For boats
APPROACH
First you
have to enter to Bruat Channel. There is a strong current there, usually 2-3
knots but 5 sometimes. Keep closer to the South cost. Guichen Reef with least
depth of 1.8 meters
blocks the northern half of the pass. If the current is against you do not turn
north to quickly after passing Guichen Reef, you can be swept to shallows.
Approaching
from West is easy, just watch on shallows around Purumamasa Island
The current
head in from the east 2 to 3 hours past low tide, head in from the west 2 to 3
hours before low tide.
Useful
approach waypoint:
15 36.741S
and 167 10.338E
Keep clear
coral heads on your right last few hundreds meter before anchorage.
ANCHORING
We dropped
the anchor on position
15 36.707S
and 167 10.509E (13m sand, good holding)
This
anchoring is very well protected from all winds and swell accepted SW and W.
MOORING
BUOYS
There are
two free mooring buoys installed closer to the Resort that they would prefer
that you used rather than damage the reef with your anchor. But in my opinion
they are not strong, for small boats only, like 10T or less. Do not mistake
mooring buoys with other buoys showing shallow areas.
DINGHY
LANDING
There is a
small wharf belongs to resort. You can tie your dinghy there, but you can also
go directly to the beach.
FACILITIES
Do not
expect much, but tell your needs to resort reception stuff.
For crews
Snorkeling
There is
very good snorkeling spot, just on your right (SW corner of the reef) on
position:
15 36.777
and 167 10.496E
An amazing
feature of that place is the number of sea turtles that hang out there. You
almost always see a head pop out of the water. Big ones, too.
The resort
The old
style looking resort is one of the most beauties I ever seen. Walk around and admire
houses, restaurant or coffee. Eat a lunch or buy a drink in the evening.
Harrison Ford was there.
The resort
provides some activities, check their board in reception. They have also small
diving center. More about activities you can find in section Photos.
The village
There is a
small village - Port Lautour on Aore
Island. Easy to see on
your left. You can go there by dinghy; a small channel is marked by sticks. Leave
all to your port side.
This is a
quiet place, perfect for 2-3 days rest.
Fees
No fees for
anchoring
Faciities prices - see section photos