The Solomon Islands Cruising Guide and sailing around these islands is unlike sailing anywhere else in the South Pacific. The country stretches across a vast chain of volcanic islands, coral atolls, and deep‑water passages, offering a mix of remote exploration, WWII history, and some of the richest marine biodiversity in the region. Because the Solomons are less developed than Fiji or Vanuatu, most yachts follow a loose, practical route that balances provisioning access, safe anchorages, and cultural experiences. Below is a clear overview of the most common cruising flow through the islands, from the Western Province to the remote eastern groups
Sailing through the Solomon Islands feels like slipping into a living postcard—emerald peaks, glass‑clear lagoons, and villages where tradition still guides daily life. Cruisers weave between remote anchorages, vibrant reefs, and storied WWII sites, finding a rhythm shaped by tides and warm island hospitality. With steady trade winds and countless sheltered bays, the Solomons offer both adventure and calm, inviting sailors to explore one of the Pacific’s most culturally rich and naturally unspoiled cruising grounds. I hope this Solomon Islands Cruising Guide helps you when passage planning.
For the majority of yachts arriving from Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, or Australia, the Western Province is the natural starting point. It’s the most cruiser‑friendly region, with better provisioning, fuel access, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The key stops are:
Why start here you ask?
Most cruisers spend 2–4 weeks exploring this region before moving east.
As you move east from Gizo and Noro, you enter the historic waters of Iron Bottom Sound, a deep, narrow passage filled with WWII wrecks, memorials, and dramatic volcanic scenery. Key stops are:
Why Sail This Route?
This stretch is ideal for sailors who enjoy slow exploration and meaningful village interactions.
Most cruisers eventually make their way to Honiara, the capital, either for provisioning, repairs, or onward travel. It’s busy, gritty, and not as cruiser‑friendly as the Western Province, but it’s the best place for major supplies. Key stops are:
Why Stop Here?
Most cruisers keep their stay in Honiara short and anchor with caution due to swell, traffic, and security considerations.
Beyond Honiara, the Solomons become increasingly remote. These islands offer some of the most authentic cultural experiences in the Pacific, but they require self‑sufficiency, patience, and respect for local customs. The key regions are:Why Sail Here?
The far eastern groups, Temotu Province, including Santa Cruz, Reef Islands, and Tikopia, are some of the most remote islands in the Pacific. Very few yachts venture this far, but those who do describe it as unforgettable. What to Expect:
These islands require careful planning, deep respect for local customs, and a high level of self‑reliance.
Most yachts follow a west‑to‑east progression:
Noro → Gizo → Vona Vona → Munda → Kolombangara → Honiara → Florida Islands → Malaita → Makira → Santa Ana → Santa Cruz (optional)
Then either continue to Vanuatu, sail north toward PNG, or loop back west for cyclone‑season storage in Gizo or Noro.
Cruising the Solomon Islands is a journey into one of the Pacific’s last great frontiers. The distances are manageable, the anchorages are spectacular, and the cultural experiences are profound. With thoughtful preparation, a flexible mindset, and a willingness to engage respectfully with local communities, sailors will find sailing to the Solomons to be one of the most rewarding cruising destinations in the world.