Relaxed Experiences

15
min
Relaxed Experiences: By Sea

Intro

Situated in one of the most beautiful areas in the world, Fiji is known for its many exotic and scenic islands. It has a tropical climate, abundant sea life, crystal-clear tropical waters, and excellent sailing conditions. With a diversity of experiences, modern facilities, and friendly locals known for their cheeky humour and hospitality, it is easy to see why Fiji is such a popular cruising destination. Send your clients in full cruise mode and book one of the 3-11-night island-hopping itineraries with fantastic small ship cruising companies like Captain Cook or Blue Lagoon Cruises.International cruise companies also regularly visit Fiji’s waters, however they tend to stay only 2-3 nights which doesn’t give their passengers enough time to see what cruising the Fijian islands is all about. Fiji is also a major yachting hub in the South Pacific, offering world-class port and marina facilities and entertainment for owners and crew. A sailor could happily spend months exploring, swimming, and diving off Fiji’s 333 islands and 1.29 million square kilometres of pristine ocean.Even without the luxury of your own boat, there are still heaps of options to get you out on the water. Island day trips and charter yachts are a popular option for short cruises through some of Fiji’ most stunning island regions. It’s also a great way to get the best mix of land and small island adventures.

Cruising

Stunning New Vistas Daily

True relaxation is a multi-day cruise through Fiji’s stunning islands. On a trip with Blue Lagoon Cruises or Captain Cook Cruises, the views change daily. You’ve got new peaks to hike, white sand beaches to explore and jewel coloured reefs to snorkel every day. You will find resorts are scattered throughout these islands but only a cruise can combine the luxury and adventure of seeing it all with unpacking only once.

True relaxation is a multi-day cruise through the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands - a cluster of stunning islands to Fiji’s far west. On a multi-day cruise with Blue Lagoon Cruises or Captain Cook Cruises, the views change daily. So you’ve got new peaks to hike, white sand beaches to explore and jewel coloured reefs to snorkel everyday. Resorts are scattered throughout these islands but only a cruise can combine the luxury and adventure of seeing it all.

‍The all-Inclusive Cruise Life

You’ll stress less when you indulge in an all-inclusive holiday on the ocean. Most local cruises in Fiji include cabin accommodation, meals, land-excursions and multiple non-motorised activities in their itineraries. There are also add-ons like diving and spa treatments that will cost a little extra.  So that leaves you to sit back and worry about the big decisions – like when to fit in some serious snorkel time or when to have your next cocktail.

‍Secluded Beaches and Pristine Coral Reefs

Fiji’s 333 islands are known for their long white-sand beaches, secluded inlets and shimmering blue lagoons. Despite their popularity, it’s still easy to feel like you’ve got paradise all to yourself. Your cruise itinerary could see you dropping anchor for a sandbar picnic lunch, snorkelling within a marine sanctuary, or sunbathing on the deck with a good book.

‍Family Cruise Packages

Cruises aren’t only just for couples anymore, families with kids that are 5 years and above can join in too. Captain Cook Cruises welcome families year-round and even run a kids club for 5 – 9-year olds. Blue Lagoon Cruises usually offers adults-only cruises however during New Zealand & Australia’s school holidays you will find some special ‘Family Cruises’ on offer. Check out their websites for all the nitty gritty details about their seasonal cruises, children age limits, family discounts, and kid-friendly activities.

‍Tick off the Mamanuca & Yasawa Islands Regional Highlights

With islands strung out across the ocean, it can be hard to fit in ALL of the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands. Luckily most highlights are part of the itinerary on these multi-day voyages.  On a 7-day cruise you can play ‘Cast Away’ on Monuriki’s famous beach, swim with majestic manta rays when in season (May – October) or take a breath-taking dip in Sawa-i-Lau’s luminous saltwater cave pool.  Shorter itineraries will include fewer highlights.  Check your cruise itinerary to see what is in store for you.

‍Itinerary Options

If your clients are worried that a cruise is just a tad too long, simply choose a shorter itinerary. Both cruise companies in Fiji offer 3, 4- and 7-day itineraries, so you can always opt for a shorter cruise to satisfy your clients tropical island cravings. A shorter cruise will leave more time for a bit of resort time, river rafting, ziplining or souvenir shopping on the mainland. 

