 1516 plus or minus 80 year (...) 27To determine the age of the sculptures is challenging. It appears that the conventional image face was first developed in the petroglyphs system and later became part of the tiki face in the sculptures (Figure 9). According to informants in 1890s who could recite approximately 25 generations, Karl von den Steinen, calculated that Me’ae Iipona was constructed circa 1700‑1750. Excavation in 1956 by members of the Norwegian Archaeological Expedition to Easter Island and the East Pacific, financed and directed by Thor Heyerdahl, yielded three significantly earlier radiocarbon dated from about 1300 to 1700 (uncalibrated) for the site17. At Paepae Paeke, Taipivai, Edwin Ferdon18, also a member of the Norwegian Archaeological Expedition, collected an early radiocarbon date, approximately from 1500‑1600. While these dates indicate the occupation of the sites, it is uncertain if the age determinations reflect the age of the associated sculptures19. Suggs (1961), based on his excavations on Nuku Hiva, suggests that the sculptures were first made around 1600‑1700. Rolett noted that the tiki uncovered in Vaitahu (Tahuata) probably dated to the late prehistoric or early historic period, 1700‑1850. Figure 9: Vaitahu, Taipivai, Nuku Hiva. Two mata or tiki faces (333vai 1) Figure 9: Vaitahu, Taipivai, Nuku Hiva. Two mata or tiki faces (333vai 1) Zoom in Original (png, 30k) © Millerstrom 20 Linton, 1925, p. 167. 28The statues at Paepae Poevau, Puamau Valley, were, according to Ralph Linton20 “among the last products of the Marquesan sculptures tradition and prove conclusively that the art of stone carvings was alive and vigorous at the time of the French conquest”. A pervasive art system 21 Linton, 1923, p. 269. 22 It is assumed that human figures are the most numerous Marquesan design element. This (...) 29Polynesian decorative systems e.g., tiki, petroglyphs, pictographs and tattoo, are pervasive. Ralph Linton21 stated that the Marquesan material culture was homogeneous. For example, human images were more often depicted on all Marquesan media (e.g., houses, canoes, implements, and ornaments) than on the same media in the other Polynesian islands or island groups22. Ruth Greiner (1923) numerically demonstrated that the distributions of design elements and motifs used in carving occurred in more Marquesan media than in the islands on Hawaii, Tahiti, Austral, Tonga, Fiji, Samoa, the Cooks, and New Zealand. Unfortunately, Greiner did not have the opportunity to examine Karl von den Steinen’s (1969(I), 1969(II), 1969(III)) seminal work on Marquesan material art. Von den Steinen’s work would have bolstered Greiner’s argument. 23 Walsh & Biggs, 1966. 24 Millerstrom & Allen, 2006. 25 DeBoer, 1991, p. 157. 26 Crook William, 2007 [1797‑1799]. 30A great number of petroglyph faces, stylistically similar to the faces of the sculptures, are often referred to mata both by the local people and in the literature. Mata is also a word linked to numerous tattoo motifs given to von den Steinen in 1897. Mata, a Proto‑Polynesian taxeme refers to eye and face.23 The word has the same meaning in Tonga, Samoa, the Cooks, Easter Islands and among the Maori. Maka is a Hawaiian cognate. Other glosses for mata include genealogy, clan, tribe, or status lineage. This word is still retained in Polynesian dialects indicate that the face motif is connected with important concepts that go far back in Oceanic history. The pervasive mata motif seen in tiki and petroglyphs is also expressed on the surface of, for instance, stilt holders, calabashes, ear plugs, hair ornaments, bark cloth masks, wooden clubs ivory fan handles and so on, collected in the early historic period. There is also a connection between the decoration on tiki, petroglyphs and tattoo.24 They all show remarkable similarities in their decorative systems. This homogeneous decorative system probably identified and intensified the ideology of a group of people. A pervasive art system, furthermore, promotes and reinforces social solidarity in order to maintain belief systems that bolster the political position of the hereditary chief, priests or warriors. Pervasive decorative organization experience much less rate of change that for example an opposing partitive art system.25 These theoretical perspectives have important implications regarding changes in the Marquesan art system and how these changes reflect social transformation. The emphasis on the mata may also have been a way to memorialize, honour, and venerate ancestors. Concern with genealogy was strong in Polynesia. Genealogy linked people with their ancestors and defined their social position to their chiefs. Genealogies were chanted in rites of adoption, birth of a firstborn, marriages, funerals, and so on. Because the head was considered the seat of mana, ancestral skulls were frequently removed from burials and treated as sacred relics. The similarity of much of the archaeological art may be, in part, because the craft specialist (tohuna), despite unrest and warfare, could safely travel between islands.26 Conclusion 27 A version of this essay was presented at the Fourth International Conference on Easter I (...) 31This brief essay on the Marquesan statues presents metric data and some discussion on the statues linked to sacred structures.27 The similarities seen in Marquesan rock art, tattoo, and material objects suggest that the fundamental principles regarding the symbolic order remained unchanged for a long time. Moreover, the homogeneous decorative system demonstrates that the Marquesan adhered to a common ideology and belief system. Stylistically the Marquesan stone tiki are remarkably similar, obviously following certain social rules. However, numerous variations exist suggesting that each tiki not only symbolized important deceased ancestor but in fact represented a specific ancestor. 32The research discussed above is but a small part of the potential wealth of information still to be gleamed from investigating the tiki. Several issues remain to be examined. For example, although the Marquesan tiki are remarkably homogeneous, attribute variations occur. While I speculate that these variations reflect the individual deified ancestor, the stylistic variations could be due to the individual craft‑person, regional or chronological differences, or perhaps associated with the type of material used. Furthermore, is it possible to identify the sex of the 72.8 percent genderless statues by isolating specific male and female characteristics? Futures tiki studies may involve the examination of quarries, as well as to investigate the source of the tiki. To be able to link the source of the statues to the various quarries may reveal information on, for instance, exchange systems, the distance the statues were transported across a challenging landscape, time and efforts of both manufacturing and transportation, division of labour, the limitation of natural resources, social structure or status involved in the quarrying and the carving of the statues, technology and quality of the material, and, in general, social context. Future projects may, furthermore, include the documentation of the anthropomorphic sculptures in museums worldwide and those that are accessible in private collections. Together with the 84 sculptures recorded by my team it will further our knowledge of the Marquesan cultural heritage. Without a doubt, additional tiki will be discovered in the future during archaeological survey, excavation as well as during road and house constructions. Bibliography Books Crook William P., 2007 [1797‑1799], An Account of the Marquesas Islands 1797‑1799, Haere Po, Tahiti, 215 p. Markham Clements, 1904, The Voyages of Pedro Fernandez de Quiros, 1595 to 1606, 2 vol., The Hakluyt Society, London. Millerstrom Sidsel, 2017, Te Henua Enana; Images and Settlement Patterns in the Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia, 67, Contributions of the Archaeological Research Facility, University of California, Berkeley eScholarship, DOI: https://escholarship.org/uc/item/9v38f0zt. [97809890022-5-7] Robart Edward, 1974, The Marquesan Journal of Edward Robarts 1797‑1824, edited by Dening Greg, University Press of Hawai'I, Honolulu, 360 p. [0708106358] Walsh D. S. & Biggs Bruce, 1966, Proto‑Polynesian Word List i, Linguistic Society of New Zealand, Auckland, 133 p. Papers and contributions to books DeBoer Waren R., 1991, “The Decorative Burden: Design, Medium, and Change”, in Longacre William A. (ed.), 2016, Ceramic Ethnoarchaeology, The University of Arizona Press, Tucson, 318 