Destination: Wallis Island (Uvea), Wallis and Futuna
Introduction
Wallis Island (officially Uvea) is the main island of the French overseas collectivity of Wallis and Futuna, lying roughly midway between Samoa and Fiji. It is a rarely visited Pacific gem — a volcanic island enclosed within a barrier reef with a large, calm lagoon, French Polynesian-style infrastructure, and a deeply traditional Polynesian kingdom that maintains three distinct chieftainships. Few cruising yachts stop here, making it a genuinely off-the-beaten-track experience.
GPS Coordinates
13° 18' 0.000"S 176° 10' 59.880"W
13 18 0.000S 176 10 59.880W
Protected Anchorages
Mata-Utu, the main town and administrative centre on the eastern coast, is the main anchorage inside the lagoon barrier reef. Anchorage in the lagoon is in 5–15 m over sand and coral with good holding. Entry into the lagoon is via the marked passes — Honikulu Pass on the western side is the main entry point, deep and well-marked. The lagoon is calm, clear, and provides excellent shelter from the trade winds.
Customs Protocols for Visiting Yachts
Wallis is a Port of Entry for the French collectivity of Wallis and Futuna. French customs regulations apply. Customs is at Mata-Utu. Vessels from non-EU countries should have appropriate ship's papers. The French Pacific cruising process applies.
Yacht Clubs and Marinas in the Vicinity
- No yacht club or marina. Basic fuel and provisions at Mata-Utu. The island has a hospital, pharmacy, and reasonable stores. The French administrative presence provides some infrastructure.
Renowned Attractions
- Lake Lalolalo — a perfect circular lake in a volcanic caldera in the island interior, surrounded by dense jungle
- Ancient fortifications (fale) and royal tombs around the island
- Mata-Utu Cathedral — the dominant landmark of the town, built in a distinctive Pacific Catholic style
- Pristine lagoon snorkelling — largely undived reefs in the Wallis lagoon
- Traditional Uvean royal protocol — the kingdom maintains traditional chieftainship customs
Currency and Exchange Rate
Currency: CFP Franc
Exchange Rate to USD
Nearby Yachting Destinations
Summary
Wallis Island is one of the Pacific's best-kept secrets — a well-sheltered lagoon, French infrastructure, and a genuine traditional Polynesian kingdom that receives almost no tourism, offering sailors a unique and authentic Pacific stopover on the Fiji-Samoa passage.