Yasawa Island Group, Fiji discovery cruise / 200nm / 24 may - 1 jun 2025
9 days / cat 3 sailing expedition / Event #2520 / TE KAIHŌPARA: Crew positions available
Overview
The majestic Yasawa Islands group lies northwest of the main island of Viti Levu in Fiji and stretches 62nm into the South Pacific Ocean. Their remoteness, white sand beaches, clear blue lagoons and unique terrain, makes this remote, rugged and authentic group of 20 ancient islands, one of the most stunning regions of Fiji. Fortunately because of this remoteness to the mainland, commercial development has never taken hold.
Formed several million years ago by volcanoes, the southernmost islands of Kuata and Waya Lailai have dramatic elevations, incredible rock formations and summits at almost 600 metres above sea level. The pristine beaches and dramatic landscape provide a beautiful environment in which to relax or enjoy away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland.
Many of the Yasawa islands are home to traditional island villages and it's these Fijian people who help make this cruising adventure magical. This 8 day cruising adventure will include a series of day hops and overnight anchorages in peaceful sheltered bays at many of the following islands in the group; Kuata, Waya and Waya Lailai, Viwa, Naukacuva, Nanuya Balavu, Drawaqa, Naviti, Yaqeta, Matacawalevu, Nanuya Lailai, Tavewa and Nacula.
We’ll island hop our way through the archipelago to standout spots like the awe-inspiring Sawa-i-Lau caves, swim with mesmerising mantas and discover delightful underwater coral gardens. There are secret beaches to discover, deserted bays to snorkel and scenic lookouts where you can watch the sun slip into the sea.
Famous for its natural beauty, the ‘Blue Lagoon’, is ringed by islands with soft rolling peaks. Coconut palms line the whitest sandy beaches you have ever seen and the water is a mix of aqua and turquoise, so stunning that you’ll want to dive right in and discover the coral reefs below. In the midst of the Blue Lagoon is what’s considered to be the jewel of the Yasawas - ‘Nanuya Lailai’. Dotted with palm trees and surrounded by a coral lagoon, the island is truly one of Fiji’s gems. The surrounding waters are alive with colourful fish and coral.
Referred to as ‘the very heart of the Yasawas’, the majestic Sawa i lau Caves are one of the ‘must-do’ activities for sailors visiting the spectacular Blue Lagoon. The ancient limestone formations, carved by constant wave action, are hidden within a little island in the northern Yasawas. The history of the caves is legendary; the story goes that a young Chief once safely settled with his betrothed in the cave after her family threatened to marry her off to a rival Chief. Every day he would swim into this hidden grotto with food for the girl until eventually they both escaped to the safety of another island and to be together forever. The sacred Sawa i lau Caves are also known as the resting place of the ten-headed ancient Fijian god, Ulutini.
Passage Plan
Event registration
Secure your place on this adventure with a 20-50% deposit / All prices in AUD
Current price release: Early Bird
Pre-release - SOLD OUT
SHARED CABIN: Early bird $5,250 pp
PRIVATE CABIN: $14,175 (includes 3 berths)
Final Release 6,750 pp
Expedition Description
Vuda Marina
Vuda Marina, located on the western coast of Fiji's main island, Viti Levu, is the ideal starting point for any sailing adventure in the Yasawa Islands. Steeped in history, Vuda Marina is believed to be the landing site of the first Fijians over 3,000 years ago. Today, it is a bustling hub for sailors, offering modern facilities and a warm Fijian welcome. The marina’s picturesque setting, framed by coconut palms and crystal-clear waters, makes it a perfect place to prepare for your journey into the islands.
Kuata
Kuata Island is known for its dramatic landscape, featuring rugged volcanic cliffs and pristine beaches. It’s a fantastic spot for adventurous travellers, offering excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities, particularly with the island’s resident reef sharks. The local village offers a chance to experience authentic Fijian culture, making Kuata an essential stop on your sailing itinerary.