p. [9780816534791] Ferdon Edwin N., 1965, “Surface Architecture of the Site of Paeke, Taipi Valley, Nuku Hiva”, in Heyerdahl Thor & Ferdon Edwin N. (eds.), Reports of the Norwegian Archaeological Expedition to Easter Island and the East Pacific, vol. ii, School of American Research and Kon‑Tiki Museum, Monograph 24, part. 2. Santa Fe, p. 117‑122. Greiner Ruth H., 1923, Polynesian Decorative Designs, B. P. Bishop Museum, Bernice P. Bishop Museum, Bulletin 7, Honolulu, 358 p. Heyerdahl Thor, 1965, “The Statues of the Oipona Me’ae, with a Comparative Analysis of Possibly Related Stone Monuments”, in Heyerdahl Thor & Ferdon Edwin N. (eds.), Reports of the Norwegian Archaeological Expedition to Easter Island and the East Pacific, School of American Research and Kon‑Tiki Museum, Monograph 24, Vol. ii, part. 2, Santa Fe, p. 123‑151. Linton Ralph, 1925, Archaeology of the Marquesas Islands, B. P. Bishop Museum, Bernice P. Bishop Museum Bulletin 23, Honolulu. Millerstrom Sidsel, 1997, “Carved and painted rock images in the Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia”, Archaeology of Oceania, vol. 32, no 3, p. 181‑196. Millerstrom Sidsel & Edwards Edmundo, 1998, “Stone Sculptures of the Marquesas Islands (French Polynesia)”, in Stevenson Christopher M., Lee Georgia & Morin F. J. (eds.), Easter Island in Pacific Context, South Seas Symposium, University of New Mexico, Easter Island Foundation, Proceedings of the Fourth International Conference on Easter Island and East Polynesia, Albuquerque, p. 55‑62, 402 p. [1880636131] Millerstrom Sidsel, 2006, “Ritual and Domestic Architecture, Sacred Places, and Images in the Marquesas Archipelago, French Polynesia”, in Lilley Ian (ed.), Archaeology of Oceania: Australia and the Pacific Islands, Blackwell Publishing, Malden (Mass.), p. 284‑301, 416 p. [9780631230823] Millerstrom Sidsel & Allen Tricia., 2006, “Carved Images and Punctured Skins: Rock Carvings and Tattoos in the Marquesas Islands”, American Indian Rock Art, IRAC Proceedings, Rock Art World Heritage, American Rock Art Association, vol. 21, p. 131‑138. Notes 1 A publication about a tiki exhibit in 2016, Tahiti, just become available. Tiki. Co‑édition Musée de Tahiti et des Iles et Éditions Au Vent des iles. Polynésie Française, 2017. I did not have an opportunity to examine this publication. 2 Their work was published in 2007 by Service de la Culture et du Patrimoine, Ministère de la Cuture de Polynésie Française, Tahiti, called Le patrimoine archéologique de l’île de Hiva Oa (archipel des Marquises). 3 In the 1890s a large anthropomorphic head was taken from Me’ae Iipona, Puamau, Valley, Hiva Oa, by von den Steinen and his crew. It was brought to Germany and is housed in the Ethnographic Museum, Dahlem. The collection will eventually be relocated to the center of Berlin. In 2019, the Ethnographic Museum and Museum of Asian Art are scheduled to reopen in the Humboldt Forum in the reconstructed Berlin City Palace (Berliner Stadtschloss). 4 A stone monument in Vaitahu, Tahuata, raised in 1995 in commemoration of the discovery of the Marquesas Islands by Europeans has the following inscriptions: “FENUA ENATA TERRES DES HOMMES. En 1595, elle fut appelée Îles Marquises, nom qui la fit connaître au reste du monde. Qu’aujourd’hui le monde connaisse son nom d’origine. VATAHU, Le 29 Juillet 1995”. (Fenua Enata, the land of men. In 1595 she was called the Marquesas Islands, a name that become known to the rest of the world. Today the world knows the original name. Vaitahu, July 29, 1995). Because most of my archaeological field research took place in Nuku Hiva, I use the term Te Enana, the men/people rather than Te Enata, the term used in the southern group. 5 Markham, 1904, p. 27‑28. 6 One of the “horizontally placed” tiki is located at Me’ae Iipona. In the 1990s, to everybody’s surprise, a smaller but similar tiki was found below the site Meaiaute. Meaiaute is a small me’ae located on a peak in Hane Valley, Ua Huka. Three tiki and one slab with petroglyph are placed at the edge of a pavement. It is unknown where on the site the “horizontally placed” tiki was originally placed. 7 Millerstrom, 2003a, p. 103‑110. 8 Linton, 1925, p. 74. 9 Quoted from E. S. Handy (1923, p. 224) in The Native Culture in the Marquesas: Bernice P. Bishop Museum Bulletin 9. Honolulu. 10 Millerstrom & Edwards, 1998. 11 Linton, 1925, p. 162. 12 Ibid., p. 8‑9, 164‑165. 13 Ibid., p. 8. 14 Ibid., p. 74‑75. 15 Linton, 1925, p. 165. 16 Heyerdahl & Ferdon, 1965, p. 127, plate 40c. 17 Heyerdahl, 1965, p. 123‑150. 18 Ferdon, 1965, p. 117‑121. 19 The radio carbon age determination for Paeke is 1516 plus or minus 80 years. The following three dates from Me’ae Iipona are: 1) 1316 plus or minus 100 years; 2) 1497 plus or minus 200 years; 3) 1487 plus or minus 150 years. It should be noted that these dates are uncalibrated and the charcoal samples has not been identified. Furthermore, the dates do not necessary represent the first use of the site nor can we be sure that the dates correspond to the time the tiki were made. 20 Linton, 1925, p. 167. 21 Linton, 1923, p. 269. 22 It is assumed that human figures are the most numerous Marquesan design element. This may be solely due to the fact that human figures are more recognizable. Quantitative analysis of the 3 379 petroglyphs recorded in Hatiheu Valley, Nuku Hiva, demonstrates that abstract geometric figures prevail. As a whole, 998 anthropomorphic figures account for 29,5 percent whereas 2121 petroglyphs or 62,8 percent depict abstract geometric motifs. The situation in the western section, the research area of Hatiheu Valley, show a similar pattern, Millerstrom, 2017. In the painted rock shelters of Eiaone Valley, Hiva Oa, anthropomorphs are represented by 20 figures (18,2 percent), while 50 (45.5 percent) are geometric figures. 23 Walsh & Biggs, 1966. 24 Millerstrom & Allen, 2006. 25 DeBoer, 1991, p. 157. 26 Crook William, 2007 [1797‑1799]. 27 A version of this essay was presented at the Fourth International Conference on Easter Island and East Polynesia. University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, USA, 5‑10 August 1997. It was subsequently published with my colleague Edmundo Edwards in 1998. Millerstrom & Edwards, 1998. List of illustrations Title Figure 1. The Marquesas Archipelago, French Polynesia Credits © Map courtesy Melinda Allen 2016 URL http://books.openedition.org/pressesinalco/docannexe/image/33727/img-1.png File image/png, 48k Title Figure 2. Me'ae Iipona, Puamau, Hiva Oa. Takai’i and a sitting tiki Credits © Millerstrom URL http://books.openedition.org/pressesinalco/docannexe/image/33727/img-2.jpg File image/jpeg, 1,1M Title Figure 3. Anaho, Nuku Hiva. Tioka Puhetini with a tiki discovered on Me’ae Atatai, a fisherman's shrine (331ANA T‑1) Credits ©Millerstrom URL http://books.openedition.org/pressesinalco/docannexe/image/33727/img-3.jpg File image/jpeg, 408k Title Figure 4. Me'ae Iipona, Puamau, Hiva Oa Credits © Millerstrom URL http://books.openedition.org/pressesinalco/docannexe/image/33727/img-4.jpg File image/jpeg, 418k Title Figure 5. Tohua Pehe Kua, Puamau, Hiva Oa. The tiki, one of a pair, is presently located at chief Te Hau Moe’s tomb Credits © Millerstrom URL http://books.openedition.org/pressesinalco/docannexe/image/33727/img-5.jpg File image/jpeg, 40M Title Figure 6. Paepae Paeke, Taipivai, Nuku Hiva. A female tiki carved in red volcanic tuff Credits © Millerstrom URL http://books.openedition.org/pressesinalco/docannexe/image/33727/img-6.jpg File image/jpeg, 2,5M Title Figure 7. Me’ae Utukua, Punaei Valley, Hiva Oa. Credits ©Photo courtesy C. Chavaillon and E. Oliver URL http://books.openedition.org/pressesinalco/docannexe/image/33727/img-7.jpg File image/jpeg, 433k Title Figure 8. Ha’atai’ve’a, Nuku Hiva. Two petroglyph faces placed on the floor of a rock shelter (331haa 1) Credits © Millerstrom URL http://books.openedition.org/pressesinalco/docannexe/image/33727/img-8.jpg File image/jpeg, 9,2M Title Figure 9: Vaitahu, Taipivai, Nuku Hiva. Two mata or tiki faces (333vai 1) Credits © Millerstrom URL http://books.openedition.org/pressesinalco/docannexe/image/33727/img-9.png File image/png, 30k Author Sidsel Millerstrom University of California, Berkeley, Oceanic Archaeology Lab, Archaeological Research Facilities (ARF) By the same author Petroglyphs of the Society Islands within the Polynesian Rock Art Repertoire in Encyclopédie des historiographies : Afriques, Amériques, Asies, Presses de l’Inalco, 2020 © Presses de l’Inalco, 2020 OpenEdition Books License Textes de stèles de grands moines (Corée) Titres Primordiaux (Amérique latine post‑colombienne)

