The approaches of ships and crafts from the east towards the main reef is practically impossible due to the absence of an updated hydrographic survey and also as a result of strong South East Trade Winds and South-East equatorial current. The bay on the western side of the reefs is sprawled with islets, rocks and shoals. These are more often submerged during bad weather. The available navigational aids are very crude and preclude safe navigation during poor light conditions and inclement weather