Captain Cook Cruises Fiji’s refreshed Day Sail itinerary will offer a multi-stop experience beginning June 1st 2025.
Set sail on a tall ship to gorgeous Kadavu Lailai Private Beach and reef in the Mamanuca Group plus an optional side excursion to the beautiful Treasure sand bar and reef.
Building on the success of its highly successful authentic Fiji excursion formula, Captain Cook Cruises Fiji’s new itinerary is a must-do Fijian island experience where guests can enjoy the company’s own private tropical island beach with all its current inclusions, plus an expanded and enhanced program.
The Reef and Island Day Sail departs daily from Denarau Marina, Denarau for the spectacular Kadavu Lailai Private Beach with white sand, acres of coral gardens, and framed by a rich tropical rainforest full of fascinating indigenous flora.
Spend the day snorkelling and diving amidst Kadavu Lailai’s magnificent marine diversity, paddle boarding, kayaking or playing beach volleyball. Nature walks, guided snorkelling and glass bottom boat reef tours with Captain Cook Cruises’ resident marine biologist are on offer, as well as its ‘Build a Reef’ coral planting, monitoring and ‘Citizen Science’ programs. A fresh tropical BBQ buffet lunch, ice-cold beer, house wine and juices by the beach are included along with Fijian cultural entertainment with the dedicated crew.
Captain Cook Cruises Fiji’s tall ship Spirit Of The Pacific.
Captain Cook has pioneered marine science tourism experiences in Fiji and are very excited about the expansion of their program through the refreshed itinerary. Each day two dedicated marine biologists from the company’s expedition team will guide the multitude of activities as well as provide optional talks and briefings throughout the day, both on board and on the island.
For those who wish to add an extra location to their experience, an optional excursion to nearby Treasure Sand Cay is on offer. With a maximum 30 passengers, the side trip provides the opportunity to snorkel and dive the rich coral diversity around the sand bar, plus go ashore for some beach relaxation.
Other optionals include spa treatments, Padi 5 Star diving, private shade cabanas, premium bar options and special celebration packages.
Coral frag planting.
Reef and Island Day Sail Experience inclusions –
* Sailing experience aboard tall-ship between Port Denarau and the gorgeous Kadavu Lailai Private Beach in the Mamanucas – one hour each way
* Morning and afternoon tea served onboard
* 5 hours of island and reef relaxation and activities including snorkelling, kayaks, stand up paddle boards, volleyball, nature walks and a kids club
* Fijian cultural entertainment
* On board and on island talks as well as guided snorkelling and glass bottom boat tours by 2 resident marine biologists
* Reef restoration by planting a coral frag in Captain Cook’s ‘Build a Reef’ coral planting, reef monitoring and ‘Citizen Science’ programs. Earn an eco-certificate and make a direct impact on the oceans
* Tropical BBQ lunch served with beer, wine and soft drinks on the island
* Optional side excursion to the beautiful Treasure Sand Bar
* Return land transfers from Nadi hotels.
Captain Cook Cruises Fiji marine biologists.
For Enquiries & Bookings: Captain Cook Cruises Fiji
That was the title of the quick flyer made on Canva that was circulated to family prior to everyone gathering to celebrate a significant birthday. If you’re a little OCD and are hosting over 21 family members, having everything well organised is a must, which isn’t very difficult considering all the options available for a 10-day visit to Fiji.
And the truth was, that after a long, cold winter overseas everyone needed some Fiji! Whether Fijian by citizenship or Fijian by heart, the warm, fragrant air that envelopes you as soon as you step off the plane, the Bula smiles, fun and chatter as you exit the arrivals terminal, reminds you that you are ‘home’.
Of course, December through to February is the Fiji summer, so I had pre-warned everyone in advance that the weather might be mixed but the unified response was “but it will be warm!” And warm it was. Although, any time of the year is pleasant in Fiji.
All of our family like their food – not just any food, but with a mixed hospitality background and at least one chef amongst us, good food, a respectable wine menu, great ambience and service – all contribute towards our enjoyment.
Pineapples galore. EXPLORE Fiji photo.