The ancient Marquesan anthropomorphic sculptures or tiki have received wide attention since they were first noted in 1595. However, they have not been systematically and scientifically studied until 1984. Stylistically the Marquesan stone tiki followed certain social rules with similar characteristics to tattoos and material objects.

More exploration of the dramatic Marquesas. These islands were once the home of tens of thousands of Polynesians, with stone temples and a vibrant culture. Now one finds small, well kempt villages with friendly

SY PISCES 🇺🇸 Mary & Kevin - Antares 44e’

PISCIS-Mary
CATWEAXZLE

SY CATWEAZLE 🇬🇧 Harriet & Russell - Allures 45′

CATWEAZLECATWEAZLE

SY SEAGLUB Chris - Hylas 46′

SEAGLUB Chris
Jackiron

Jackiron at anchor in Atuona, Marquesas, French Polynesia

CONGRATULATIONS

Bravo Zulu

SY JACK IRON Kent & Michele -Valiant 42′

JACK IRON KentJACK IRON Michelle
BRAVO ZULU

5) MONSOON'S TAKE

sandspit and sky

palmfringe and beach

palm fringe and beach

walk about

walkabout

Sunset

SY MONSOON Travis, Yeen Yee, Rowan , Everyn - Fuji 32'

MONSOON Yeen YeeMONSOON CrewMONSOON Crew

6) SAVE THE DATE

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8) CYCLONE HOLES 🇫🇯 FIJI

Tied up in Mangrroves

From sailingtoday.co.uk

"Winston, a category 5 storm traveling with winds at its center of 163 knots was closer than we wanted, but once communications were lost we didn’t know how close.

