Destination: Marovo Lagoon, Solomon Islands
Introduction
Marovo Lagoon in the New Georgia group is the world's largest saltwater lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage-nominated area of breathtaking beauty, extraordinary biodiversity, and almost no tourist infrastructure. Enclosed by a double barrier reef system — unique in the Pacific — the lagoon is over 700 sq km of protected water with hundreds of small islands, channels, and pristine reefs. It is rated as one of the finest diving destinations in the world and visited by only a handful of yachts each year.
GPS Coordinates
8° 45' 0.000"S 158° 15' 0.000"E
8 45 0.000S 158 15 0.000E
Protected Anchorages
Entry into Marovo Lagoon from the south is via Mbili Passage or Nono Passage. The standard anchorage is off Batuna mission station or in the bays around Telina Island. Viru Harbour on the northwestern edge is a deep, sheltered harbour with easy passage entry. Anchorage throughout the lagoon is in 5–20 m over sand with excellent holding. The lagoon is calm regardless of external sea state.
Customs Protocols for Visiting Yachts
No customs in Marovo Lagoon. Must be cleared at Honiara before entering the Solomons. A valid cruising permit covers the Western Province.
Yacht Clubs and Marinas in the Vicinity
- No facilities. Lodges at Uepi Island Resort and Nusatupe Resort can assist visiting yachts with fuel and provisions by prior arrangement. Villages throughout the lagoon practice the traditional system of customary ownership — ask permission before entering village areas.
Renowned Attractions
- Marovo Lagoon diving — the double barrier reef system creates unique underwater ecosystems, rated among the world's best
- Traditional woodcarving — Marovo artisans are famous throughout the Pacific for their intricate carved ebony and rosewood works
- Skull shrines — megalithic coastal ossuary sites from the era of inter-tribal head-hunting raids
- Uepi Point shark dive — regular encounters with whitetip and grey reef sharks in the channel
- Village homestays — genuine immersion in traditional Solomon Islands community life
Currency and Exchange Rate
Currency: Solomon Islands Dollar
Exchange Rate to USD
Nearby Yachting Destinations
Summary
Marovo Lagoon is one of the Pacific's last great unspoiled cruising frontiers — a UNESCO-listed double barrier reef lagoon of extraordinary size and beauty, offering world-class diving, genuine cultural experiences, and the rare privilege of remoteness.