With the exception of the main island of Funafuti, yachts rarely visit the islands. Although some only have precarious anchorages in the lee of a fringing reef, the lagoon is accessible in at least two islands, at Nukufetau and Nanumea, and there are plans to open passes into some of the other lagoons. Particularly if sailing towards neighbouring Kiribati, one should try and obtain permission from the authorities in Funafuti to stop at some of the outer islands. There are cooperative stores selling mostly imported food on all the islands. Local produce is available on all islands, but the selection is limited - taro, coconuts, papaya and bananas.
Water is scarce, as the islands rely on rainfall.
In the rainy season, rain can be heavy and one can easily collect enough. There are only simple repair facilities available in Funafuti and nothing in the other islands. Weather Tuvalu lies on the northern edge of the hurricane belt, and occasionally severe cyclones strike the islands, as did cyclone Ofa in February 1990. There is little seasonal change in the climate, although in October to March strong westerly winds and heavy rainfall can occur. 2000-2001 Noonsite Ltd.