Day 1 on the agenda was an evening meal to welcome all the arrivals and provide an opportunity to catch-up. Lulu Bar Restaurant & Cafe at Port Denarau is a five minute walk from our residence and it ticked all the boxes. Our table for 21 pax on the verandah, overlooking the harbour as the sun started to dip, was the perfect setting for the week ahead. As we finished our meal the heavens opened up and unleashed a deluge of rain, which didn’t make any difference to us, considering we were well protected by large awnings and umbrellas. In fact, the younger family members were enticed away from the shelter to finish the evening with a warm rain bath, and catching the end of the nightly cultural performance at the Port.
We were happy that the showers were well passed by the second day of our program, which was aimed at giving everyone a ‘white sand beach and translucent blue sea experience’ at Malamala, a slice of Fijian paradise. It was a stunning day and the sea was as smooth as glass for our comfortable crossing on board South Sea Cruises’ high-speed catamaran to our island day destination.
Malamala Beach Club in the Mamanuca Group. South Sea Cruises photo
Malamala Beach Club is the world’s first beach club located on its very own island in the majestic Mamanuca group of islands, just 30 minutes from Port Denarau.
We had booked the spacious beachside Grand Deluxe Cabana 1 to accommodate our group, along with chilled bu on arrival – the perfect fresh organic coconut water thirst quencher for everyone. All our delicious meals from the island’s Pacific-inspired à-la-carte menuwere ordered well in advance: Kaiviti Kokoda, Pacific Seafood Basket, Tacos, Sliders and Pork Bao (buns) to name a few. With 180-degree views of the white sand beach and beautiful ocean, our cabana came complete with butler service, bean bags and beach chairs.
So our only tasks were to relax, swim in the gloriously clear warm sea, lap up on natural Vitamin D, plus snorkel and kayak (depending on our energy levels), dip in the resort-style infinity-edge pool and laze in hammocks. With so much to enjoy, even the two youngest among us – a nine-month baby girl and her three-year-old sister – did not nap.
Pork bao
Malamala-signature bu
Sliders
Some of the younger ones (and a few older folks) waited for the tide to rise so they could jump off the end of the pier, as per the ritual that has developed over several years since the popular Beach Club opened in 2017.
There were a lot of tired, well sated, and very relaxed people as we made our late afternoon return on South Sea Cruises’ on-time ferry. Sunscreen had been amply applied, so there was some competition about the healthy glow to everyone’s skin as they shucked off the winter pallor.
When I was drawing up our itinerary, I had originally planned to provide everyone with some downtime on Day 3, booking a highly competent masseur to visit our house and provide the group with a traditional Fijian bobo. This deep-tissue massage was another ideal way of working away the tightness of muscles cramped by the cold and enabling everyone to have a further decompress. However, a fishing charter was also arranged, providing another great day out on the water for those keen on angling.
We finished our day at another one of the many dining options on Denarau – Mamacita Mexican Restaurant & Bar; the heart of Mexican gastronomy in Fiji. Situated at Club Wyndham Denarau Island, Mamacita has always been a popular dining experience for the younger ones amongst us (excellent frozen margaritas remaining a definite drawcard for the adults). Again, you can’t fault the experience according to our criteria, and the friendly service team arranged the booking to accommodate our large group under the verandah. The evening cultural performance was a hit and by the end of the day there were a lot of tired and happy people sinking into their beds.
Family members pose with Fijian entertainers at Mamacita Mexican Restaurant & Bar on Denarau. Photo courtesy of Steph Black.
We had always planned an early Christmas celebration whilst everyone was together, and that was scheduled for Day 4 as a late lunch/early dinner; the various activities on the island and the residence swimming pool kept everyone well-occupied during the morning, with everyone gathering together once more before the Christmas meal to share presents.
