We have come through Saipan twice in 2 years now, and find it to be very accommodating towards visiting boats.

Avoid entering port for clearance on weekends as the overtime charges are fairly hefty.

Best berthing is at Smiling Cove Marina where a new Transient berth for visiting yachts has been constructed. Customs, Immigration and Quarantine can be done here. Every time a visiting boat uses the main wharf a fee is charged so avoid whenever possible.

The transient berth has water on tap which is not potable, however, Fresh Reverse Osmosis water is available but must be organised through the marina office and permission obtained from the Rangers at American Memorial Park for the Marina staff to change over the supply to the transient dock to RO water. This is quite easily done.

The transient dock also has free wireless internet and 110 volt 3 pin American shore power, and the marina office has adaptor plugs to suit some power connections. For a 40ft boat the first 3 days are free then the Charge is $8.00 US per day.

The entrance to the marina channel is fairly tight and the deep water is found by keeping the wall at the entrance and along the channel close to Port.

Diesel Fuel at Saipan can be obtained at a good price but not from the fuel station in the port, a much less expensive option with savings of up to $1.00 per gallon is to arrange for a tanker truck to deliver to either number 2 seaplane ramp (unsuitable for deep draught vessels) or the main wharf (Charlie dock which attracts a $30 fee). Of course, this may not be worth the hassle if only a small amount of fuel is required.

Shopping for provisions – Price Costco has a warehouse on Saipan and there is also a really good 24 hour market on middle road close to the Marina. Local markets for fruit and vegetables are on Saturday mornings and Tuesday afternoons.

Ian Mayne