Labasa (FJLBS)

It is the principal town of Vanua Levu.

Labasa, also known as Lambasa, is situated on the N coast of Vanua Levu.

Labasa can be reached at MHWS by vessels with max draught of 2.3m.

Approaches: Labasa can be reached either through Labasa River (16°23.0'S 179° 20.0'E) which discharges through a delta into the channel between Mali Island and the coast, or through Qawa River entered close E. The two rivers are connected by a creek, much used by local craft, about 3nm from the entrance. The E arm of the river is the most used by vessels proceeding up to Labasa. The bars across the entrances of both rivers have depths of 0.6m over them. Labasa River is navigable as far as Labasa bridge, 4nm from the entrance, with a vertical clearance of 1.7m.

Lambasa is an alternative name for Labasa.

BA 440, Admiralty Pilot NP61, NP286(4).

Coast guard:

1025.

Pilotage is not compulsory but recommended. Commercial pilot normally boards from Fiji Sugar Corporation tug outside Mali Pass or from the pilot vessel from Lautoka or Suva. Pilots arranged through agent, VHF Ch 16.

See GENERAL NOTES. Master should check details with local agent.

Lambasa is an alternative name for Labasa.