Destination: Funafuti, Tuvalu
Introduction
Funafuti is the capital and main atoll of Tuvalu, a nation of nine coral atolls and the world's fourth-smallest country by area and population. Tuvalu sits barely 2 m above sea level and is one of the nations most threatened by rising seas — a poignant backdrop to any visit. The lagoon is enormous and beautiful, the people are exceptionally friendly, and the destination is one of the most remote and rarely visited in the Pacific.
GPS Coordinates
8° 31' 27.480"S 179° 11' 39.120"E
8 31 27.480S 179 11 39.120E
Protected Anchorages
The main anchorage for visiting yachts is in the Funafuti lagoon, inside the western passes, off the main islet (Fongafale) where the capital sits. Anchorage in 8–15 m over sand and coral provides good holding. The entrance passes — Te Ava Pua Pua on the northwest and the passage near the airstrip — require careful navigation. WWII history is visible throughout the lagoon with sunken vessels on the western shore. The lagoon is vast and calm.
Customs Protocols for Visiting Yachts
Funafuti is Tuvalu's Port of Entry. Customs and Immigration are on Fongafale. Clearance must be done before going ashore. A cruising permit covers the outer atolls. The process is generally straightforward — Tuvalu sees relatively few visiting yachts.
Yacht Clubs and Marinas in the Vicinity
- No yacht club or marina. The main wharf at Funafuti has very limited facilities. Fuel is available by jerrycan from the town. The Filamona Lodge and nearby guesthouses welcome sailors ashore.
Renowned Attractions
- Funafuti Conservation Area — vast protected lagoon area with turtle nesting beaches, excellent snorkelling, and pristine ecology
- WWII relics — sunken US seaplane, armoured vehicles, and equipment in the shallow lagoon
- Traditional fatele dancing — Tuvaluan communal dancing performances in the maneapa (community meeting house)
- Outer islet exploration by dinghy — the numerous uninhabited motus around the lagoon are pristine and turtle-frequented
- Stamp collecting — Tuvalu's philatelic programme is one of the best in the Pacific
Currency and Exchange Rate
Currency: Australian Dollar
Exchange Rate to USD
Nearby Yachting Destinations
Summary
Funafuti is a profoundly moving Pacific destination — an atoll nation of extraordinary natural beauty and warmly welcoming people, grappling with the reality of climate change-induced sea level rise, that rewards the rare visiting sailor with an experience unlike any other in the Pacific.