Destination: Kavieng, Papua New Guinea
Introduction
Kavieng is the provincial capital of New Ireland Province, situated at the northwestern tip of New Ireland Island in a magnificent position overlooking Steffen Strait between New Ireland and New Hanover. It is a gateway to some of PNG's most pristine and diverse diving, incredible pelagic fishing, and the extraordinary wildlife of New Ireland including the megapode birds and flying foxes. The area is increasingly recognised as one of the Pacific's finest diving destinations.
GPS Coordinates
2° 34' 59.880"S 150° 48' 0.000"E
2 34 59.880S 150 48 0.000E
Protected Anchorages
Kavieng Harbour is well-sheltered with anchorage in 5–15 m off the town. The approach through Steffen Strait requires attention to the current — it runs strongly and can set vessels onto the reefs. Nusa Island off the harbour entrance has a small resort and good anchorage in 5–10 m. The channel between New Ireland and the offshore islands is studded with beautiful anchorages including Nago Island and the northern New Ireland passes.
Customs Protocols for Visiting Yachts
Kavieng is a Port of Entry for PNG. The customs office is in town near the main wharf. Vessels arriving from Micronesia, the Philippines, or the Marshall Islands may clear in here. A cruising permit is required.
Yacht Clubs and Marinas in the Vicinity
- Kavieng Hotel is the main facility and welcomes visiting sailors, with fuel and basic provisions available in town.
- Nusa Island Retreat has moorings and caters to yachts. Kavieng is the staging point for live-aboard diving operations throughout New Ireland and the Bismarck Archipelago.
Renowned Attractions
- Steffen Strait passes diving — adrenaline drift diving through narrow channels with pelagic species, sharks, and schools of fish
- New Ireland megapode bird mounds — extraordinary birds that use volcanic heat to incubate their eggs in mounds
- Illi Illi Falls — jungle waterfall accessible by river boat from Kavieng
- Traditional New Ireland malanggan carvings — distinctive and highly elaborate ceremonial sculptures
- Big Eye tuna fishing — some of the Pacific's most productive blue water fishing in the straits
Currency and Exchange Rate
Currency: Papua New Guinea Kina
Exchange Rate to USD
Nearby Yachting Destinations
Summary
Kavieng is the adventurous sailor's base for exploring New Ireland's extraordinary diving passages, rich wildlife, and traditional Melanesian culture — a destination that consistently surprises and delights those willing to make the passage to this remote corner of PNG.