VAVA’U, Tonga

Vava’u (pronounced Vavow) – what a GEM in the Crown of Tonga!!

I had not really heard of this place before we booked this cruise. I have to admit that I did not know much about Tonga at all – but that is what travel is for!. And even when I did some pre-cruise research, I did not read much about it that I could identify with. It is apparently the largest natural harbour in the South Pacific – and, during the winter months, home to many hundreds of visiting “yachties”. As an ex-sailor, that alone created some interest in the place for me. I also read that it is very popular for diving and fishing.

At most Ports we have arrived at on a cruise-ship, we have raced all over the place looking at “things” – we have almost never just relaxed and done “nothing”. As part of my research, I found a photo of the local Yacht Club – which looked very attractive, located right on the waterfront of the main town of Neiafu. I decided that this would be one place where we would simply enjoy a good few beers and lunch – and leave sightseeing to others. We looked all over the waterfront for this cruise club – it is not that big an area, and we could not find the club (although there was an ominous looking jetty, covered with the remains of a fire) . Yes – it was no longer with us. So, with some new friends made on the ship, we spent the better part of the day in Mango’s Bar and Restaurant – a new establishment, also right on the waterfront. An excellent choice – perfectly located with a view of the “Port of Refuge”, good inexpensive food and drinks. If we ever return, we will head back to it!!.

There is a blossoming tourism industry here – and I suspect that a week or so would be rewarding. I asked the Tourist Centre how we would get here from Australia – and unfortunately there are no direct flights – all flights coming into Tonga seem to come to Nuku’alofa. From there you can get to Vava’u by small airplane or weekly Ferry.

Early morning arrival into the Port of Refuge	Pacific Pearl – quietly at anchor	Just one of the interesting visiting boats
BUT – it is the Tropics – and it rains at some time every day!	a beautiful outlook, to enjoy some food and drinks	Breadfruit chippies! – nice!!