If your clients are wanting to experience as many of Fiji’s Islands as possible then the 7-day itineraries are a great way to go! Don’t forget that Captain Cook Cruises also offers the occasional departure of their unique 11-night Lau & Kadavu Cruise, perfect for those clients who want to visit some of Fiji’s more remote parts.

International Cruise Ships

Most international cruise companies include Fiji as part of their South Pacific voyages. These big ship cruises will give your clients a glimpse of Fiji but keep in mind that their itineraries are limited due to the difficulty in navigating the many reefs located in and around Fiji. The main ports of call for large cruise lines are the ports of Lautoka and Suva Harbour with Port Denarau also accessible via tender. If your clients want a more in-depth cruise experience then checkout Captain Cook Cruises and Blue Lagoon Cruises.

Sailing

Sailing through Fiji’s tropical warm waters is one of the best ways for a complete and immersive Fiji island experience, and there’s 333 of them! Passing through the South Pacific region on a yacht can be the adventure of a lifetime with some of the world’s most beautiful backdrops, however it is worth noting that the islands are also subject to their cyclone season during the warmer months from November through to April each year.

Cyclones (hurricanes and typhoons to those in the northern hemisphere) although infrequent, can sometimes happen and are unpredictable by nature, so if you are planning on sailing through the South Pacific, you should always stay alert and be ready during this season. 

Fortunately for sailors, Fiji has weathered many tropical storms and have become resilient in that there are several cyclone anchoring recommendations scattered throughout the islands. 

‍Charters

If you don’t happen to own a yacht, then there are several companies offering fully crewed yacht charters in Fiji. All you need to do is grab your travel companions and they will take care of the rest, right down to the meals on board.

*Please note that there are no bareboat charters possible in Fiji 

‍Yacht Charters 

Cruising & Sailing Regions

Mamanuca Islands

Fiji's most well-known and accessible islands are visible just off the coast of Nadi. The 20 palm-fringed Islands that make up the Mamanuca island group are known for their white sand beaches, coral gardens, thriving reefs, epic waves and a tranquil lagoon at their doorstep. 

Some of the islands may even look familiar!!! Think of Tom Hank’s “Cast Away” and the reality TV show “Survivor Fiji” both of which were filmed in this area. The Mamanuca Islands also offer famous dive sites such as the Big W and Gotham City.

Yasawa Islands

This island group begins just northwest of Viti Levu (Fiji’s Largest Island) and makes up one of the most spectacular island regions in the country. The Yasawa Islands cater to those who are looking to get off the well-trod path and directly experience Fijian culture, adventure and nature.

In season, visitors can swim alongside manta rays and there is great snorkelling all year round. Moor at a different island every day to swim, fish, visit villages and meet the locals over a Lovo (earth oven meal), or just relax on your own secluded beach or cove. The Sawa-i-lau underwater caves are a must-see: you will be guided by friendly Fijians to explore the secrets within the ancient limestone formations. Those up for more excitement can swim into a magnificent cavern through an underwater tunnel.

Lau Islands 

Strewn along Fiji’s eastern edge, Lau’s exquisite islands are only visited by a lucky few. Besides the exclusive Vatuvara Resort, the region has largely resisted tourism’s lure but has become a very popular cruising destination for passing yachts. With no banks, bars or bistros in sight, it’s as remote as it gets in Fiji.

Kadavu Island

Kadavu Island, in Fiji’s south, is best known for the Great Astrolabe Reef, which runs along its southern shore and arcs north-east past Ono Island up to Buliya Island, which is famous for manta ray snorkelling.

The Great Astrolabe Reef is a breeding ground for big fish like tuna, marlin, giant trevally, and sharks. The environment makes for adventurous drift diving, with sites like Naiqoro Passage where you can experience big fish action against a background of colourful soft coral walls.

Savusavu & Taveuni

Laid back and uncrowded, Vanua Levu’s tropical beauty and simple, slow pace make it the perfect place to reboot. Spectacular reefs can be found minutes from the mainland so it’s no surprise that diving’s also huge here. Many sailors have simply chosen to stay due to how beautiful it is up here.

