Best Fiji cruises and areas to visit

Mamanuca Islands cruises set sail in idyllic waters in search of local cross coral reefs and striking blue lagoons. The Mamanuca Islands comprise 20 islands, only some of which have residents. We are likely to stop at South Sea Island and Bounty Island in addition to the popular Beachcomber. There, you can enjoy time on the beach, a meal, a swim or snorkel with reef sharks. Kayaking, semi-submersible coral viewing, windsurfing, hiking, and spending time in the village are also possible during your stay.

Yasawa Islands cruises visit another section of Fiji islands. The Yasawa Group is made up of approximately 20 volcanic islands in the Western section of the Fiji archipelago. See Naviti Island’s Botaira Beach Resort with secluded beaches and a wide variety of ocean life just off the coast. Take a visit to the famous Blue Lagoon, where you can find the whitest sand beaches, clear blue waters and great snorkelling. You'll also have the chance to explore the Sawa-I-Lau Caves, an ancient limestone formation, carved by constant wave action. Mountain ranges reach toward the sky and picture perfect white-sand beaches dot the coastal landscape. What a backdrop for some great snorkelling! You may see more reef sharks here as well as tropical fish. Arrange a catamaran or walk to any of the sparkling bays or volcanic features you want to explore.

Vanua Levu or Sandalwood Island is the second largest island in the Fiji archipelago, but it’s known as ‘Big Island’. Geologists believe the island may be made up of several small islands that fused together over the years through uplift. This is yet another island in Fiji surrounded by stunning coral reefs. That means it's great for snorkelling and swimming, but it's more relaxing than Viti Levu so you can also just lay about on the beach if you like. If you are ready for time out of the water, see the sugar cane and copra plantations, sleepy villages, mountain passes adjacent to waterfalls, endless forest, and unique coastline.

Best time to cruise in Fiji

The best time to visit Fiji is mostly a personal preference because the weather is warm and mild most of the year. Your decision to plan ahead may end up focusing on the peak and off-peak seasons.

Peak & Off Peak Seasons - Peak times in Fiji will be more expensive and more crowded. Fiji in July to August is experiencing a peak season and things get busy again during the Christmas/New Year period when schools around the world are on break. You may get more out of your experience if you can travel during the off-season, such as March to October.

Weather In Fiji - Like most tropical destinations, Fiji has two seasons: a wet and dry season. The wet season is during the summer. Temperatures are high, low 30s to 27 degrees Celsius or so at night. The air is humid, and it rains nearly every day for at least a period of time. Fiji is within the cyclone belt so take care to keep this in mind before travelling to Fiji between November to March.

The dry season runs from May to September. Temperatures are still warm enough to comfortably swim and enjoy the beach and the sun shines brightly.

Leatherback and loggerhead sea turtles nest from November through March and July through October is a great time to see whales in Fiji.

How to get to Fiji

The Nadi International Airport on Fiji is the airport most travellers will arrive at. Additionally, there are several smaller, domestic airports on some of the other islands. Fiji Airways flies from Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney, Singapore, Hong Kong, Honolulu, Los Angeles, and seasonally from San Francisco. Jetstar, Air New Zealand, Korean Air, Pacific Blue, Virgin Australia, Air Niugini, Air Vanuatu, Air Caledonie and Our Airlines all fly to Fiji as well.

Visitors from most countries will be issued an automatic 4-month visa provided they have a valid passport that is good for 6 months past your visit. Check to see if your origin country qualifies.

Where do Fiji cruises depart from?

Each itinerary for a small ship cruise around Fiji is different, but most leave from Port Denarau, Nadi. This is also where most guests fly into. A member of the crew will meet you at the airport to escort you to the ship.

Please be sure to check your departure point on your specific itinerary so you can arrange flights to the most convenient place.

Fiji Cruise Tips

• Plan ahead to be sure you will have accommodations you need when you get to shore by travelling during off-peak times. If you are visiting Fiji during peak travel times, bring your patience. It's also wise to have a backup plan just in case you have issues changing plans or due to flight delays.
• In order to be sure you make the boat, we recommend that you arrive 1-2 days early. You can enjoy some time in Nadi until the ship sails.
• Choosing the right trip for you is essential. If you want an adventure cruise, you will arrange active activities when you make land. If you want to lay about on the beach or float in a glass-bottomed boat, that's great too.
• We recommend the following items to make your stay most pleasant: suncream, insect repellent, hats, clothing for a warm climate but that you can layer for comfort, water shoes, deck shoes, and hiking shoes, your own snorkeling gear (some sets are available on board, but yours will fit best), a dry bag for your electronics, and a camera.
• A 4-month visa is usually granted automatically on arrival to visitors from most countries. All you need is a passport that is valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay. Please check entry requirements for your country of origin before travelling. You can exchange currency at the airport and some cruise ports as well. Fiji spends the Fijian Dollar but also accepts Australian currency in most locations.

Explore Fiji on board a small ship cruise, take a look through the different itineraries on offer and contact our reservations team to discuss your next trip.