The Cook Islands, located between French Polynesia and Samoa in the South Pacific is a popular stopover for yachts heading west across the Pacific. However, intending visitors should ensure they arrive at either of the only two designated Ports of Entry according to Cook Island authorities.

Published 1 month ago

Restricted Ports of Entry

Cook Islands’ officials have confirmed that Rarotonga (Avatiu Wharf) and Aitutaki (Arutanga Port) are the only open ports of entry for the Cook Islands. All other ports are closed.  If you wish to enter at another port, Cook Island officials ask that you apply for permission well in advance of your intended arrival date.

Penrhyn (Omoka Wharf) is closed as there are no customs officials there at the moment.

Vessels that want to visit Palmerston Island, Suwarrow Island, or other islands in the Cook Islands that are not designated ports of call must request permission before arrival.  This can take up to five working days to process, so officials request that the necessary information and documents are submitted well in advance of your intended arrival date.

Cook Islands Customs Officials also recommend that the captain of any vessel heading for the Islands should submit all documentation and await Customs approval before departing from their last port, as space in the country’s ports is very limited.

Vessels arriving at either Rarotonga and Aitutaki at night must anchor off and radio for permission to enter the next day.

Dredging works are continuing at Aitutaki and should be completed mid-2025. Once done there will be new charges in place for visiting yachts – but we won’t know what they are until dredging works are finished.