After visiting the Calvados chain in Papua New Guinea, in late September we made our way to Ghizo in the Solomon Islands some 300 miles in a NE direction towards our next major destination, Japan.

Ghizo is the Solomons second biggest town but only has a population of some 3500. It is an official entry port. There are several anchorages that one can choose very close to the town itself, the most popular being deep in the end of the harbor, close to PT109, a restaurant named after President Kennedy's vessel that sank not 5 miles from here. The restaurant serves as the HQ for the Ghizo Yacht Club and some assistance can be expected by the cruising yachtsman, albeit minor due to the smallness of the organization.

Ghizo offers an airport with daily flights to the capital, Honiara, and then connections to other parts of the world. Several general stores, a 'supermarket', bakery and an excellent fresh food market that operates on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, provide facilities for re-provisioning. Access to the Internet is available from the national Telekom office or you may plug in your laptop at the Internet caf� located under the Ghizo Hotel.

The hotel and several restaurants offer the opportunity to eat out. Diesel is available at the Melanesian Energy Depot which has a tie alongside concrete wharf from which they can dispense fuel from drums.

Another place worth visiting in the area is Liapari Island, twelve miles from Ghizo. Noel Hudson & his wife Rose run a ship building and repair business called Liapari Ltd. (Tel: 677-30441; Fax 677-30297; liapari@solomon.com.sb ) For years they've welcomed yachties and provided secure storage for yachts over the cyclone/typhoon season in their totally enclosed lagoon. This facility is an absolute find in a country that has practically nothing for repairing yachts and no marinas. They have 2 sets of haulout tracks that take up to 150 tons; a tractor crane for mast removal; 24/7 security; laundry; showers; water; an extensive engineering workshop; diesel engine repairs; welding and 240V power supply both at the slips and for secured vessels. They also provide fast powerboat access to Ghizo once a week.
There are dozens of sandy and coral island anchorages and diving spots within 2/6 hours sailing of this anchorage including Kennedy Island where the President swam to after being shipwrecked. One could do worse than to base him/herself here in the cyclone season.

For Photos see : Solomons, western Province in the Gallery section