Fiji Getting Around
The farther you venture from major cities like Suva and Nadi, the more interesting the travel options become. You can get around Viti Levu by air-conditioned coach or minibus, or the local bus. Taxis and car rentals (both international and local brands) are available. Two domestic airlines–-Fiji Link and Northern Air–-serve nine of the outer islands from either Suva or Nadi. There are plenty of seaplane and helicopter charters for those who want to get to their destination quickly. For those traveling on “Fiji-time,” the local ferry might be an option, as it usually arrives sometime the next day. There are few roads on the outer islands, so boats are typically the best way to get around.
Island-hopping is a great way to see the archipelago, and interisland ferry trips and sightseeing tours in the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands have increased because of this. In addition to island resort transfers, these ferries effectively offer day trips to some of the closer islands, as you hop off on their way out, then catch the last ferry on its way back. One such ferry, the Yasawa Flyer, is particularly popular with backpackers who can stay a few days here and there, planning their trip almost as they go.
Cruising the Islands
Fiji is one giant port of call. Cruises of all sizes and variety flourish in this island nation, and seeing Fiji by water is one of the best ways to experience its diversity and beauty. Major cruise lines–-Crystal Cruises, Holland America, P&O Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Royal Caribbean International–-do call into Suva or Lautoka, but if you're planning on visiting Fiji as a destination, the best value for your money is to go with one of the many local options. Cruises are available from nearly every location (Nadi, Suva, Savusavu, Yasawa, etc.), and vary in price, depending on luxury, uniqueness, and privacy.
Local Cruise Lines
Awesome Adventures - The Yasawa Flyer. The Yasawa Flyer serves the Yasawa Islands resorts, leaving Port Denarau in the morning, reaching the northern Yasawas just after lunch, and returning back to Port Denarau in the late afternoon. Port Denarau Marina, Nadi, Viti Levu. 675--0499; www.awesomefiji.com.
Blue Lagoon Cruises. Blue Lagoon Cruises specializes in three- to seven-day boutique island cruises in the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands. Port Denarau Marina, Nadi, Viti Levu. 670--5006; www.bluelagooncruises.com.
Captain Cook Cruises Fiji. Captain Cook Cruises Fiji has a fleet of small cruise ships and windjammers that offer everything from 11-day cruises to one-day excursions or dinner cruises. Cruises offer combinations of island-based activities: snorkeling, diving, and visits to natural features such as waterfalls, as well as cultural activities, including church, school, and village visits, complete with a kava ceremony, meke dancing, and a lovo feast. Port Denarau Marina, Nadi, Viti Levu. 670–1823; www.captaincookcruisesfiji.com.
Seahawk Yacht Charters. Seahawk Yacht Charters has a charter yacht for hire, complete with captain and crew, for overnight, day, or picnic cruises around Savusavu and Taveuni. Savusavu, Vanua Levu, Northern. 885–0787; www.seahawkfiji.com. All meals.
South Sea Cruises. Several routes of resort transfers are offered around the Mananuca Islands, which can also be taken as a day trip. Catamaran day cruises that pass uninhabited islands are also available. Port Denarau Marina, Nadi, Viti Levu. 675–0500; www.ssc.com.fj.
Tui Tai Expeditions. If you're into adventure cruising mixed with cultural immersion, Tui Tai Expeditions is for you. Five- and seven-day itineraries are offered around Vanua Levua and Taveuni, with daily scuba and snorkeling sessions, as well as land-based and cultural activities; luxury yachts hold no more than 24 guests. Savusavu, Vanua Levu, Northern. 999--6365; www.tuitai.com.
