14CHART IIIANCHORAGES
In describing the anchorages of the Vava'u group we will cover
those in the "Neiafu fjord" region first. Thereafter we will move from
the west. the area of deep water. to the east where more shallows and
coral heads appear. In fact. longitude 1740 passes through Neiafu and
is an easy division between the deep water to the west and the more
tricky shallows to the east. The eastern area is for more experienced
sailors and for exploration in good weather with plenty of sun to
visibly show the hazards.
NEIAFU AREA: The body of water on which the town of Neiafu is situated
is a five mile long bay and is well protected. It is much like a
Norwegian Fjord. There are two shallow areas. One extends out from
the village of 'Utulei (marked F.S. on the chart) which is to the west
of Neiafu on the opposite shore. As you head out of Neiafu toward
Mount Talau. there is one turning buoy off the Utu1ei shallows. You
may pass on either side but stay close to the buoy. Once at this
position you will see the southwest port and starboard channel buoys.
Pass between them and out of the harbour.
between our dock and the main town wharf.
The second shallow is
Avoid the area inshore
between the two. In the Neiafu area there is one discernible plateau
which is useful in taking bearings. This plateau. Ta1au. elevation 430
feet. is just a mile west of Neiafu and is easily seen from our base.
Further south. about four miles S.W. of Neiafu, is a second plateau
called Mo'unga1afa and its elevation is 610 feet. This plateau can be
seen from most of the southern cruising area.