An ideal anchorage
The entrance to Fakarava lagoon can be done through two passes. The one to the north is called the Garuae pass, is 1.6 km wide and is the largest pass in Polynesia. The village of Rotoava is located 5 miles away, on a small strip of land about 300m wide with the lagoon on one side and the ocean on the other.
The anchorage area is well sheltered. There are a few buoys, some of which are private and reserved for charter catamarans, and between the numerous coral spuds, a few sandy places to anchor. To disembark, the dock is a few minutes away, directly in the village.
On land, only one road crosses the village: the Chirac road, which with its 15 km length is the longest motorable track in the Tuamotus.
All services in the immediate vicinity
After withdrawing money from the OPT, the yachtsman can refuel with water and diesel at the gas station on the quay. You can leave your garbage cans and several drinking water points allow you to fill up cans.
Three general grocery stores normally carry at least the basic necessities. Fruits and vegetables are sold by locals on the roadside south of the village, and there are several snack bars and restaurants. Remember to make reservations or order! The supply still depends on the sometimes random passage of schoonersâ?¦
You can benefit from an Internet connection, get phone cards, leave your laundry at a company that provides a laundry service. To go further, it is possible to rent a bicycle or a car. Finally, we do not wish you to need it, but there is also a dispensary.
The right location to shine
Enjoy the beach on the ocean side or on the lagoon side, visit the church and the lighthouse of Rotoava, discover a pearl farm or a coconut oil factory¦ Many activities are possible from the anchorage area. And don't forget that Fakarava is known worldwide for diving: several centers offer trips from Rotoava, in the two passes and the lagoon.
No doubt, you will find in Rotoava many activities and services that will mark your trip to French Polynesia!
