Lord Howe Island Lagoon, 750km ENE from Sydney. Note entrance to harbour from Pacific Ocean through coral reef; and in lower right of lagoon the remnants of Jacques del Mar wrecked in 1954. Wharf around corner of point middle left.

Many small touring ships visit the harbour, but only one regular, see pic of Island Trader http://www.shipspotting.com/modules/myalbum/photo.php?lid=602726&cid=106

19th century whalers from New England and Europe on 3/4 year voyages obtained respite here. Pacific Island Traders regularly visited. From 1954 to 1974 flying boats from Sydney landed on the lagoon with schedules determined by high tide.

Mt Lidgbird and Mt Gower dominate the south in this pic taken from Mt Eliza.

The harbour facilities are the safe anchorages in the middle of the Western Pacific Ocean. Ships need their own cargo handling equipment. It has also been retained because of described historical interest and dramatic view.