Many yachties use this little pocket of paradise to restock and mingle with the friendly locals before cruising Fiji’s remote Lau islands

Visit the local market to purchase Kava (a root of the Piper methysticum plant) while you are there. This can then be used to present an ‘i-sevusevu’ (traditional protocol: presenting a gift to request permission to visit) to any remote villages whose territory you cross.

Bringing a Yacht to Fiji

Like all countries, Fiji has strict rules and protocols for the arrival and operation of yachts in Fijian waters. If your clients are looking to take their own yacht to Fiji then this article has some helpful tips - https://www.fiji.travel/en-au/articles/bringing-a-yacht-to-fiji

Fiji’s Blue Lanes

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Fiji’s Marinas

Once your clients passed all requirements to bring a yacht to Fiji, they are all set up to explore every coastal corner of our far-flung islands.

Marinas are located in a handful of regions offering all the comforts and convenience of a safe berth and the chance to restock, refuel and regale fellow sailors with your Fiji adventures.

Below is a list of marinas to help plan sailing routes across Fiji. The marinas can be contacted directly and we recommend to download a copy of the Fiji Shores & Marinas Guide for more advice on discovering Fiji‘s 333 picture-perfect islands in the comfort of your own yacht.

Port Denarau Marina

Port Denarau Marina in western Viti Levu is the ideal place to begin your exploration of Fiji.

Port Denarau boasts 52 fully serviced berths and 16 swing moorings, including 20 berths capable of taking superyachts up to 85metres in length with a 5-metre draft.

There is a supermarket, pharmacy and money exchange at the Port’s retail area with numerous shops, spas and restaurants to help you restock and relax. Denarau Island famous resorts are just a short stroll or Bula Bus ride away and if you need to, it’s easy to flag a taxi or bus ride to Nadi town and the Nadi International Airport.

Coordinates: 17o 46’18” South | 177o 22’56” East
VHF 16 & 14

‍Vuda Marina Fiji

If you’re planning on being in Nadi for a while, Vuda Marina on the other end of Nadi Bay is another convenient berth.

Accessible through a 25m reef channel, the Marina is a yacht haven with space for 78 boats including 40 cyclone pits for monohulls.

The Boatshed restaurant is an excellent place to grab a meal and cold drink and there is a chandlery, general store, showers, laundry and accommodation facilities onsite as well.  The area has a number of resorts along the same stretch of road and it’s just a short taxi or bus ride away to Lautoka city, Nadi International Airport and Nadi town.

Coordinates: 17° 41.00 South | 177° 23.00 East
VHF:16 & 11

‍Musket Cove Marina

This picturesque home of the annual Fiji Regatta Week is located on Malolo Lailai in the stunning Mamanuca Islands.  

The Musket Cove Resort and Marina has sheltered moorings, marina berths and access to the resort’s excellent restaurants, bars and facilities like fuel, laundry, showers, a general store and ATM services.

It’s worth staying a while because these islands are a magnet for water lovers with plenty of fishing, diving, kiting and surfing, especially at nearby world-class breaks like Cloudbreak, Restaurants and Wilkes.

Coordinates:  17° 4.27 South | 177° 11.45 East
VHF Channel 64, 68

‍Copra Shed Marina

This historical Savusavu landmark was renovated in 1989 to house the Copra Shed Marina - an icon in this charming Vanua Levu town.

Centrally located along Savusavu’ s waterfront, the Copra Shed is sheltered from bad weather by Nawi Island. The marina contains 24 floating dock berths for vessels up to 20m and 21 moorings in total.

Besides an excellent restaurant and cafe, you will also find the Savusavu Yacht Club, Fiji Airways and Fiji Link offices, chandlery, an art gallery, and a gift shop within the same building.

Laundry, shower, and accommodation facilities are also available and getting to town is as easy as stepping onto the street – you are practically in the middle of it all.

Coordinates:  16° 46.7 South | 179° 20.0 East
VHF Channel 16 & 17

‍Royal Suva Yacht Club

Boat traffic in Suva Harbour can get busy, so if you’re planning on visiting Fiji’s capital city- Suva, the Royal Suva Yacht Club is a good spot to base yourself.