By 1800hrs the wind was 40 knots and rising steadily. The sound from the exposed top half of the rigging intensified to a piercing shriek. The dull groan from the hull swelled to a pulsing throb as the gale ripped over us at 100 knots. Il Silenzio was being thrown about in the dark like a drunken cork, but we trusted her steel hull and the preparations we had made.

ZAZOO

Zazoo's João up on the mast in the cyclone hole

Then we waited. More anchor checking. More rope adjustments.

More was to come in the form of an onslaught of rain in dense sheets, with flashes of lightning and crashing thunder. The initial wind direction created a tide surge and this surge, combined with the low spring tide, drained the river. Il Silenzio touched the bottom in the early hours of the morning and at low water was lying on her hull at about 40˚ on a cushion of mud. Even less windage in this position meant greater stability. Sleep was impossible at this angle, so we sat and listened to the drama playing out above us.

As the storm eased towards morning, the tide came in and Il Silenzio popped up. Our fitful dozing drifted into a restless sleep, difficult in 34-degree heat, but possible after a sleepless night. With the worst winds abated by late morning we assessed the damage. No boats had broken free and damage was minimal. Il Silenzio was in good shape, apart from a lawn of shredded mangrove leaves enveloping the deck. Our bolthole had been a good one."

A matrix of ropes reminiscent of spaghetti was the result. With a muddy bottom for good anchoring and a small catchment with not too much runoff, this was an excellent refuge. We filled the dinghy with water for stabilising weight, everything was taken off the deck, the headsail was removed and the mainsail tightly lashed. Then we waited. More anchor checking. More rope adjustments.

A matrix of ropes reminiscent of spaghetti was the result. With a muddy bottom for good anchoring and a small catchment with not too much runoff, this was an excellent refuge. We filled the dinghy with water for stabilising weight, everything was taken off the deck, the headsail was removed and the mainsail tightly lashed.

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10) SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE
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  • HIGHEST WIND RECORDED ✔
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11) MANUAL TRACKING WITH PREDICT WIND

SWITCH OVER

VIA THE OFFSHORE APP

DEADLINE JULY 1 2023

How to use GPS Manual Tracking in the Offshore App.

GPS Manual Tracking using the Offshore App can be achieved on PC, Mac, iOS and Android devices. The screenshots below are taken using a PC computer, the general principle is the same across all devices, but the look of the App may differ slightly to the screenshots below if you are using Mac, iOS or Android

NOTE ; If you have automated GPS tracking set up via a satellite device you cannot manual track as well. You will need to contact our Support Team if you would like to switch from automated to manual tracking.

Predict WInd

Log in to your Offshore App and go to the GPS tracking tab on the left. It should look like this.

green

2. Select the Green Download button on the left. Make sure you have selected GPS tracking. Nothing else needs to be ticked for now.

DOWNLOAD ALL

3. Click through to Next > Download All

DOWNLOAD

4. You should now see yourself off the coast of Africa at 0lat0long in the Default position set for tracking pages. However, you will now be able to see this icon that lets you add a manual GPS location.

 5. Click on it to add your current GPS coordinates and time. Select NOW for the current time. Then select Save Point.

5. Click on it to add your current GPS coordinates and time. Select NOW for the current time. Then select Save Point.

Manual position

6. It will then notify that you have a Tracking Point pending upload/download.

DOWNLOAD

7. Do another Download the same as last time, and your Tracking point will be uploaded and synchronized with the server. Your tracking page will now reflect your updated position for friends, family and fleet to see.

TRACKING

12) SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE
FLEET TRACKING

Tracking

13) BOLO ALERT
⚠️

BOLO NE of Marquesas, French Polynesia:

BOLO NE of Marquesas, French Polynesia:

Vessel: "SMILES ROWBOAT", MMSI 338399051, U.S. flag

Aaron Carotta on "Smiles* has lost all power and charging capability. He has no comms nor functional navigation equipment. He is also low on food. He therefore set off his PLB on May 28 at 05°15S 119°00W. It pinged only briefly. There was a second ping received on May 31 with new coordinates of 5° 30.00' S 122° 00.00' W.

The coordinates of the two beacons showed movement of 180 miles @ 266°.

Based on the assumption that Aaron is still rowing, his estimated location could be as far out, on June 7, 2023, 20:56 UTC, as

5° 45.360' S

126° 37.547' W

Aaron's destination is the Marquesas. At the time of last social media update, Aaron communicated his desire to make more southerly and was being hindered by wind and ocean conditions. The bearing from the second ping to the northernmost Marquesas anchorage is 259°. He has a compass to steer by, but no way to know his position.

Please be on the lookout when approaching that area and report any sightings. Anybody who can help search or BOLO for Aaron should FIRST be in touch with JRCC Tahiti AND ALSO with our FB group to ensure good communication/coordination.

Contact info for Tahiti JRCC:

Email: contact@jrcc.pf

Phone: 0068 940 541 616

FB Group to contact: In Search of Adventure Aaron Carotta

https://www.facebook.com/groups/186285441048310/

If you have means to contact other vessels which may be in the area, please send them the above info, or post on the Facebook page above so one of Aaron's team can try to reach them.

BOLO

Those are all the boats in the area, their registration names and radio IDs and which direction and speed they are heading etc. if they all worked together and honed into a predicted location, they could find SMILES hopefully. Difficulty is knowing if he’s rowing or not. Personally Id conserve energy and water and just float as this also means he would be closer to his last known position

BOLO

14) FREE ACCESS TO GOOD NAUTICAL

IF YOU ARE SIGNED UP FOR THE '23 SOUTH PACIFIC POSSE you will be assigned access credentials to GOODNAUTICAL South Pacific regions

 

Good Nautical

CONSIDER MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION TO GOOD NAUTICAL

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15) HISTORIC PORTS ⚓ OF THE SOUTH PACIFIC

VAVA'U 🇹🇴 TONGA

VAVUA

When Captain James Cook arrived in Tonga in 1773, the local king, or Tu'i Tonga, did not intentionally lie to him. However, there might be some confusion or miscommunication that led to misunderstandings between the two parties.

During Cook's visit, he encountered Fatafehi Paulaho, who claimed to be the Tu'i Tonga, the ruling chief of Tonga. However, Fatafehi Paulaho was not the legitimate Tu'i Tonga but rather a local chief who assumed the title. It is believed that he used the opportunity of Cook's visit to elevate his status and gain recognition.

It's important to note that Tonga had a complex social and political structure at the time, with multiple chiefs and sub-chiefs. The concept of a single, central ruler, like the Tu'i Tonga, held different meanings and roles depending on the period and context.

