Destination: Honiara, Solomon Islands
Introduction
Honiara is the capital of the Solomon Islands, situated on the north coast of Guadalcanal on Iron Bottom Sound — named for the hundreds of ships sunk there in the WWII naval battles of 1942-43. The city is the main Port of Entry for the Solomons and the primary service hub. While not the most glamorous Pacific capital, it offers essential provisioning and clearance facilities for cruisers exploring the extraordinary island chain to the northwest.
GPS Coordinates
9° 25' 54.840"S 160° 3' 23.760"E
9 25 54.840S 160 3 23.760E
Protected Anchorages
The main anchorage for yachts is off Point Cruz, in front of the yacht club, in 10–20 m over sand and mud. Iron Bottom Sound has consistent depth with good holding. Point Cruz Yacht Club has a small marina with alongside and moorings. The sound can have a short, steep chop in trade wind conditions. Commercial traffic is significant — maintain a good watch.
Customs Protocols for Visiting Yachts
Honiara is the main Port of Entry for the Solomon Islands. Customs and Immigration are at the main wharf. A cruising permit is required for travel to outer islands. Pre-arrival notice to the harbour master is helpful. All food stores are subject to biosecurity inspection. Visiting vessels should carry a full dossier of paperwork — passports, vessel registration, and insurance.
Yacht Clubs and Marinas in the Vicinity
- Point Cruz Yacht Club is the cruising hub, with moorings, fuel, water, bar, and restaurant. The club is very knowledgeable about sailing conditions throughout the Solomons. It organises the annual Guadalcanal Yacht Race.
Renowned Attractions
- WWII memorials and museum — Iron Bottom Sound's extraordinary naval battle history including the USS Hornet and HMAS Canberra wrecks
- Honiara Central Market — colourful, chaotic, and fascinating produce market in the city centre
- Bloody Ridge (Edson's Ridge) — preserved WWII battlefield site on the edge of the city
- Henderson Field (now Honiara Airport) — the contested WWII airfield that determined the Pacific War's course
- Bonegi Beach WWII wrecks — snorkellable Japanese transport ships just outside Honiara
Currency and Exchange Rate
Currency: Solomon Islands Dollar
Exchange Rate to USD
Nearby Yachting Destinations
Summary
Honiara is the gateway to the Solomon Islands — an historically rich port on Iron Bottom Sound that provides the necessary clearance and services for exploring one of the Pacific's most rewarding and least-visited cruising grounds.