Shopping

There is a small trade store at Tagula (Sudest) and two larger ones at Bwagoia (Misima), Bwagoia has a fruit and vegetable market (limited range). Really you cannot expect to purchase anything other than basic foodstuffs (rice, oil, biscuits etc.), bring everything you need, chances are if you are relying on buying something, it will be out of stock. Having said that, please do visit the stores and Bwagoia market and spend up big… an opportunity to contribute to the economy. Fresh bread is available from the bakery at Bwagoia.

Fuel

Fuel can be a problem with trade stores only holding modest supplies. For the Rallywe arrange an order based on prepayment, although delivery cannot be guaranteed by EcoSustainAbility. Small amounts may be available in Tagula and Bwagoia. Fuel aint cheap.. about double the Australian price, either sail or don’t complain!

Zoom (50:1 two stroke fuel) is always wanted throughout the islands and is a major “currency”. Whilst there are outboard powered dinghies at most islands, fuel is often unavailable and too expensive for everyday use.

Water

Its probably easier to buy diesel than get water. However, in an emergency water would be available from villages, however they rely on small rainwater tanks and would not have much to give away. It does rain a fair bit, so have an awning you can use to catch water.
If you don’t have a water maker, large tanks and it hasn’t rained make sure you are friends with some yachties with water makers (desalinators), however don’t ask them to give you their water without at least offering to give them some diesel… water maker water aint free you know!

Engine Parts, Electronics and Repairs

If you have an outrigger canoe with a polytarp sail, chances are you can get the materials and there’s the expertise to fix your problem. If you have anything that runs on electricity, involves a microchip or has internal combustion don’t expect any great expertise or parts. In an emergency parts can be air freighted up from Australia to Bwagoia but this is likely to involve lots of waiting around.
Best to service your engines before you go, carry a good set of spares (filters, belts, alternator etc.) and if any electronic gadget is “vital” take two. 

Haulout

The nearest haulout are slipways at Alotau and near Samarai in the China Straits.