So, while Fatafehi Paulaho may have presented himself as the Tu'i Tonga and Cook might have believed him initially, it wasn't a deliberate act of deception by the king. It was more likely a result of the complexities of Tonga's social structure and the differences in understanding between the two cultures.

Double-hulled canoes, Tonga

Tonga's ability to resist colonization can be attributed to several factors:

Geographic Isolation
Tonga is located in the South Pacific, which made it relatively isolated from major colonial powers during the era of European colonization. The distance and lack of easily accessible resources reduced the incentive for colonizers to establish a permanent presence in Tonga.

Strong Monarch
Tonga had a well-established and centralized monarchy, with a long history of rule by the Tu'i Tonga and later the Tu'i Kanokupolu. The monarchy provided a source of stability and authority, allowing the Tongans to maintain a unified front against potential colonizers.

Skilled Navigators
Tongans had a strong tradition of navigation and seafaring. They were adept sailors and had developed sophisticated navigation techniques, allowing them to explore and interact with other Pacific islands. This expertise and knowledge of the seas might have made potential colonizers wary of engaging with Tonga.

Diplomacy & Negotiation
Tonga had a tradition of diplomatic relationships with foreign powers. Tongan leaders, such as King George Tupou I, engaged in diplomatic negotiations with European powers, establishing treaties that recognized Tonga's independence and sovereignty. These treaties, along with Tonga's diplomatic efforts, helped protect the kingdom from colonization.

Internal Unity & Resistance
The Tongan people had a strong sense of cultural identity and unity, which contributed to their ability to resist colonization. There were instances where Tongans actively resisted attempts at colonization, demonstrating their commitment to preserving their way of life and sovereignty.

Tonga was never formally colonized
it did enter into a treaty relationship with Britain in 1900, known as the Treaty of Friendship. Under this treaty, Tonga maintained its independence but recognized Britain's influence in matters of foreign policy and defense. Tonga remains the only Pacific island nation to never have been fully colonized.

Tonga Sailing

Captain Cook and the ‘Friendly Islands’?

Captain Cook first landed in the Tongan islands on 2 October 1773, during his second Pacific voyage. In 1774 he returned for four days and received such a warm welcome that he named Tonga the “Friendly Islands”. However, it is now widely thought that the Tongan chiefs had planned to attack Cook and his crew and seize the Resolution and Adventure.

CAPTAIN COOK

The first account of the supposed plot against the Resolution was given by William Mariner, a young man serving on the British privateer Port au Prince when it was attacked in Lifuka in 1806. Twenty-six of the crew survived. Mariner was adopted by the chief Finau ‘Ulukalala-‘i-Ma‘ofanga and lived in Tonga for four years. |

Finau told Mariner that the “Feenow” Cook had known was his father, who had been instrumental in planning an attack on Cook. The plan was called off when the chiefs disagreed about whether to attack under cover of darkness or during the day.

Fīnau ʻUlukālala I (or his brother) on Vavaʻu in 1793, in Jacques-Julien Houtou de Labillardiere, Voyage in Search of La Perous

Fīnau ʻUlukālala I (or his brother) on Vavaʻu in 1793, in Jacques-Julien Houtou de Labillardiere,

When Mariner returned to London, he was contacted by John Martin, an ethnographically-minded doctor. Together they authored An Account of the Natives of the Tonga Islands (1817), one of the most accurate accounts of Tongan life in the early 19th century. In the opinion of most scholars, Mariner’s account is accurate. So was the plot to kill Cook in Tonga real, and was Cook so naïve as to be oblivious to the danger? There are some factors to take into account.

When the Port au Prince was attacked in 1806, Tonga had been in the grip of civil war for seven years. The prosperous and scattered people Cook had observed were corralled inside guarded fortresses and slowly starving as harvest after harvest was destroyed by neglect and attacking armies. The different island groups were controlled by warring chiefs, each aware of the advantage which possession of European firearms and iron goods would afford them in their political and economic struggles.

The outbreak of the civil war had very little to do with European arrivals. Tensions between the three chiefly lineages holding spiritual, administrative and political authority had been mounting for nearly two decades, and came to a head with the assassination of chief Tuku‘aho in 1799. By the time Mariner was living with Finau ‘Ulukalala-‘i-Ma‘ofanga, it was deemed expedient to have a European or two to assist in battles, and as a kind of status symbol.

Tonga. Natche, Ceremony in Honour of King's Son. Cook c1784 by Cook, Captain James The Natche, a Ceremony in Honour of the King's Son, in Tongataboo - a grand and reverent ceremony.

Original copperplate engraving after the drawing by the Admiralty-appointed official artist on the voyage, John Webber (1751-1793). This engraving is part of a series of 78 plates, based on Webber's drawings to include indigenous people, artifacts and views. It was published for Anderson’s “Complete History of Captain Cook's First, Second and Third Voyages” published in London published by Alexander Hogg circa 1784.

HIS MAJESTY KING TUPOU VI OF TONGA Born ‘Aho‘eitu ʻUnuakiʻotonga Tukuʻaho, on 12 July 1959 in Nuku’alofa, he is the 3rd son and youngest of four children of Their late Majesties King Taufa’ahau Tupou IV and Queen Halaevalu Mata’aho.

HIS MAJESTY KING TUPOU VI OF TONGA

Born ‘Aho‘eitu ʻUnuakiʻotonga Tukuʻaho, on 12 July 1959 in Nuku’alofa, he is the 3rd son and youngest of four children of Their late Majesties King Taufa’ahau Tupou IV and Queen Halaevalu Mata’aho.

‘Aho’eitu ‘Unuaki ‘o Tonga Tuku’aho received three chiefly titles as is customary in the Tongan tradition, He commonly used these titles Prince ‘Ulukalala Lavaka Ata, until he became Crown Prince.

Prince ‘Ulukalala Lavaka Ata was educated at The Leys School, Cambridge then attended the University of East Anglia in 1980 where he graduated with a degree in Development Studies.

Upon returning to Tonga in 1982, the young prince joined the Navy at the Tonga Defence Services and gaining promotion to Lieutenant-Commander in 1987.

He graduated from the US Naval War College in 1988 and from 1990 to 1995 he took command of the Pacific-class patrol boat VOEA Pangai and led peace keeping missions in Bougainville.

In 1997, he graduated with a Masters in Defence Studies from the University of New South Wales and in 1999 he earned a MA in International Relations from Bond University, Australia.

