Yasawa Island Group, Fiji discovery cruise / 200nm / 23 - 31 May 2025
8 days / cat 3 expedition cruise / Event #2422 / TE KAIHŌPARA: Full / silver FErn: CREW positions available
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Overview
Set sail for an unforgettable eight-day adventure across the pristine waters and unspoiled landscapes of Fiji's Yasawa Islands, beginning your journey at Vuda Marina. Your first destination, Kuala, offers a perfect introduction to the islands' lush environments and traditional culture. As you navigate to Wayasewa Island, experience its vibrant local life and stunning vistas. Continue to the serene shores of Naukacuvu Island, ideal for relaxation and water activities. Explore the secluded charm of Nanuya Balavu Island, followed by a visit to Drawaqa Island, where you can witness the majestic manta rays in their natural habitat. The larger Naviti Island welcomes you with its rich cultural heritage and diverse ecosystems. On Yanggeta Island, enjoy tranquility away from the typical tourist paths, while Matacawalevu presents opportunities to engage with local artisans. Nanuya Lailai offers picturesque beaches and intimate coves, and nearby Tavewa Island is a vibrant mosaic of colour and life. Continue to Nacula Island for a taste of authentic Fijian hospitality before concluding your journey with the mystical allure of the Sawa-i-Lau caves, famous for their ancient limestone formations and sacred legends. Each destination on this sailing tour is a unique gem, providing rich experiences and lasting memories.
Passage plan
Crew registration
Secure your place on the crew with deposit options from 20%.
SHARED CABIN: AUD$2,875 - discounted 50% (PER BERTH)
PRIVATE CABIN: AUD$7,762 (INCLUDES 3 BERTHS)
8 days
Expedition Description
Vuda Marina
Located on the western coast of Fiji's main island, Viti Levu, Vuda Marina is a premier destination for sailors seeking both convenience and charm. As a natural point of entry to the Mamanuca and Yasawa island groups, it offers excellent facilities and services tailored to the nautical traveller. The marina is encircled by lush tropical gardens and provides direct access to a variety of amenities including restaurants, bars, and cultural sites. Vuda's historical significance as a landing spot for ancient Polynesian voyagers adds a rich cultural layer, making it not just a logistical hub but a place of discovery.
Kuala
Kuala is a quaint Fijian village known for its serene environment and the warmth of its inhabitants. Located in the Yasawa Islands, Kuala is less traversed by mainstream tourism, offering an authentic glimpse into the traditional Fijian way of life. Visitors can engage with local craftspeople, participate in village ceremonies, and learn about the sustainable practices that define everyday life here. The natural surroundings are breathtaking, with lush greenery and pristine waters that are perfect for kayaking and snorkelling.
Wayasewa Island
Wayasewa Island, often called Waya Lailai, is renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and friendly local community. The island offers spectacular hiking opportunities, including treks to high peaks from where panoramic views of the archipelago can be enjoyed. Wayasewa's cultural vibrancy is on full display through its village dances and traditional crafts. For sailors, the surrounding waters provide safe anchorage and the chance to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear blue lagoons.
Naukacuvu Island
Nestled in the heart of the Yasawa Islands, Naukacuvu Island is a slice of paradise known for its white sandy beaches and vibrant coral reefs. This secluded island is perfect for those seeking tranquility and an escape from the bustling tourist paths. The underwater scenery here is spectacular, making it a prime spot for diving and snorkelling. Naukacuvu's laid-back atmosphere is complemented by its luxurious yet understated accommodations, providing a peaceful retreat after a day of sailing and exploration.
Nanuya Balavu Island
Nanuya Balavu Island, part of the Yasawa group, is a haven for peace-seekers and nature enthusiasts. The island's lagoon, with its calm turquoise waters, is ideal for water sports such as snorkelling and paddleboarding. The dense vegetation and tropical forests offer a cool respite and the chance to observe local flora and fauna. Nanuya Balavu is also home to a small, welcoming community that offers insights into their sustainable lifestyle and traditional fishing techniques.
Drawaqa Island
Drawaqa Island provides a unique natural phenomenon between May and October, where visitors can witness the majestic manta rays that migrate through its channels. The island's Marine Reserve status helps protect its diverse ecosystem, making it a vital area for conservation and an excellent spot for eco-tourists to learn about marine life. Aside from its ecological significance, Drawaqa offers beautiful beaches and the opportunity for night snorkelling, adding a touch of adventure to its tranquil appeal.
