Local Flights
REAL Tonga provides air services to the five major island groups of ‘Eua, Ha’apai, Vava’u, Niuatoputapu and Niuafo’ou.
Flights:
Tongatapu to Vava’u: Twice daily
Tongatapu to Ha’apai: Once daily
Tongatapu to ‘Eua: Twice daily (AM and PM, an ideal flight for a day trip)
Tongatapu to the Niuas’: Once a week
Note: There are no flights anywhere on Sunday.
FERRY SERVICES
Most of the Island groups are serviced by inter island ferries, these are mainly used by the Tongan people as an affordable means of transport. These ferries also carry cargo and livestock etc and provide a vital link between the island groups. Visitors to Tonga can also travel on these ferries, most of which depart from Queen Salote Wharf in Nuku’alofa. Tickets are generally sold on board and also note there are no sailings on Sundays.
BUS SERVICES
Once again like the ferries, the bus services are mainly used by locals and because there are no scheduled timetables visitors tend to find their use as a means of transport frustrating. Buses run from between 8am and 5pm and can be waved down. Local knowledge about how to use the service is a real advantage and both locals and the drivers are only too happy to assist in this area.
TAXIS
There are many taxis throughout Tonga with the majority based in Tongatapu. Taxis are often unmarked and are identified by the letter T at the beginning of the number plate.
Taxis are not metered and it is important to always agree on the fare before departure. An acceptable fare from the International Airport to downtown Nuku’alofa would be $30 and short trips around the capital $5-$6. Taxis can also be hired for a half or full day for sightseeing
RENTAL CARS
Rental cars are another popular way to get around Tonga and there are a number of companies operating rental fleets in Tonga. A Tongan visitor driver’s license can be easily obtained from the Ministry of Transport in Nuku‘alofa and is required for all drivers in Tonga. Tongan’s drive on the left hand side of the road and the speed limits are generally low compared with Europe or the USA.
TOURS
A great way to get around Tonga and also experience some of the places of historical, ecological and cultural interest is to book an organised tour. Various Tour companies on all the major island groups operate sightseeing tours using minibuses or 4×4 vehicles. In Vava’u, Ha’apai and Tongatapu you can also organise boat tours to the outer islands of their group.
WATER TAXIS
One way or round trip transfers between islands on fast, reliable and comfortable speed boats fitted with modern safety equipment will take you to your destination in comfort and style
YACHT CHARTER
Sea Star is a classic beautiful CT 54′ ketch designed for ocean sailing, offering safety and comfort, making you feel at home while cruising through the blue waters of the south pacific. Discover the magic beauty of many Tongan Islands on Sea Star. Just sit back, relax and enjoy, knowing everything will be done for you by a professional skipper and crew. Enjoy the peaceful sailing, set foot on uninhabited Islands, go swimming or snorkelling in crystal clear water, catch your own fish for dinner, watch whales in season and sample the delicious creations of international and Polynesian cuisine.
Source: http://www.tongaholiday.com/islands/transport/