In order to manage energy levels (and the state of our kitchen) I had pre-arranged a magiti, or feast, of traditional Fijian dishes, including ota miti (bush fern in a coconut milk dressing), ika vakalolo (whole fish baked in coconut milk), roro balls (leaves of the dalo plant made into succulent balls and baked in coconut milk), dalo and cassava chips, smoked eggplant, octopus salad, prawns in coconut curry, a kaiviti (Fijian) stir fry, vegetable curry, roti and rice. This was devoured by all our foodies (little and large alike). Nadina Authentic Fijian Restaurant is one of our favorite restaurants at the Port and their ability to cater for events enabled us to bring the celebration home to be enjoyed.
Day 5 ramped up again with an excursion to the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa at Natadola Beach along the Coral Coast. Considered one of the 10 most beautiful natural beaches in the world, Natadola is a ‘must-see’ and more than manageable by car from Denarau. The resort itself is stunning, and we celebrated another birthday over lunch in the child-friendly Toba restaurant.
As you can imagine, our well-fed and sun-soaked tribe was definitely starting to slow down a little and so I had scheduled two ‘rest days’ into the itinerary, before a final celebration on Day 8, before everyone departed. The celebration consisted of another meal, but this time prepared by those based in Fiji for the visiting family. For the final family gathering, we purchased kalavata (clothing with matching patterns) in advance for everyone to wear for the occasion and celebrate the very special time we spent together.
‘Everyone needs some Fiji’ was more than just a rallying cry to gather and celebrate. It was the perfect tonic after a long year; it was a moment to recognise the value of the relationships we share, and a moment to touch the ground of the unique and special place we call ‘home’.
Nestled off the northern coast of Vanua Levu lies a hidden gem of the Pacific, the Great Sea Reef—locally known as Bainivualiku. Stretching over 200 kilometers, it is the world’s third-largest barrier reef, teeming with life and adventure. Despite its size and importance, the Great Sea Reef remains one of the least explored dive destinations globally, making it a must-visit for adventure divers.
The Great Sea Reef. Nukubati Island photo.
For those seeking such a dive experience, travel to Nukubati Island, where you can stay in comfort and spend your days exploring the reef’s untouched beauty. Unlike larger resorts, Nukubati is all about intimate experiences. With only a handful of guests at any given time, you’ll feel like the island is your own personal retreat. This exclusivity makes Nukubati the ideal location for exploring the Great Sea Reef, where diving is the highlight of your stay.
Nukubati Island is a dream destination for those who seek underwater adventure and authentic cultural experiences. Situated off the northern coast of Vanua Levu, Nukubati Island offers direct access to the Great Sea Reef where divers can encounter sharks, turtles, and a dazzling array of marine life in their natural habitats.
An underwater metropolis teeming with astonishing biodiversity including fish. Emilien Frarier photo.
Post-dive indulgence awaits Nukubati’s culinary experience, celebrating the island’s organic gardens and the abundant waters of Fiji. Guests can enjoy freshly caught seafood, tropical fruits, and dishes inspired by traditional Fijian recipes. Fine dining, sandbank picnics, and the famed tatavu beach barbeque – a seafood meal cooked on hot stones – enhance the immersive island experience.
At the heart of this adventure is Great Sea Reef Divers, led by local legend Leone Vokai. Leone is native to Mali Island. He grew up surrounded by the vibrant marine world of Bainivualiku and spent his life exploring and protecting it. His journey began humbly, running a dive operation from his village Ligaulevu and navigating divers from the Labasa River in a simple fiberglass boat. Today, Leone has partnered with Nukubati, combining his deep-rooted knowledge of the reef with sustainable, locally guided dive expeditions.
Leone’s passion extends beyond sharing the reef’s wonders with visitors; it’s about preserving its heritage and passing it on to future generations. He’s training local youth to join his dive team, instilling pride in their culture and stewardship of the reef. For Leone, “it’s more than just showing visitors the reef. I want to share our culture, teach people about the importance of our connection with the reef, and protect it for years to come.”
Diving the Great Sea Reef – locally known as Bainivualiku. Emilien Frarier photo.
The Dive Experience
Diving the Great Sea Reef is like stepping into an underwater world untouched by time. The reef’s thriving food chain means you’ll encounter an abundance of marine life, from majestic sharks to schools of vibrant fish. What makes this experience unique is that everything you see is in its natural state. There’s no baiting, no feeding—just the reef as nature intended it.
