Your Essential Guide to the Shores and Marinas of Fiji
By Captain Adrian Faulkner
“Take a look at this!” Jak was stabbing a headline in the Fiji Times: “YACHT CREW RESCUED”. A yacht had been wrecked on a reef near The Exploring Islands in the Lau Group. A ship had rescued five castaways and was returning to Suva with them. I thought of the horrors on that yacht. Quiet, gentle sailing. Starry night. CRASH! Violence, fear, screams, waves.
A large portion of yachts cruising Fiji each year begin their cruises in Savusavu, and end them in Nadi Waters (the large bay off Nadi which includes both Denarau and Vuda Point Marinas). Broadly speaking, there are three routes between these two places.
Whether you are anchored in the shelter of Malumu Bay, in the mouth of the Qaraniqio River, at Yanuca Island or even at the Royal Suva Yacht Club, a short boat ride to the mainland or a 45 minute drive along the coast from Suva will put you on the doorstep of Fiji’s reputed Adventure Capital.
Flanked by lush, jungle-clad hills on one side, and a fringing reef that dramatically drops into the deep blue of the Beqa Channel on the other, Pacific Harbour is home to some of Fiji’s most sought-after experiences – you know, the ones you cannot wait to call home to brag about!More info here…
Some important information for yachts traveling between Fiji and Rotuma from the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF).More info here…
As you travel from region to region and country to country, it is important to keep an eye out for rogue animals hitching a ride on the hull, in cupboards or within food items. Over the centuries, Fiji has fallen foul to many an introduced outbreak. From Cholera, to warfare and more subtle threats which take time to reveal themselves. While we appreciate you may be keen to get ashore and start exploring, it is imperative that you wait onboard for Biosecurity officers to board and inspect your vessel for such unwelcome hitchhikers.More info here…
You do not have to own a yacht to experience the beauty of sailing around the islands of Fiji. There are many reputable charter options available; from sailing yachts, catamarans and motor yachts to powerboats; choosing from skippered to entirely crewed – we have something for everyone! As a popular (and growing) super yacht destination, you will often find luxury super yacht charter holidays available too.More info here…
Vanua Levu is second in size to Viti Levu yet it is unique in the absence of tourist infrastructure and the slow pace of life. The north shore of Vanua Levu is one of the most unexplored and undiscovered areas of Fiji. It presents lush, unspoiled tropical beauty with a spattering of traditional villages set on beaches surrounded by thriving forests and coconut plantations. The protected waters of the leeward north coast where the winds are lighter and seas flatter offers the opportunity for diving, fishing, snorkeling and surfing in season.More info here…
Having logged nearly 60,000 nautical miles, world sailors, Joe and Julie are acutely aware of a fellow sailors needs! They used their travel experiences, ingenuity and passion for sustainable eco‐tourism to build Palmlea Farms Lodge & Villas on the northern coast of Vanua Levu. Palmlea Farms, Fiji’s first eco agri‐tourism resort. Big enough for service, amenities and fine food. Small enough for peace, privacy and tranquility it is both remote and unspoiled.More info here…
Levuka is a historical Port of Entry located on the eastern coast of the island of Ovalau. Formerly the Capital of Fiji, Levuka was listed as the country’s first World Heritage Site in June 2013!More info here…
Rakiraki in the province of Ra is a very traditional region. Sailing along the Sunshine Coast from Lautoka to Rakiraki makes for a beautiful voyage.
There is a clearly defined route on most navigational charts and electronic charts showing the inside passage from Lautoka all the way to Nananu-i-Ra, which is a regularly travelled route by local vessels. Alternatively, you can come in the Nananu-i-Ra passage that is a well-marked channel and come around the west end of the island.More info here…