The RSYC caters mostly to local boat owners but do a number of mooring facilities for visiting yachts. You will need to become a temporary RSYC member if you want to use any of the Club’s facilities.

Coordinates:  18° 07.04 South | 178° 25.80 East
VHF Channel 16 & 68

‍Savusavu Marina & Boatyard

Located at the end of Nakama creek and protected by the Nawi island and a ‘dog’s leg’ reef, Savusavu Marina is one of three marinas in Savusavu. Expect to find all the usual facilities here – Wi-Fi, electricity and water supply, showers, freezer, and laundry services. But one of the marina’s best features is cyclone safety – with haulout and yacht services available and 20 strong cyclone moorings to see you through the season. Each mooring has 3 spiral pins for extra strength during bad weather.Like the others in the town, Savusavu Marina is just a short stroll away from all the area’s best supermarkets, hospitals, restaurants, butchers, bakeries, and banks. Coordinates:16ᵒ 46.5335 S, 179° 20.590 EVHF Channel 16

Popular Day Excursions & Itineraries

  1. South Sea Sailing
  • Enjoy a full day sailing experience with Fiji’s newest day experience. The brand-new sailing catamaran “SABRE” will take your guests around Fiji's Mamanuca Islands. 
  • The boat has large shaded canopies with a range of seating options from bean bags to booths. You can be lazy or can experience the crystal blue waters with snorkelling gear provided. Access to the water is easy off the front of SABRE via stairs or a slide. 
  • Click here for more info - https://www.southseacruisesfiji.com/day-cruises/south-sea-sailing/ 
  1. Seaspray Day Adventure
  1. Tivua Island 
  • Step aboard the tall ships – Ra Marama & Spirit of the Pacific – or the luxurious sailing catamaran Fiji One to set sail for beautiful Tivua Island, a tiny jewel in the Mamanuca island group.
  • Tivua Island is Captain Cook’s exclusive atoll surrounded by a circle of white sandy beach and 500 acres of coral gardens. Here visitors will enjoy an unforgettable day in paradise, with a big range of activities to choose from and something for absolutely everyone.
  • Click here for more information - https://www.captaincookcruisesfiji.com/day-cruises/tivua-island-day-cruise/
  1. Malamala Beach Club
  • Malamala Beach Club is Fiji’s first beach club located on its very own island. It is for day-use only and offers no accommodation. 
  • Access is easy with two daily departures from Port Denarau, so your clients can enjoy the beach club with a full or half day pass and experience white sand beaches, beachside cabanas as well as a resort style infinity edge pool and a big choice of non-motorized water sports.
  • Malamala Beach Club offers a delicious a-la-carte menu from light bites, Asian and Pacific inspired dishes, shared platters and an array of hand-crafted cocktails – all combined with laid back tunes mixed all day long.
  • Great to be offered as a last day beach option for those clients leaving Fiji on a late evening flight. 
  • Click here for more information - https://www.southseacruisesfiji.com/day-cruises/malamala-beach-club/ 
  1. Fishing in Fiji
  • Fish charters are available for hire from Fiji’s many ports and marinas or offered through the resort and available at a range of budgets.  From value seeking group charter budgets to larger budgets seeking custom world-class boat charters.  
  • There is a year-round supply of tropical fish and home to some of the largest game fish in the world making Fiji a world-class destination for deep sea fishing.
  • Fishing season is year around in Fiji, though peak season is often considered to be June-August.  
  • Many resorts own their fleet and friendly game fishing crew who’ll take you trolling for impressive varieties of fish.   
  • Fiji is home to a few world-records were some of the largest fish in the world were caught.
  • Bring your own gear or rent from your resort or from one of the marinas.

Did You Know?

  • Did you know that you can learn to dive while cruising on both Captain Cook Cruises? If your clients are cruising for 4 nights or longer, they may like to take the opportunity to complete their PADI Open Water Course. For more information click here (Link - https://www.captaincookcruisesfiji.com/packages/diving-packages/)
  • Did you know that Musket Cove Yacht Club & Marina is home to the annual Fiji Regatta Week? Bringing together yachts from all over the world
  • Did you know that Blue Lagoon Cruises offer special family sailings during the New Zealand & Australian school holidays?

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