One of the most remarkable things about the Great Sea Reef is its resilience. Despite challenges like cyclones and rising sea temperatures, the reef has shown an incredible ability to recover. This vitality is a sign of its health and makes it one of the few remaining marine ecosystems where divers can witness such abundance and diversity.
Sharks are a particular highlight for many divers, and the reef offers plenty of opportunities to see these apex predators. The presence of sharks is a clear indicator of a healthy ecosystem, as it shows the food chain is intact and thriving.
For those who don’t dive, the reef is equally stunning from the surface. Snorkelling trips are available, allowing non-divers to explore the shallow coral gardens and spot marine life in crystal-clear waters. Nukubati also offers other ocean adventures, from stand-up paddleboarding to reef walks, ensuring everyone can enjoy the beauty of Bainivualiku.
Nukubati Island photos.
The Cultural Connection
The Great Sea Reef isn’t just a diving destination; it’s deeply tied to the lives of the people who live around it. For locals, the reef serves as a natural forecaster, providing signs of approaching storms, tidal surges, and even changes in water temperatures. This connection between the reef and the community has been passed down through generations, and it’s something Leone and his team are passionate about preserving.
When you dive or snorkel the reef with Great Sea Reef Divers, you’re not just exploring marine life – you’re learning about the cultural and environmental significance of the reef from those who know it best. Leone’s team shares stories about the reef’s role in their heritage, offering a deeper understanding of why it’s so important to protect it.
Famed tatavu – beach barbeque – a seafood meal cooked on hot stones. Nukubati Island photo.
Beyond Diving
When you’re not exploring the reef, Nukubati offers plenty of ways to relax and unwind. Enjoy a massage, paddle through the calm waters surrounding the island, or take a boat trip to a deserted sandbar for a private picnic. The resort’s commitment to sustainability means you can enjoy these experiences knowing that your stay is having a positive impact on the environment and local communities. As the first solar-powered resort in the South Pacific, Nukubati leads the way in sustainable tourism. The resort runs on solar energy, harvests rainwater, and implements waste-reduction practices to protect its pristine environment. This commitment ensures that both the reef and the surrounding island remain untouched for future generations.
Lara and Leone at the Great Sea Reef map.
Why Dive the Great Sea Reef?
Diving the Great Sea Reef is about more than just seeing beautiful marine life. It’s about connecting with the reef’s story, its people, and its importance to the northern Fiji’s coastal culture and environment.
Staying at Nukubati and diving with Leone and his team offers more than just incredible underwater views – it’s a chance to support sustainable tourism, empower local communities, and experience a side of Fiji that most travellers never see. Lara Meliki, Nukubati resort manager and founder’s daughter says, “we believe there is value in sharing our knowledge and traditional way of life when it comes to existing harmoniously with our surroundings. Whether you’re a diver or just someone who loves the ocean, this is an experience you’ll never forget.”
Ready to dive in? Contact Great Sea Reef Divers to book your Great Sea Reef adventure!
Set against the backdrop of Natadola Bay, this experience highlights the Fijian concept of Vanua – the deep connection between people, land, and community. The Vanua Immersion Dinner is ideal for large groups, incentives, or as part of a conference programme and offers delegates an opportunity to connect with Fijian culture in a memorable way.
What’s included:
Fijian-inspired buffet dinner – A spread of local dishes featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking styles.
Torch-lighting ceremony – The evening begins with the lighting of torches, a gesture of welcome and a symbol of togetherness.
Kava ceremony – Guests take part in this traditional ceremony, where kava – a drink made from yaqona root – is shared as a sign of respect and connection.
Art and craft demonstrations – Watch renown local artisans as they weave mats, and produce tapa cloth using techniques passed down through generations.
Meke dance performance – Dancers in traditional dress perform, sharing Fijian stories through movement and song.
Fire show – Skilled performers showcase an impressive fire display, rounding off the evening with energy and excitement.
