Overview
Palmerston Island is one of the most remote inhabited places in the Pacific, a coral atoll in the Southern Cook Islands with no airstrip and limited access by sea. It is famed for extraordinary hospitality to visiting yachts, with islanders competing to be the first to greet arrivals offshore.
Culture · Island
Before you go
Access
Palmerston Island has no airstrip and can only be reached by sea. Visiting yachts number about a dozen per year; supply boats arrive 2-3 times annually. Call ahead before arriving.
Accommodation
No hotels exist. By tradition, the family that greets you first will offer homestay at their home. This is the only option for overnight visitors.
Connectivity
Telephone service connects Palmerston to the outside world, but internet and mobile data availability is unknown and likely extremely limited or nonexistent.
Culture
All islanders descend from William Marsters, a 19th-century English settler, and speak English with a distinctive West Country accent. Three family groups make up the population.
Etiquette
Bring gifts when visiting: petrol, books, magazines, and fruit are especially appreciated. Avoid discussing internal politics among the three family groups.
Safety
Sailing conditions are hazardous year-round. The lagoon passage is treacherous. Hurricane season runs November through April. Only experienced sailors should attempt the journey.