The Louisiade Archipelago is a string of ten volcanic islands and coral reefs located south east of Papua New Guinea.  Part of the Province of Milne Bay, the archipelago has a land area of approximately 1600 sq kilometres. Louis Antoine de Bougainville names them in 1768 for Louis XV, King of France.

Position of Gigila Island:
         11 degrees  10 minutes  South,   152 degrees  55 minutes  East

The majority of the population of 5.8 million people of Papua New Guinea live on the mainland with the outer islands being sparsely populated.  Whereas English is the common language in the islands, there are several native dialects. Life expectancy is 56 years and child mortality is high. Literacy in Papua New Guinea is 57.3%, probably much less in remote islands. 

Trading is the islanders' modus operandi for doing business for everything from canoes and pigs to crayfish, fish, and a limited selection of fruit and vegetables.  When trading with  dimdims there seems to be no set rules.   Sometimes a cup of tea - always with two sugars - and a chat on board is all that is requested in return.  Useful currency includes sugar, rice, cigarettes, nails and tools, t-shirts, fishing and diving gear, soaps and material.  Children enjoy lollies, balloons and school supplies

Malaria is prevalent.  The hospital at Misima has a very limited supply of drugs and it is recommended to take your own, plus enough bandaids and Betadine to treat minor coral cuts before they become septic, both for yourself and for the islanders. Also take plenty of Panadol for the same reasons. You will be required to have current Hepatitis A and B vaccinations. It is suggested that you consult with your a GP for your individual requirements.

Visas  and current passports are essential.   See your local PNG consulate, although it can be a good idea to check any information given.

Customs clearance was kindly organised by 'Bella Via' in Misima in 2007. Rather than yachties having to beat against the wind coming back from  mainland PNG, a customs officer was flown out to Misima for a week when 13 yachts gathered in Bwagaoia Harbour in two 'batches'. This was approximately $Kina2000 (~A$1000) and was shared between the yachts.

© 2008 
Website by
Alegria DesigNZ