Honiara

Before I arrive in Honiara, I have a few q's:

1. Is it possible to buy outdoor gear there? I am after butane gas canisters and a compass.

2. How about electronic gear? I am after a new battery for my nikon coolpix camera.

3. I arrive on 22nd September (Thursday) and am wanting to head West to the Marovo Lagoon by ferry as soon as possible - what are my ferry options?

4. How about ferries to Savo and Tulagi? Are they daily?

Thanks in advance.

1. There is a gas appliance shop in the middle of Honiara. However, scheck that whatever you buy is threaded the same way as yours - sometimes the ones in Solomon islands are opposite to Australian ones, for example. Not sure about the availability of small canisters, though. I woulld take a compass with me, as I am not sure where ou would find one in Honiara (it is often hard even to find a working can opener).
2. Decent batteries are impossible to get. I use AA camera batteries, and there are only one or two place that even sell ones strong enough to use in a camera (alkaline) Lithium ones are totally unavailable. I usually buy batteries at the duty free shop at Brisbane Airport, if I have forgotten to get them before.
3. The best boat to Marovo is the Express, which leaves early Sunday morning. There is another slower one weekly, not sure which day.
4. No ferries to Savo - get an outboard from the beach beside the Point Cruz yacht club. (You will need to negotiate with someone there). Tulagi, generally 3 boats a week - go to the wharf and ask the locals.
   PS Have you booked accommodation in Honiara? It is in short supply, and needs to be booked in advance, especially if ou are looking for budget accommodation..

Thanks for the info OG - no booking for Honiara hotel yet, that's todays job!