It's been well over two years since our last haul-out in St Thomas and I wish to learn where I can haul our 17 ton yacht in the South-western islands of the Pacific.

Specifically, I'm seeking info on Tonga, Fiji, Vanuatu, the Solomons, New Caledonia or any other place in the region to do a routine bottom paint job.

Thanks.

To Life!

Kirk

Greetings Kirk,

Over the years in the South Pacific I hauled out twice at Don Colemen's boat yard in Nieafu, Vavau group in Tonga. They use a railway system. Prices are good for a 33 footer $290 USD for out in and one week. They are always busy so try to book ahead if possible. Don has retired and John Boy Beuchamp runs the yard now. Bring your own paints etc.

In Fiji, Vunda Point Marina is a good place with a travellift and reasonable prices. $350 out in and 7 days on the hard. They are busy in the main cruising season from May to October. Bottom paint is easy to get in Lautoka or ordered from Suva. Good marine services in Lautoka.

Port Villa, Vanuatu has a small boat yard at the end of the harbor. I never hauled out there but took a look at the facility and I know many others who did and had no dramas there. Bring most of your own paints and materials.

I hauled in Gulf Harbor Marina in Whangaparoa near Auckland, New Zealand via a well run travelllift 3 times and was impressed with the facilities. The longer you stayout the daily rate is reduced. Probably the best place I have hauled to date. Lots of marine stores and services.

Coff's Harbor, New South Wales, Australia has a funky railway system and lots of marine stores and parts places. Hauled there twice.It was pricey due to all the environmental permits added on to your bill. Do not even think about having any old TBT in your bottom paint as the local DEQ do check and take water samples in the paint runoff holding tank areas.

All places noted allow you to stay on board while working on the boat. Good showers, abulitions (a word I learned in Gulf Harbor) etc.

Hope this helps.

Regards, Brian.

Hi Kirk,

Sent email - one caveat : get quotation in writing prior to haul/liftout for all costs.

Richard

Also, there are two haulout yards in Nouema, New`Caledonia, very upscale and professional, but expensive. Many marine stores in Noumea, www.shipshop.com can help all yachties in the harbor with just about anything .