Wayasewa Island
Wayasewa Island, sometimes referred to as the ‘little island with a big heart,’ is a small yet vibrant destination in the Yasawas. The island’s friendly local community invites visitors to explore its stunning beaches and participate in traditional Fijian activities. The views from the island’s summit are breathtaking, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding archipelago.
Naukacuvu Island
Naukacuvu Island is a tranquil paradise, perfect for those looking to unwind and connect with nature. The island’s white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters are ideal for swimming and snorkelling. The vibrant coral reefs surrounding the island are teeming with marine life, offering an unforgettable underwater experience.
Nanuya Balavu Island
Nanuya Balavu Island is a hidden gem in the Yasawa Islands, offering seclusion and natural beauty. Its serene beaches are the perfect spot for relaxation, while the surrounding waters are rich with coral reefs, making it a fantastic destination for snorkelling and diving. The island’s peaceful atmosphere makes it an excellent retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
Drawaqa Island
Drawaqa Island is renowned for its incredible marine life, particularly the majestic manta rays that frequent its waters. The island’s surrounding coral reefs are some of the most vibrant in the Yasawas, offering unparalleled snorkelling opportunities. A visit to Drawaqa provides a unique chance to swim with manta rays, making it a highlight of any sailing trip.
Naviti Island
Naviti Island is the largest in the Yasawa group and offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors. From its lush green hills to its beautiful beaches, Naviti is an adventurer’s paradise. The island’s waters are perfect for snorkelling and diving, with a variety of colourful fish and coral to discover. Naviti’s welcoming villages provide a glimpse into traditional Fijian life, making it a culturally enriching destination.
Yanggeta Island
Yanggeta Island is known for its untouched beauty and tranquil atmosphere. The island’s remote location makes it a perfect spot for those seeking solitude and a closer connection with nature. The surrounding waters are ideal for snorkelling, with vibrant coral gardens and an abundance of marine life waiting to be explored.
Matacawalevu
Matacawalevu is a long, narrow island known for its scenic beauty and traditional Fijian villages. The island’s beaches are stunning, and its hills offer panoramic views of the surrounding islands. Matacawalevu is a fantastic place to experience authentic Fijian culture, with opportunities to visit local villages and participate in traditional ceremonies.
Nanuya Lailai Island
Nanuya Lailai Island is famous for its breathtaking Blue Lagoon, a stunning bay with turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. The island offers some of the best snorkelling in the Yasawas, with vibrant coral reefs just offshore. Nanuya Lailai’s natural beauty and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for sailors.
Tavewa Island
Tavewa Island is a small but beautiful island known for its lush greenery and pristine beaches. The island’s laid-back vibe and stunning scenery make it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Yasawas. The surrounding waters are ideal for snorkelling and kayaking, offering plenty of opportunities for exploration.
Nacula Island
Nacula Island is the third-largest island in the Yasawa group and is known for its dramatic landscapes and friendly local communities. The island’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in Fiji, and its interior is dotted with traditional villages. Nacula is a great place to experience Fijian culture and hospitality while enjoying the island’s natural beauty.
Sawa-i-Lau Caves
The Sawa-i-Lau Caves are one of the most iconic attractions in the Yasawa Islands. Located on the northern tip of Nacula Island, these limestone caves are steeped in legend and offer a unique adventure for visitors. The main cave is accessible by a short swim, and for the more adventurous, a second chamber can be reached by diving underwater. The caves are a must-visit for those looking to experience one of Fiji’s natural wonders.
ACTIVITIES INCLUDED
Click the links above to review examples from previous sailing events across New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific Islands.
HERE’S WHAT YOU WILL EXPERIENCE ONBOARD
Sailing: Hoisting, trimming and reefing both upwind (main, genoas, and jibs) and downwind sails (poled out headsails, spinnakers, gennakers and code 0’s (subject to weather).
Watch duties: Acting as watch captain (day and night), helming, navigating, checking weather and monitoring AIS and radar and for both traffic and rain squalls.
