Destination: Palmerston Atoll, Cook Islands
Introduction
Palmerston Atoll is one of the most isolated and extraordinary communities in the Pacific — a tiny coral atoll 370 nm northwest of Rarotonga, where the entire population of around 60 people descends from a single English sailor, William Marsters, who settled here with three Polynesian wives in 1863. Every resident is a Marsters. Visiting sailors receive one of the most genuine and warm welcomes in the Pacific, and the community's tradition of hospitality to passing yachts is legendary.
GPS Coordinates
18° 4' 59.880"S 163° 10' 0.120"W
18 4 59.880S 163 10 0.120W
Protected Anchorages
The anchorage off Palmerston is on the western side of the reef in 15–20 m over sand, open to the northwest. The atoll has no navigable pass — all vessels anchor outside the reef. The anchorage can be rolly in any northerly swell. Dinghies are brought ashore through a boat passage in the reef managed by the islanders, who will come out to guide vessels in. Do not attempt to enter the reef unassisted.
Customs Protocols for Visiting Yachts
No customs facilities. Vessels should be cleared from a recognised port before visiting. The island chief (head of the Marsters family) is the de facto authority and registers visiting yachts.
Yacht Clubs and Marinas in the Vicinity
- No facilities. The community shares everything with visitors — meals are often provided in individual family homes. Fresh fish and coconuts are freely given. It is customary to reciprocate with provisions, particularly flour, rice, and tools.
Renowned Attractions
- The Marsters family welcome — being invited into family homes for meals and storytelling, completely unique in the Pacific
- Church service — the whole island attends Sunday service together; visitors are warmly included
- Snorkelling and fishing on the pristine outer reef — extraordinary fish life untouched by commercial fishing
- William Marsters' grave and the original settlement — fascinating history told by descendants
- Complete isolation and community life observation — one of the world's last truly self-sufficient small communities
Currency and Exchange Rate
Currency: New Zealand Dollar
Exchange Rate to USD
Nearby Yachting Destinations
Summary
Palmerston is unlike any other destination in the Pacific — a tiny community of one large family who welcome every passing sailor into their homes with a generosity and warmth that makes it one of the most memorable stops on any Pacific voyage.