We arrived in Vava’u and traipsed the streets looking into dive shops and boat hiring and all manner of things, and we were hot and dusty and frustrated by the time we met Steve. But that all fell away as he told us of the ocean and the islands we would see – the adventure we would have. There was no doubt in my mind, meeting him, that this was the perfect choice. Four days was all we had – but the things we saw and experienced in those four days! We anchored by pure white sand beaches and snorkeled around islands, amazed at the colours and beauty of the fish. We hiked across Kenutu and we were the very first in all the world to see the sun that morning. We caught a yellow fin tuna and ate fresh sashimi right there on the deck. We learned to sail, and we swam in crystal clear water, and we lay back and watched the stars, full of awe at the majesty of the skies. The food was fresh and tasty and beautiful, and Steve told stories and shared his passion for the ocean. We sailed where we wished, swept by Tongan winds. The beauty of Vava’u was opened up to us, and every night we slept with the waves lapping against the hulls, gently rocked by the sweet back and forth of the ocean. It was everything I could have wished for and more. Every day the same and every day completely different, and so full of life and surprises. I could not have dreamt up something so perfect if I tried – it has to be lived, to be experienced. I recommend you try an ocean adventure for yourself. Be led by the strong competent hands of Steve through the islands of Vava’u. You cannot possibly walk away unmoved by such a magnificent experience.
Willow Davies, Australia
Intuitive Consultant
photos taken by my guests while on charter - malo ‘aupito!
Guest Photos
Testimonials & Guest Photos
Looking for a great sailing experience... we found a PARADISE and also a lovely friend! We went to Vava'u for a sailing trip to celebrate our honeymoon from 7th oct to 11th oct 2008. We chartered with Manu-O-Ku in the Vava’u groups and we had a fabulous experience! The islands are just what you want in a South Pacific island- crowned with palms, totally covered with beautiful foliage, and most are uninhabited. We swam, snorkeled, visited uninhabited islands, explored caves, enjoyed coconuts fresh off the tree. The azure waters were as warm as the welcome received by the captain Steve.
The sailing was fun – different anchorages for every night – such “exclusive” resorts! One day blended seamlessly into the next, more laughs, more beautiful beaches, more great sailing. We were totally involved in “sharing the experience”, helping Steve in sailing, anchoring, cooking (pasta of course!) and also enjoying the time with such an interesting new friend and his great pina coladas at sunset! We can’t find the words to explain what we felt..... Vava’u remains one of those “got to get back there one day” places.
Thanks Steve!!!..... and sorry about our english mistakes!
Stefano & Daniela
Italy
We had heard that the best way to explore the Vava'u group islands was to sail. However we were faced with a couple of dilemmas, 1, we couldn't sail and 2, we didn't have a boat! Luckily we came across Steve and his boat Manu-O-Ku shortly after we arrived in Vava'u.
We spent 2 nights aboard Manu-O-Ku and enjoyed every minute - sailing to different anchorages among the numerous islands of the Vava'u group, stopping off to do some amazing snorkeling in beautiful crystal clear waters, walking along lone strips of beach on deserted islands and eating coconut bits dipped in chocolate (Steve's homemade bounty).
Steve not only shared his boat and his cooking with us but also his wisdom of Tonga and told us which ropes to pull and when!
We both agreed that is was the best part of our stay in Tonga and that the rumours were right, sailing is the best way to see Vava'u!
Thanks Steve!
Emily & Mikael (Australia, Sweden)
I couldn't imagine a better way to explore the islands of Vava'u than with Steve aboard Manu-O-Ku. Uninhabited islands, fresh sashimi on the deck, snorkeling, great sailing; all accompanied by Steve's laid back Hawaiian nature, his great knowledge of the sea....and an awesome collection of Dylan. The 4 days I spent on Steve's boat where one of the greatest travel experiences I've had. If you're heading to Tonga, I highly recommend a trip on Manu-O-Ku.
Dr. Marcus Hewitson
Byron, Australia
updated August, 2010
now taking bookings thru November, 2010