Weather: Downloading and analysing the latest weather forecasts and calculating best route to destination.
Navigation: Navigating, hazard identification, entering waypoints and calculating updated ETA’s.
Leadership: Watch roster planning, matching responsibility to experience, crew management and communication.
Safety: Familiarisation of all safety procedures, sail planning, storm preparation planning and abandon ship procedures.
Training: Use of PDF’s (Personal Flotation Devices), PLB’s (Personal Locator Beacons), safety tethers, dan buoy’s, storm drogue, liferaft and any other equipment required to ensure you remain safe in all conditions.
Personal wellbeing: Advice on how to take responsibility for managing clothing, hydration, sleep and nutrition to maintain your health and well being aboard.
Passage planning: Planning our arrival and route to safe harbour including timing with daylight (if required), weather factors, navigational hazards, communications / customs and sail/motor arrival plan.
Click the links above to review examples from previous sailing events across New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific Islands.
Weather impact
With any regatta or expedition we have to plan around the weather. We always aim to plan our events to coincide with the optimum time of the year, for the best conditions. Safety and comfort of the crew and vessel, always takes priority over the original schedule. Sometimes we’ll need to adapt the schedule and modify plans, to maximise the onboard experience and enjoyment to keep everyone happy and safe.
Extra reading
itinerary
You can fly directly into Nadi Airport on or before the 24th of May 2024. When you arrive at Vuda Marina, we'll familiarise you with the yacht, systems and safety equipment and you will join us for a crew welcome dinner. We will aim to depart (subject to weather) around 10am on the 25th of May and leave the Vuda Point Marina, heading NW for the first of our Yasawa Island anchorages. You are welcome to stay onboard from the date you arrive, but if you plan to arrive prior to the 24th of May, you may need to arrange accommodation ashore.
The goal is to explore the Yasawa Island group over the following 8 days, stopping daily at selected bays, attractions and islands en-route. We will aim to sail back into Vuda Point Marina on the 31st of May and you can stay onboard on return before departing out of Nadi Airport on the 1st of June.
Arrive at the vessel in Fiji by 4pm on 24/5/25
Crew welcome dinner on 24/5/25
Crew training and safety familiarisation 25/5/25
Depart Fiji around 12pm on 25/5/25
Arrive back in Vuda point by 3pm on 31/5/25
Crew farewell dinner on 31/5/25
Depart Fiji on 1/6/25
Getting to and from there
Arrival Airport: Nadi International Airport
Departure Airport: Nadi International Airport
Listen to the podcast
Weather impact
With any regatta or expedition we have to plan around the weather. We always aim to plan our events to coincide with the optimum time of the year, for the best conditions. Safety and comfort of the crew and vessel, always takes priority over the original schedule. Sometimes we’ll need to adapt the schedule and modify plans, to maximise the onboard experience and enjoyment to keep everyone happy and safe.
Inclusions
Your crew package includes; all meals onboard, and any designated crew meals ashore, accommodation onboard, Fiji Cruising Permits, your Ocean Sailing Expeditions crew shirt, marina fees, the use of a PFD (personal flotation device), PLB (personal locator beacon), and a safety tether. Your bedding, a pillow and towel are also included along with suncream.
PRIVATE CABINS
There are two private cabins available and they include a double and single berth in each.
If you book a private cabin, you can have 1 , 2 or 3 occupants.
The price for a private cabin is the combined price of 3 berths, less 10%.
If the single berth rate is already discounted, there is no further discount for a private cabin.
Exclusions
Your crew package excludes; accommodation ashore, flights and transport to and from departure and arrival ports, alcohol, toiletries, clothing and wet weather gear.
Its always recommended that you book flights with date flexibility incase of unforeseen changes due to weather or schedules. Accommodation options if you want to stay ashore either side of trip: AirBNB, Booking.com, Wotif & HomeAway.
Review sailing calendar for all events