Funafuti - General Info
Where is Funafuti?
Funafuti is the capital of Tuvalu and the largest lagoon. It consists of a narrow sweep of land between 20 and 400 metres wide, encircling a large lagoon (Te Namo) which is 18 km (11 miles) long and 14 km (9 miles) wide. Tuvalu lies west of the International dateline and 1000km north of Fiji in the central Pacific . Funafuti is one of six atolls and three islands that make up Tuvalu which together total only 25 square km in land area, curving in a northwest to southeast direction over 676 km on the outer western edge of Polynesia.
Entrance Notes and Cautions for Funafuti:
The South East pass is reported to be straightforward, although treat with caution in a strong SE wind. Follow charted lines for ship channel right into Fongafale, these seem to avoid all shallow patches.
The Northern pass (Te Avo I De Lape passage) is much shallower and most likely be difficult in a northerly swell or strong northerly winds. Some sources recommend against using the North pass.
The Western pass (Te Avo Fuagea passage) is reported to be easy provided there is good light. The pass is quite narrow but deep and easy to navigate, both entry and exit.
Position – Anchorage off the Town:
08° 30.88’S, 179°11.07’E
Read and Post Related Comments
If you have information for this section, or feedback on businesses used, please let us know at editor@noonsite.com. We also welcome new information about businesses you have used (see Related Businesses).
Next Section: Profile: Clearance
Port Navigation
Courtesy Flag Discounts
YachtFlags.com provides high quality courtesy flags that are manufactured in durable Knitted Polyester fabric. Knitted so that the fabric itself does not deteriorate in the constant movement that marine flags are usually exposed to, and polyester so that the flag does not weaken in the strong UV-light usually found in the main sailing areas of the world.
YachtFlags.com offers a discount to Noonsite members.
Use the coupon code NOONSITE_5A2B when checking out to get 10% off today.
Buy Now On YachtFlags.comMain Ports - Tuvalu
Courtesy Flag Discounts
YachtFlags.com provides high quality courtesy flags that are manufactured in durable Knitted Polyester fabric. Knitted so that the fabric itself does not deteriorate in the constant movement that marine flags are usually exposed to, and polyester so that the flag does not weaken in the strong UV-light usually found in the main sailing areas of the world.
YachtFlags.com offers a discount to Noonsite members.
Use the coupon code NOONSITE_5A2B when checking out to get 10% off today.
Buy Now On YachtFlags.com
As of December 2017 no credit cards are accepted for fuel purchases, only $AUS. There is NO ATM anywhere on the island, so cash can only be converted at the Bank before 2pm.
There is a telecom office adjacent to the airport with data plans available without a sim purchase. The speed is reasonable at times. It is possible to receive this wifi in the anchorages off the village.
The Filomena and 3Ts are the most popular restaurants, 3Ts is the local favourite oriental restaurant. Filomena has a more varied menu with a bar.
As of June 2017:
– There is no dinghy dock off the government building, a beach landing is required. Wash off the sand at the two large green cisterns on either side of the entrance to the government building.
– Tuvalu has no fee for entry or exit. According to Tuvalu Customs an average of 12 yachts a year visit Tuvalu.
– If you want to purchase fuel in Funafuti, you must get a permission letter from the Energy Department (2nd floor of the government building). You can do this while clearing in. Request an amount that you want to purchase but be sure to tell them a “not to exceed amount”. The permission is cheerfully given.
Take the permission letter to Pacific Fuel, just north of the main wharf and schedule a delivery.
– Pacific Fuel will deliver diesel to the main wharf for the direct fuelling of your yacht. Or can deliver your filled Jerry Jugs to the same dock. No fee for this service. You may use the dock on a space available basis to fuel. Pacific Fuel will help with timing. No water or power available.
– You pay only for the fuel you take (in $AUS). They do accept credit cards with a fee.