Outdoor lighting, setup, and venue hire – A fully prepared outdoor setting provides a relaxed and natural backdrop for the event.
“The Vanua Immersion Dinner offers something totally unique for groups & meeting delegates visiting Fiji. It’s a chance for attendees to be immersed in Fijian culture, and enjoy an evening of connection and storytelling,” commented Lachlan Walker, Portfolio General Manager – IHG Hotels & Resorts, FNPF-Owned Hotels. “Every Vanua Immersion Dinner will be an incredible occasion, memorable experiences that every InterContinental around the world is known for”.
Available year-round for groups of 70 people or more, the experience is inclusive of food, entertainment, arts & crafts demonstrations, setup and lighting.
Prominent hotel group Tanoa Hotels showed their annual support for Pinktober with a generous $10,000 donation to the Fiji Cancer Society in the capital Suva today (Oct. 1st 2024).
Tanoa Hotel Group together with the Fiji Cancer Society launched “Awareness into Action” with “Walk for Pinktober” at My Suva Park along Queen Elizabeth Drive.
Tanoa Hotel’s Area General Manager, Narend Kumar, said the donation serves as the group’s corporate social responsibility initiative.
“These contributions provide much-needed support to those battling the disease. By working closely with local cancer societies, Tanoa Hotel Group ensures that its resources are directed toward initiatives that have a lasting impact on public health in the Pacific”, explained Kumar.
A Tanoa Hotel Group statement stated that while the group is helping to fight cancer, it is equally promoting a culture of awareness, early detection, and community solidarity in the face of a growing health crisis.
It further stated that as part of the Reddy Group of Companies, the hotel group’s efforts are a reminder that the corporate sector can play a critical role in addressing public health challenges, particularly in regions with limited access to healthcare services.
Fiji Gateway Hotel is expanding its offerings with the construction of a new two-storey accommodation building, designed to cater to the increasing demand from travellers transiting through Nadi.
The expansion project of the most convenient airport hotel in the region, begins this month (September 2024), and is expected to be completed by October 2025.
The development will add 47 new guest rooms and suites, including 44 Deluxe Rooms and three Two-Bedroom Suites, all offering rural views and modern comforts. The Deluxe Rooms will feature a King bed and a fold-out sofa, making them ideal for both leisure and business travellers, while the Two-Bedroom Suites, equipped with two Queen beds, will provide ample space for families, corporate guests and conference attendees.
An artist impression of the new accommodation building underway at Fiji Gateway Hotelin Nadi.
Lee Pearce, CEO of Raffe Hotels and Resorts, the parent company of Fiji Gateway Hotel, emphasised that the new accommodations will further enhance the hotel’s appeal to both leisure and business guests.
“Fiji Gateway Hotel has consistently operated at high occupancy,” said Mr. Pearce. “With surging demand and record visitor numbers for destination Fiji, we recognised the need to expand our inventory. Our strategic location and tropical aesthetic make us a top choice for travellers, particularly those visiting the group’s other properties, Plantation Island Resort and Lomani Island Resort in the Mamanucas Islands. Thanks to Raffe Group’s commitment to Fiji tourism, we’re excited to bring these new rooms to life by mid-spring 2025.”
Often described as an ‘old-world colonial oasis,’ Fiji Gateway Hotel boasts two swimming pools, a tennis court, a gymnasium, conference facilities, a boutique store, a mini day-spa, a restaurant, a bar, and even a casual poolside café for morning bites and coffee. Its greatest asset, however, remains its unbeatable location directly across the road from Fiji’s busiest airport and just 8km from Nadi town.
The new building will be strategically located on an unused section of the property, ensuring minimal disruption to the hotel’s existing character and guest experience. The expansion will see the hotel grow from 95 to 135 rooms next year, with plans to decommission several older rooms as part of this contemporary update. Following the completion of the new block, some older outdated rooms will be removed to allow for fresh landscaping and new pathways, seamlessly connecting the new rooms with the hotel’s main reception and dining areas.
