Maria Est

Maria Est is a maritime boundary around an atoll in the Gambier Islands of French Polynesia. It defines the waters that fall under French jurisdiction and extends across the surrounding ocean.

The boundary emerged from international maritime law established through the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. France and Australia reached a specific agreement to delimit their marine zones in this region.

The maritime demarcation influences fishing practices and marine resource management for communities in French Polynesia's southeastern archipelago.

Navigators use maritime charts and GPS coordinates to observe this boundary when traveling through the area. Vessels must respect the territorial restrictions when passing through French Polynesian waters.

The boundary line follows modified equidistant lines that do not simply split the difference between territories. This deviation reflects the complex coastline and geological features of the Gambier Islands.

Location: Gambier

Part of: Tuamotus

GPS coordinates: -22.01667,-136.18333

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:42