Prince ‘Ulukalala Lavaka Ata joined the civil service in 1998 occupying two portfolios, Minister for Defence and Minister for Foreign Affairs. He was appointed Prime Minister from January 2000 to February 2006. Later that year he received the title Crown Prince Tupouto’a Lavaka when his elder brother became King George Tupou V.

In 2008, the Crown Prince was appointed Tonga’s first High Commissioner to Australia and Ambassador to Japan until his succession to the Throne in 2012, when his brother King George Tupou V passed away and immediately became King and Head of State.

His Majesty Tupou VI was formally crowned King in July 2015 in a series of ancient private and public ceremonies and religious services attended by both regional and global leaders who travelled to Tonga for this special occasion.

His Majesty married Nanasipauʻu Vaea on 11 December 1982 who his accession to the Throne became Her Majesty Queen Nanasipauʻu Tukuʻaho of Tonga.

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tonga vava'u

TONGA VAVA'U PORT GUIDE

The Vava’u Island group in the Kingdom of Tonga is a spectacular tropical island paradise in the Pacific Ocean. It has a year-round climate suitable for swimming, snorkelling, diving and sailing. Some islands are ringed by white sand beaches while others have tropical forests, sea-level caves, and dramatic limestone cliffs with breath-taking vistas.

DOWNLOAD THE 2023 TONGA PORT GUIDE >>

Greg

Services available from Port Officer Greg:

  • Assistance with clearing in formalities
  • Offshore assist via offshoreassist@vavau.to
  • Advanced Notice forms – Fiji/NZ/Australia.
  • Courier package assistance/advice on request
  • Charts/Courtesy flags for the Pacific/Asia • Receiver of recycling/Used Oil/Battery/etc.
  • Harbour wifi provider and free info, weather etc. via a Walled Garden
  • AIS host via www.marinetraffic.com  ADS-B via www.flightradar24.com
  • Laundry: the only frontloading rain water and gas laundry in Tonga. Max 9kg per load. Wash / Dry / Fold / Spin
  • Espresso Coffee/Café/Bread/all day breakfast/lunch/Dinner
  • Provisioning for whales/picnics/passage.
  • Pre shop of supermarket provision items
  • Ice cubes and 2kg solid ice blocks – rain water
  • Drinking water: potable filtered rain water, your container or our 20 litre loan container, free car ride to your yacht at wharf or small boat marina
  • Fully licenced bar
  • Vava’u Deli: meats, delicatessen items
  • Rain water hot shower
  • Retail Store – carvings/maps/soaps/postcards/ magnets/iron on flags/lapel pins/cuff links…
  • Vava’u vanilla/coconut oil
  • Resell TCC/Digicel phone credit
  • Resell Kingdom Koffee. Beans and Ground (to order)
  • Free booking and information service
  • Huge free book swap and reference library
  • TV (11TB) and (10TB Movie (8000+) Documentaries, Concerts, Music, Comedy, Children, Fitness, Christian).
  • www.offloop.net/media password tropo Research and basic shopping cart
  • Overnight computer update/download service
  • Rentals – mountain bikes, kayaks, snorkel gear, tents, cars, scooters
  • Butane Gas tank refill service
  • Local news/info feed Facebook “Tonga Expats and Locals”Gift Vouchers
  • Agents for Boat House Apartments in the harbour
  • Show your support for this information https://www.buymeacoffee.com/tropicana
  • Snail Mail/Courier arrangements –please advise before sending
    Yacht in transit SY Yacht Name

c/- Café Tropicana

Fatafehi Rd (or Private Bag 34 for Postal Service)

Neiafu

Vava’u

Kingdom of Tonga +676 71322 tropicana@vavau.to

 

Port officer’s name: Greg Just

Best way to contact: Cellphone

PO contact information:

Email: greg@vavau.to

Twitter: @tongamazingweb

Instagram: tongamazingcom

Linkedin: tongamazingcom

Viber: +6768812347

Phone +676 71322 (Café Tropicana)

Mobile: +676 8812347 or +676 7512347

VHF Ch: 26

Home Address: Mt Talau

Citizen: NZ/UK/Tonga

Divemaster     IT Manager     Analyst/IT/Fin/Proj

Yachtie       Master Drycleaner (nz)

Website: www.vavau.to/Tropicana

Agent  www.tongasuperyachts.com

For Sale https://cafetropicana.company.site/

Menu  https://cafetropicanavavau.business.site/

Tourism portals

www.vavau.to

www.haapai.to

www.tongatapu.to

www.whaleswim.to

www.whitepages.com

www.sailingtonga.com

www.tongamazing.com

www.tongaholidays.com

 

 

Services available within walking distance:

  •  Hardware : EM Jones, (PTH is out of town)
  •  Laundry: Café Tropicana and Bubbles Laundry
  •  Supermarkets – China Fortune, Neiafu Shopping Centre and various others,
  •  Produce and Fish down at the market on the waterfront
  •  Arts and Crafts market next to vegetable market on the waterfront, also Langafonua next to Tourism
  •   Post Office
  •  Police and Fire Station
  •   Duty Free Shop
  •  Historical – Pounu Park
  •  Scenic – Mt Talau National Park
  •   Cafe/Restaurant/Bar: Cafe Tropicana bar and grill, Kraken Restaurant and Bar, Bella Vista, Sam Restaurant,  Basque Tavern, Falalaleu Deli,  Mango Cafe (re-opens May 2023), Tongan Beach Resort (reopens May 2023)
  •  Transport:
  •  Mountain Bike and Kayak hire in Café Tropicana
  •  Ana Tevunga Taxi Stand: Phone +676 8872525 +676 7519622
  •  Max Taxi Stand +676 8707686 VHF 13
  •  Lulutai Tonga Domestic Airline +676 71115 next to Tourism
  • lepani.baleinausori@lulutai-airlines.to no website
  • Domestic National Ferries – freight/passage - Kelesi (Ko e Kelesi Pe) +676 7770965
  • osimiki@gmail.com No website
  • FISA (Otu AngaOfa and Niu Vaki) +676 23853 friendlyislandshippingagency@gmail.com www.friendlyislandshippingagency.com
  • Tofa Ramsay (Taka I Pomana and Vaomapa) +676 7725972 ramsayshippingcompany@gmail.com No website  Services available in area covered:

 

Superyacht Agencies

Yachthelppacific.com - David Hunt/ Hakula Lodge

Super Yacht Services Tonga – Derek Leonard/Julie Goss

Tongasuperyachts.com - Cafe Tropicana

Slipways

Fishing slipway for smaller monohulls

Pafilios slipway for multihulls

The Boatyard Vava’u - Mono and multihulls on hard storage.

www.theboatyardvavau.com

Water

Town supply water available at Moorings/Riki Tiki by appointment please

Rain water from Café Tropicana

Rain water showers at Café Tropicana

Fuel

Fuel available at Moorings or fuel stations.