Naviti Island
Naviti Island, one of the largest and most populated in the Yasawa group, is renowned for its vibrant culture and robust community. This island offers a captivating mix of sandy beaches, rugged coastlines, and dense, jungly interiors, perfect for explorers. The local community is deeply connected to their environment, and visitors are often welcomed to participate in traditional ceremonies and kava sessions, providing an authentic cultural experience. The surrounding coral reefs are alive with marine life, making Naviti a comprehensive stop for both cultural immersion and natural exploration. Sailing here promises a blend of scenic beauty and enriching encounters with Fijian traditions.
Yanggeta Island
Yanggeta Island is a sanctuary of untouched beauty and minimal human impact, ideal for those seeking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. The island boasts dense tropical forests and unspoiled beaches, providing a serene backdrop for relaxation and meditation. For sailors, Yanggeta offers peaceful anchorages and the opportunity to explore its pristine environment without the crowds found in more frequented areas. The island’s untouched landscapes and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect retreat for those yearning for solitude and natural beauty.
Matacawalevu Island
Matacawalevu Island is famed for its lush landscapes and rich tradition of artisanal crafts. This elongated island in the Yasawa group is a haven for traditional Fijian weaving and pottery, offering visitors a unique cultural experience. The island’s natural harbours make it accessible for yachts, while its coastal waters are perfect for fishing and diving, revealing vibrant coral life beneath the surface. Sailors visiting Matacawalevu can enjoy the island’s scenic beauty, engage with local craftspeople, and explore the rich marine ecosystems that surround it. This destination offers a harmonious blend of cultural heritage and natural splendour.
Nanuya Lailai Island
Nanuya Lailai Island is a quintessential Fijian paradise, famed for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters. This idyllic island is home to one of Fiji's most photographed beaches, celebrated for its stunning blue waters and soft white sands. The island’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, revealing hidden coves and excellent snorkelling spots along the way. With its laid-back vibe and breathtaking scenery, Nanuya Lailai is a favourite among sailors seeking a picturesque and relaxing stopover. Sailing here promises tranquil days spent soaking up the sun, snorkelling among vibrant marine life, and enjoying the serene beauty of this tropical haven.
Tavewa Island
Tavewa Island, a vibrant gem in the Yasawa group, is known for its colourful coral gardens and welcoming community. This small island is alive with traditional Fijian music and dance, offering visitors an authentic cultural experience. Tavewa is also at the forefront of sustainable tourism, with various initiatives in place to protect its natural beauty and support the local community. Sailors will find a warm welcome here, with plenty of opportunities to dive into the rich marine life, explore the island's lush landscapes, and engage with the friendly locals who are eager to share their traditions and stories.
Nacula Island
Situated at the northern tip of the Yasawa chain, Nacula Island captivates visitors with its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The island's hilly terrain provides excellent hiking opportunities, leading to panoramic views of the surrounding archipelago. The clear, warm waters around Nacula are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, teeming with vibrant marine life. The island’s villages are well-preserved, reflecting the locals' deep respect for their customs and traditions. Visitors to Nacula can immerse themselves in traditional Fijian hospitality, experiencing the island's cultural richness through local ceremonies, dances, and crafts. Sailing to Nacula offers a blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural discovery.
Sawa-i-Lau Caves
The Sawa-i-Lau caves are a natural and cultural treasure within the Yasawa Islands. These limestone caves are accessible by water and are known for their majestic formations and sacred pools. Local legend holds that the caves are the resting place of a Fijian god, and their mystical atmosphere is palpable. Swimming through the caves' clear, blue waters is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines adventure with a sense of ancient mystery.
ACTIVITIES INCLUDED
HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL 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.
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
OCEAN SAILING PODCAST
Itinery
You can fly directly into Nadi Airport on or before the 22nd of May 2025. 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 23rd 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 22nd of May, you may need to arrange accommodation ashore.
Arrive at the vessel in Port Vuda Marina by 4pm on 22/5/25
Crew welcome dinner on 22/5/25
Crew training and safety familiarisation 23/5/25
Depart Vuda Marina around 12pm on 23/5/25
Arrive in back in Vudu Marina by 3pm on 31/5/25
Crew farewell dinner on 31/5/25
Depart Southport on 1/6/25
Inclusions
Your crew package includes; all meals onboard, crew meals in Fiji and various stopover ports, 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
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.
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