Sailing conditions are rough at the best of times. Monsoon and hurricane seasons can be extremely wild. Do not attempt to navigate to Palmerston unless you are an accomplished sailor.
respect
The Palmerston Islanders are honest, hardworking and dedicated people. They have great respect for their religion and traditions, however they are not morbidly religious and enjoy a good party as much as the next man.
The islands are remote, and the telephone service provides its only link with the outside world. If you visit you should try to bring some gifts. Petrol is appreciated, and reading material and fruit are always eagerly received.
As with any small community, there is tension between the three main family groups. As a visitor you should take care to avoid any gratuitous comments relating to the internal politics of the islanders.
talk
English is universally spoken, with a distinctive West Country accent. This is the legacy of William Marsters, the original settler of Palmerston, who populated the island with the assistance of his three Polynesian wives. The current generation of Islanders are his descendants.