Uturoa (PFUTU)

Uturoa is the main port of Raiatea Island, the busiest port in Iles Sous-le-Vent.

Uturoa is situated on the N side of Raiatea, in the Society Islands NW of Tahiti.

Max draught 8.3m.

Four anchorage berths available for vessels waiting to berth alongside. The swinging room is limited, the two anchorage berths at the N end, in depths of about 27.0m, are recommended as the holding ground is good, whilst the 2 anchorage berths at the S end, in similar depths are affected by a strong current, usually NW-going.

Uturoa can be approached from Passe Teavapiti, Passe Paipai or Passe Rautoanui through the inner passage N of Raiatea. The port is less easily approached through Passe Tuahotu.

BA 1103, 1107, Admiralty Pilot NP62, NP286(4).

When berthing alongside, entry by one pass and departure by the other avoids the need to turn in restricted space after leaving the berth.

Pilot available from Papeete.

Uturoa extends from Pointe Tonoi to the temple, 0.8nm NE.

It has been reported that the main berth is frequently used by local schooners and that at least 48 hours notice is required to ensure that a berth can be secured. There are two restricted areas, marked by buoys, lying close NE and NW of Pointe Ofaiputuputu.

VHF: Coastal Radio Communication Station Ch 16 or 26.

Uturoa is a port of entry for pleasure craft to Polynesie Francaise.