Duty free fuel at check-out wharf Min 200litres 70972. Pacific Fuels booked 24-48 hours prior to departure. See page 5 for info

•          Duty Free Alcohol

Leiola Duty Free +676 70148 next to Cafe Tropicana, 24 hours prior to departure pay for order, Leiola will deliver to Customs, you show receipt to Customs at Wharf and check off items, customs will take to your yacht.

•          Trades

-      Rigging/Skipper. See Mary at Café Tropicana

-      Welding/Fabrication. Friendly Island Fabrication Ken 8437123  friendlyislandfabrication@gmail.com

-      Vava’u Shipwrights – The Boatyard Vava’u +8816854

-      Diesel mechanic Tau +676 8731368 +676 8627252 -The Yachtshop Tonga:Chandlery +676 8816855 https://cnmmarine.com/ Shopify

 

Local cruising NET:

•      VHF Cruisers Net VHF Channel 26 8.30am each morning except Sunday. Alternative VHF 06

https://www.facebook.com/vavaucruisersnet

 

VHF Cruisers Net Order of service

Emergency/priority traffic

Check-ins

Arrivals and departures

Weather

Buy/sell/trade

Crew available/wanted

Local special events

Anything else

Brief adverts from local business Local Charts and Chartlets:

•          Sailingbirds Guide to Vava’u/Ha’apai sold at Café Tropicana

•          www.vavau.to/marineguide free pdf for all of Tonga. Created by Cafe Tropicana

•          NZ822 / NZ82 / NZ14605 / NZ14602/ 2691 Fiji A0 charts and laminated A3 Chartlets – sold at Café Tropicana

•          www.vavau.to/weather all the weather in one spot!

•          GigGuide/Calendar with summary of local regulations. The Vaa’u Blue Water Festival is late September, other local events are on the calendar. www.vavau.to/gig guide 2023.pdf   VHF Channels:

•          06 Backup channel for VHF Net

•          09 Beluga dive/Beluga moorings

•          11 Te Pana Island

•          13 Max Taxi

•          16 Hailing ONLY – Mayday/Pan Pan etc.

•          26 Repeater channel – VHF Net and used for long range communication, please be considerate, if you are talking to vessels that are close to you. Be aware this channel is monitored by Customs, Police, Governor and Tourism!

•          71 Game Fishing

•          72 Moorings/Sunsail calling

•          73 Moorings/Sunsail working

•          74 Whale watching operators

•          77 Mounu Island

•          Please be considerate and discrete on all VHF channels, especially the above and move to a non-working channel as soon as practical…

08, 14, 17, 68 Common chat channels, be aware nosy people may follow you and listen in….

Other useful information specific to this area:

•          SPEED limit in the harbour 5 knot – and/or no WAKE.

Be aware of wake for other yachts, swimmers, divers, fisherman turtles, whales! By order Marine and Ports Harbourmaster.

•          Please consider the environment and follow MARPOL rules and go 12 nautical miles to dump septic waste.

•          Please walk on the pavement/sidewalk – NOT the road, this is a LEFT side driving country, the roads, drivers and cars are not very good. If no sidewalk walk on the right side of the road (against traffic so you can see vehicles)

•          Cover and clean any open wounds, flies carry staph bacteria. Stay out of the sea, especially the first 50 metres from shore.

Beware of Alofi a tall Tongan hawker – flag maker/bread/ feasts etc. Rows a dinghy and rides a bike. Report any problems to the Police, or Ministry of Tourism. He does homemade flags from tshirt
material, charges for everything he does and frequently exaggerates about services he offers. Cruises through town on a bicycle to show

you his guest book from other cruisers, AVOID talking to him...

•        Special Management Areas/Fish Habitat Reserve

SMA/FHR are now in place, the legislation is designed to protect the breeding areas and environment. Fees to anchor, snorkel and dive can be levied by the village whose waters are protected. Officers carry ID, give receipts etc.

An old sma/fhr map is available  https://vavau.to/Tonga_SMA-flier.pdf   it is being updated soon.

•        Whale watching regulations 2013

1.Unless you are in a licenced whale watching or whale swimming vessel, you are not allowed to approach any whale closer than

300m

2.    Swimming with whales is prohibited unless you are on a licenced vessel and in the water with a certified guide.

3.    If a whale surfaces near you, you should change the course of your vessel, in a safe manner, and move 300m from the whales at no-wake speed.

4.    Kayaking with humpback whales is prohibited unless the kayak is launched from a licenced vessel.

5.    No jet Skis are allowed within 2km of any whale.

First time offence is a fine of between $1,000 and $5,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 18 months

Repeat offence is a fine of between $1000 and $10000 and/or imprisonment of upto 3 years.

https://vavau.to/TongaWhaleWatchingandSwimmingRegulations2013.pdf

•        Do not feed street dogs, they might bite the next person walking by with food who does not feed them….imagine if it is child… Please report dog bites to the Police

Non-Government Organisations/Charities/Volunteering:

•        VVMRA Vava’u Volunteer Marine Response Association

Monitors VHF 26/16 24 x 7, responds to local and EPIRB (via RCC NZ), works with Tonga police, and locals/yachts based in Vava’u for emergency Response www.vvmra.org

VHF 16/26 “Vava’u Radio” emergency, not general enquiries

Cell +8465645 Brian

P O Box 43 Neiafu, Vava’u, Kingdom of Tonga

•        VEPA Vava’u Environmental Protection Association. An environmental NGO based in Vava’u. Mangrove, education, turtle and other conservation. Located next to the Bookshop in the middle of town. www.vavauenvironment.org

Accepting volunteers https://vavauenvironment.org/volunteer/

•        Vava’u Public Library The first public library in Tonga and a self-funded NGO.

Accepting volunteers for english story reading Saturday morning and English childrens books Membership $5 a year

https://www.facebook.com/groups/225935794136987

•        VCT/VBWS Vava’u Community Trust. Youth NGO Trust.

