Top things to do and see on a Mamanuca Islands Cruise

Modriki Island, also known as Monoriki or now Castaway Island, served as the backdrop for the iconic Castaway movie shot there on location. That's not all the island is known for, however. It's a site for incredible snorkeling.

The Sacred Islands are to the northwest of the Mamanuca Islands and are considered by some to be the birthplace of Fijian culture. It is a place of mysticism and ritual from the Tui Na Revurevu’s sacred pool which cannot be entered to the presentation of yaqona or kava at the sacred caves. The islands in the Sacred Island group include Vanua Levu, Eori, Navadra, Nai raviravi ni ui, and Musumusu ni karikari, also known as Camel Rock.

Scuba Diving during your small ship cruising around Fiji is suited for both experienced divers and beginners. Together with glass-bottom boat tours, snorkeling, Kayaking, and riding Stand-Up Paddleboards, you have access to manta rays, sharks, amazing soft corals, and may even spot a whale or dolphin.

Sport Fishing is also a popular activity during cruises around the Mamanuca Islands. If you've always dreamed of landing a big ocean fish, now is your chance.

Visit secluded beaches for a romantic series of stolen moments or to soak up some brilliant Fiji sun. It's easy to mix up water sports with some sunning on the beach.

Take a hands-on approach and learn the Fijian art of basket weaving, wood carving, or learn to cook traditional dishes to bring home some of the island. You can arrange for a guided island tour to visit the village or tour the local school.

Top Tips for visiting the Mamanuca Islands on a cruise

As you plan your trip, remember that Fiji is very busy during peak seasons. Your accommodations are already arranged on board, but you may want to call ahead to ask about activities you plan to do on the islands or have a backup plan in mind in case you don't have the patience for lines.

Arrive in Fiji a day or two before your departure to ensure you make it to the boat on time. Enjoy your time in Nadi before you set sail.

We have some recommendations to help you pack for success on your Fiji Cruise:

• Some sunscreen and a hat for exposure
• Insect repellent
• Clothing for a warm climate that's easy to layer to ward off a chill, water shoes, hiking shoes, and shoes you want to wear on deck
• We have snorkeling gear for you, but bring your own mask for a perfect fit
• A dry bag to protect your valuables
• An underwater camera for amazing shots of tropical fish

Best time to cruise the Mamanuca Islands Islands

The best time to visit the Mamanuca Islands has more to do with how busy things get during peak season than the weather, although there is a time of year to avoid. We have advice for both of these factors.

Peak times in Fiji bring more traffic and higher prices. Heavily traveled periods for cruises around the Mamanuca Islands will be more expensive and more crowded. July to August and Christmas/New Years are popular because families with children can holiday in Fiji while the kids are on a break.

Therefore, the Mamanuca Islands from March to October are less crowded and more cost-effective.

The Mamanuca Islands have a tropical climate which means a wet and dry season. Summer is the wet season and winter is the dry season.

The wet season experiences humid air with periods of rainfall and warm temperatures in the low 30s to 27 degrees Celsius at night. The rain isn't heavy enough to ruin your fun, however, so don't despair if this is a better time for you to travel.

Cyclone season is between November and March, and since Fiji is in the cyclone belt, guests should take care of this season.

May to September is the dry season runs from May to September. Temperatures are cooler, but still comfortable for swimming and time on the beach. It's slightly more comfortable at this time for long hikes or vigorous adventuring.

Many people dream of small ship cruising around Fiji to see Leatherback and loggerhead sea turtles and whales. The turtles nest from November through March. The whales are most active from July through October.

Where do Mamanuca Islands cruises depart from?

Fiji and the Mamanuca Islands may be a world away, but they’re easy to travel to! They are one of our easiest adventure cruises to work out, travel-wise.

Fiji Airways, Fiji’s national carrier, flies direct from most major airports in the world. Additionally, many major carriers also make stops at the Nadi International Airport, which is the island chain’s main airport.

That’s lucky for our guests because most of our Fiji small ship cruises to the Mamanuca Islands depart from Port Denarau, Nadi. Once you arrive, either meet your crew at the airport so they can escort you to the ship or at your hotel if you’ve arrived early.

Always check your departure point on your chosen itinerary for specific information on the cruise you booked.

Our reservations team can help you book your next cruise to the Mamanuca Islands in Fiji. Contact us today.