Pohnpei

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Destination: Pohnpei

Introduction

Pohnpei (formerly Ponape) is the capital island of the Federated States of Micronesia and the most dramatic high island in the central Pacific. It rises to 791 m — the highest point in Micronesia — and is so comprehensively drenched by rainfall (Pohnpei averages over 7,600 mm per year, making it one of the wettest places on Earth) that the interior is a cathedral of dripping tropical forest, thundering waterfalls, and mist-shrouded ridges. Surrounding the island is a wide barrier reef lagoon of extraordinary beauty, with passages through the reef that bring sailors into calm, island-dotted waters. Pohnpei is also home to Nan Madol, the 'Venice of the Pacific' — a mysterious and monumental ancient city built on 92 artificial coral and basalt islands, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beguiling archaeological sites in the Pacific. The surf at Palikir Pass is world-class.

GPS Coordinates

6° 53' 14.640"N 158° 12' 54.000"E

6 53 14.640N 158 12 54.000E

Protected Anchorages

The main anchorage is in Kolonia Town harbour on the north coast of Pohnpei, inside the barrier reef. Enter through Jokaj Pass (northeast) or Dawahk Pass (north) — both well-marked; call Pohnpei Port Authority on VHF 16 for current guidance. Anchor in 5–12 m over mud and sand off the commercial wharf in Kolonia — reasonable holding. The anchorage is open to occasional northerly swells but generally calm in trade wind conditions. A more protected anchorage lies further into the lagoon off the south coast near Nan Madol — anchor in 3–6 m over sand in settled conditions; this puts you close to the ruins at slack water. Diesel fuel is available at the Kolonia wharf from the Mobil distributor — arrange by phone through the port. Water is available at the town dock. Provisioning in Kolonia is reasonable: there are several supermarkets, a fresh market near the dock, and a reasonable chandlery for basic parts. Holding tanks are required in Pohnpei's lagoon.

Customs Protocols for Visiting Yachts

Pohnpei is the FSM national capital and the primary port of entry for the Federated States of Micronesia. The FSM Customs and Immigration building is at the Kolonia commercial port. Flying the Q flag, contact Pohnpei Port Authority on VHF 16 on approach. FSM allows visa-free entry for most nationalities for 30 days (extendable to 90 days at the Immigration office in Kolonia). A single FSM entry permit covers movement between Pohnpei, Chuuk, Yap, and Kosrae. A cruising permit is available from the Department of Resources and Development and recommended for visiting outer atolls. Biosecurity inspections apply on arrival — all fruit, vegetables, and meat must be declared. The clearance procedure is friendly and efficient.

Yacht Clubs and Marinas in the Vicinity

  • Pohnpei Yacht Club — a small, informal club based near the Kolonia waterfront; the local sailing community is modest but welcoming to visiting yachts. The Village Hotel near the port is a popular base for sailors ashore. PCR (Pohnpei Community Resource) Boat Yard can handle basic haul-out and repair needs. Palm Terrace Hotel has a dinghy dock. For dive-related services, the Nett Point area has dive shops with equipment and local guides.

Renowned Attractions

  • Nan Madol — the 'Venice of the Pacific'; a UNESCO World Heritage Site of 92 artificial islands built from massive basalt columns, housing ceremonial temples, burial tombs, and the palace of the Saudeleur dynasty (12th–17th century); accessible by dinghy at high tide; one of the great mysteries of Pacific archaeology
  • Palikir Pass (P-Pass) — world-class surf break on the barrier reef; long, powerful right-hander that attracts dedicated surfers from around the world; best May–September with northwest swell; watch from the boat for a spectacular natural spectacle
  • Kepirohi Waterfall — 20-metre cascade deep in the jungle interior; dinghy up the Nanpil River then hike through plantation and forest; a magnificent freshwater rinse after months at sea
  • Sakau ceremony — Pohnpei's kava culture is central to social life; sakau (kava) is prepared by pounding the root on flat basalt stones and the grey liquid shared communally; visitors are welcomed into the ritual at nahmwarki (chief's compound) gatherings
  • Sokehs Rock — dramatic volcanic plug rising from the northwest corner of the island; WW1 German colonial history and WWII Japanese fortifications on the ridge; hike or view from the water
  • Spanish Wall ruins — remnants of the Spanish colonial fort in Kolonia, one of several European colonial relics on the island alongside German and Japanese-era buildings
  • Outer atolls — Ant Atoll (15 nm southwest) and Pakin Atoll (25 nm northwest) are uninhabited coral atolls with superb anchorages in 3–6 m over sand; excellent snorkelling and fishing; highly recommended side trips

Currency and Exchange Rate

Currency: US Dollar

Exchange Rate to USD

Nearby Yachting Destinations

Summary

Pohnpei is the green heart of Micronesia — a mist-shrouded volcanic island of extraordinary beauty, home to the mysterious UNESCO-listed stone city of Nan Madol, world-class surf at Palikir Pass, and a warm kava culture. One of the most rewarding and least-visited high islands in the entire Pacific.