Mr Pearce said, “Fiji has experienced a surge in visitor numbers in recent years, continuing its remarkable growth into 2024, with further increases in key months such as June and July. This growth underscores Fiji’s enduring appeal as a premier travel destination, making the timing of our expansion at Fiji Gateway Hotel particularly significant.
“Growth in Fiji’s tourism sector has also led to increased investor confidence, driving projects like the hotel’s expansion, which in turn contributes positively to the local economy and supports the broader tourism industry that so many in our community rely on.”
Still dreaming of a luxe cruise exploring Fiji’s remote islands?
Now is the time to book your holiday of a lifetime aboard the luxury expedition small ship MS Caledonian Sky as she does her final Fiji expedition in October 2024.
With less than 10 departures remaining, don’t miss the chance of an unforgettable adventure before the MS Caledonian Sky leaves Fiji. There is still time to experience the magic of her final expeditions into remote Fiji. Limited space is still available on the September and October itineraries that include previously unexplored remote locations, with expeditions to the otherwise unreachable islands in the Lau group and remote north.
Go beyond with exclusive access
With little contact with the outside world, this unspoilt paradise is open exclusively to guests when cruising abroad the Caledonian Sky. A new destination or even two each day. Visiting places far off the beaten track, villages and schools, experiencing traditional ceremonies and more – going where other travellers cannot get to.
Explore best-kept secrets
Captain Cook Cruises Fiji’s unmatched expedition team of marine biologists and cultural experts will guide and inform guests about the unexplored Lau Islands, the remote north of Fiji and beyond. A unique and exclusive opportunity to learn and experience.
Swim, snorkel, dive, SUP & kayak
Be guided by the ship’s experts and discover the pristine coral reefs and marine life of the remote reaches of Fiji, southern Tonga.
Ocean view suites
Comprising 57 exceptionally spacious, well-designed suites with ocean views arranged over four decks, all suites feature a sitting room area and some have private balconies.
Fijian flavours
Dining is a vital ingredient of the cruise. All food is prepared onboard, from fresh, local and imported produce. Its onboard entertainment adds an authentic flavour to the mix.
Cruise inclusions
– All meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) – Expedition team of Marine Biologists, cultural experts and Ocean Ambassador program. – Guided island, village, school and shore excursions. – Snorkelling (equipment provided) and glass bottom boat tours, kayaking and SUP. – Kava (Yaqona) ceremony and tropical lovo feast – Transfers from the ship to most Nadi/Denarau hotels – Complimentary 24-hr tea/coffee/filtered water.
Nukubati Great Sea Reef is a self-sustaining carbon-negative island resort in the province of Macuata in the northern Fiji Islands, where you can fulfill romantic and adventurous desires. Scuba diving on the pristine Great Sea Reef, the world’s third-largest barrier reef, is a major activity, including excellent snorkelling, fishing, and introductions to Fijian culture and traditions.
Nukubati’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in every aspect of island life.
The owners of eco-chic Nukubati are proud pioneers of sustainable tourism in Fiji. Their resort is powered by the first and largest solar power plant in the country, which generates over 50 Kilowatts of electricity every day from the sun.
Its fresh water is harvested rainwater, filtered, and UV-treated, ensuring a sustainable and reliable source of water for our guests. Hot water is produced by more than a dozen solar water heaters, reducing our reliance on non-renewable sources of energy.
The island resort takes pride in its commitment to responsible waste management. All domestic and grey water is recycled, and sewage is treated using natural bio-cycle systems, with the refreshed and UV sterilised wastewater used for gardens. All organic waste is composted and used to grow their very own organic vegetables and fruits using tropical permaculture techniques.
Don’t look for air conditioners or a swimming pool. The resort owners intentionally left them out to reduce carbon footprint. Instead, the buildings are designed to take advantage of sea breezes, providing natural ventilation and keeping everyone comfortable. Its swimming pool is the South Pacific Ocean, the largest swimming pool in the world!
At Nukubati, sustainable tourism is not just about reducing its impact on the environment, but also about supporting the local communities and preserving their way of life. They work closely with local organisations in promoting marine conservation and sustainable tourism practices.
Visit Nukubati for a truly sustainable and unforgettable experience.
