The Vava'u (pronounced "vav-ah-oo") Group of islands lies 240km (150 miles) north of Tongatapu and is the northernmost of Tonga's three island groups. It is fairly isolated and many of the local people live a traditional subsistence lifestyle, owning small farms and serving most of their needs from what they produce.

Vava'u group is considered to be Tonga's sailing centre. It is a beautiful cluster of waterways and pristine, sparsely inhabited islets, at the centre lies an immense harbour. Neiafu Harbour is a very secure harbour that is protected from wind and waves on all sides. The town of Neiafu is the second-largest in Tonga with a population of about 6,000. It is perhaps the most touristy place in Tonga but also is the administration centre so it is our first stop.