Employment, education. Owns Vava’u Blue Water School (Sailing and swimming school),

Accepting volunteers to repair our training vessel SY Lobo and other projects

https://www.facebook.com/vavaucommunitytrust

•        Host A Vet Partners with Vets to conduct Clinics/Surgeries/ Neutering, free medicines etc. See The Yacht Shop for donations etc  https://www.facebook.com/hostavet

•        Vava’u Breast Cancer Committee. Based in Vava’u working solely to assist Vava’uan women with breast cancer. Transport, treatment and accommodation

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070118191741

Pens, paper, drawing pencils etc,Toothpaste/Tooth brushes,  English childrens books, reading glasses. Accepted and distributed by Café Tropicana, or we can make suggestions if you wish to drop them off yourselves. We can also suggest places to Volunteer your time…

Must See and do in VAVA’U:

  • Sunday Tongan Feast
  • Walk up Mt Talau National Park; magnificent views from lookout platforms
  • Swallows and Mariners cave tour
  • Kava circle at Fire station or any village
  • Sunday church service 10am for amazing singing at Catholic Cathedral, English service at City Impact Church in Toula
  • Talau Cemetery – Palangi Cemetery
  • Pouonu Park – birth place of Vava’u Code
  • Kilikilitefua Wall (Makave) the old census system
  • Catholic Cathedral
  • Beaches (Eneio Private), Keitahi (Private), Talihau Beach, Ano Beach, Holeva Beach
  • Toula cemetery and Veimumuni Caves
  • ‘Utula’aina (Holonga), ‘Esi ‘o Salota (Holonga), Hila Ki Tapana/I ‘o

Mata’aho (Leimatua), Tufutele Pool (Mataika), Rock Island Beach

(Holeva), Vaipua, Ngofe-Reed fields (Tu’anuku), Mo’ungalafa

(Tu’anuku), Longamapu. Lolo ‘a Halavalu (Neiafu), Fa ko Fiem’a

(Vai ko lelea) (Neiafu), Sia ‘o Kafoa (Taoa), ‘Api ‘o Maka (Taoa),

Loto ‘a afitu (Makave), Mapu ‘a Tonga (Makave), Nga ‘unoho

(Talihau), ‘Out Mala (Talihau), ‘Otualea (Ha’alaufuli), To ‘anga’ofa

(Utui) www.vavau.to or www.tongatourism.travel for other tourist information

Map of Vava’u harbour with description:

International Clearance Berthing Note:

Pacific Fuels – Petrol/diesel:

Duty free is available once the vessel is cleared out from the final port. It can be shared to meet minimums. Duty free is a significant saving, Fiji does not do duty free fuel. Fuel bunker is closed for trucks if a bunker boat is in the harbour.  Appointment times are indicative only. Duty free is about 30% cheaper than the retail price at the pump (15% CT/15% Duty).

 

Vava’u

Phone: 70972 NO VHF

Email: tuiaki.kauvaka@p.energy

Website: www.p.energy

Hours 9am to 4.30pm  M to F

GPS coordinates: at Wharf  18°39'6.97"S 173°59'9.03"W

OFFICE Toula fuel Bunker  18°40'36.58"S 173°59'8.61"W

 

Vava’u Minimum 24-48 hours’ notice. Cash Only. Duty free 200litres Min but boats can share. Duty free generally delivered after 10am to the wharf and AFTER customs have given clearance papers. MUST be last Tongan port. Tanker refills petrol stations Monday morning and Friday afternoon.  Nuku’alofa

Phone:   22511 22397          VHF Ch: None

Email: ifalemi.tauheluhelumau@p.energy

Website: www.p.energy

 

Tongatapu Minimum 24 hours’ notice. Cash Only. Duty free 1000litres Min but boats can share. Duty free generally delivered after 10am to the wharf and AFTER customs have given clearance papers. MUST be last Tongan port.

 

Ha’apai no duty free fuel

 

Niuatoputapu no duty free fuel

 

Homegas/Tongagas – Butane:

Gas bunker is closed for refilling bottles if a Gas bunker vessel is in the harbour.

 

Vava’u

Phone: 70319 VHF: NONE

Email: NONE

GPS coordinates:  18°40'37.44"S 173°59'8.27"W

Location: Toula fuel Bunker

 

Vava’u Cafe Tropicana charges $5 a kg and a $5 surcharge – generally next day if not weekly.

 

Nuku’alofa

Phone:   21390          VHF Ch: None

GPS coordinates:  21° 8'33.09"S   175°10'33.57"W

Location Ma’ufanga Bunker

 

Website: www.homegas.to

DOES not have all adaptors – NO CAMPINGAZ fittings!!
Vava’u Taxi from town is $5 each way. Or bring in to Café Tropicana  Hours 9am to 4.30pm  M to Sa

 

TONGA VAVA'U ANCHORAGES


Biat Yard Vavau

VAVA'U BOATYARD 🇹🇴 TONGA

Tonga’s Borders are open to the South Pacific Posse again!

18° 38.625'  S  173° 59.7483' W

The island groups of Tonga are are some of the most beautiful in the world. But the lack of secure hurricane/cyclone storage has always meant there was that deadline, when cruisers have to leave this paradise far too soon and seek shelter in Fiji or New Zealand. The BoatYard is a brand new yacht haulage and hard stand facility in Vava’u, the first in Tonga, and has turned Tonga into a safe year-round cruising destination!

We can offer your members a 10% discount on cyclone season storage and long time hardstand storage.

Cheers,

JOE

CONTACT The Boatyard Vava'u

+6768816854
+6768816846
info@boatyardvavau.com

27th of September 2022
All visiting yachts will need to submit an Advance Notice of Arrivals form to info@customs.gov.to at least 24 hours prior to arrival.

The island groups of Tonga are are some of the most beautiful in the world. But the lack of secure hurricane/cyclone storage has always meant there was that deadline, when cruisers have to leave this paradise far too soon and seek shelter in Fiji or New Zealand. The BoatYard is a brand new yacht haulage and hard stand facility in Vava’u, the first in Tonga, and has turned Tonga into a safe year-round cruising destination!

GOOD NAUTICAL SAFE APPROACH VAVA'U BOAT YARD


GALLERY

LOCATION

VIDEO

OFFICIAL WEBSITE VAVA'U BOATYARD

http://www.boatyardvavau.com/