Funafuti, Tuvalu

Funafuti is the capital of the small island nation of Tuvalu. It is a narrow sweep of land between 20 and 400 meters wide, encircling a large lagoon 18 km long and 14 km wide, with 275 km² by far the largest lagoon in Tuvalu. There are at least 33 islands in the atoll. The biggest is Fongafale, followed by Funafala. At least three islands are inhabited, which are Fongafale, the main island in the east, Funafala in the south, and Amatuku in the north.

Funafuti atoll was a main US military base during World War II, debris can be seen along the main island of Fongafale. A well-preserved underground bunker is found on the islet of Tepuka. On Funafuti, the site of the drilling by scientists to prove Darwin's theory on the formation of atolls can be found. Darwin's theory was proved to be correct and evidence of submerged volcanoes was found after drilling to a depth of more than 1000 feet.

Things to see and do

* Diving and snorkeling
* Underground bunker on Tepuka
* Darwin’s drilling site
* Church of Tuvalu

Cruise Season – Jan - Dec
Currency – Tuvaluan dollar, Australian dollar (AUD)
Language – English, Tuvaluan
Land Area – 2.4 km²
Population – 5,500 approx
Electricity – 2 angled flat pins and 1 round pin centred below Australian style
Time – GMT plus twelve hours
International Country Telephone Code – + 688

Port Location – There is an anchorage area located at Funafuti.

Transport Links – There is an airport located in Funafuti, capital of the island nation of Tuvalu. Air Fiji serves Funafuti and supplies a link with Suva, Fiji, which functions as a regional hub.

Air Pacific operates a weekly service between Suva (originating from Nadi) and Funafuti on Tuesdays.

About 3-4 times a year, the government-owned ships Nivaga II and Manu Folau travel between Suva, Fiji and Funafuti, Tuvalu.