Yasawa Island Group, Fiji discovery cruise / 200nm / 18-30 jul 2025
13 days / cat 3 expedition cruise / Event #2419 / SILVER FERN: LAST 3 CREW POSITIONS AVAILABLE
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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.
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$4,375 - DISCOUNTED 50%
13 days
EXPEDITION DESCRIPTION
VUDA MARINA, FIJI
Nestled in the heart of the South Pacific, Vuda Marina is a premier yachting destination in Fiji. Established in the 1960s, this historic marina is celebrated for its unique circular design, echoing ancient Polynesian harbours. The marina boasts modern amenities, including excellent repair facilities, vibrant dining options, and a welcoming atmosphere. Situated near the bustling town of Lautoka, visitors can immerse themselves in local Fijian culture, cuisine, and shopping. Vuda Marina serves as the ideal launch point for exploring the stunning Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands, renowned for their crystal-clear waters and breathtaking landscapes.
KUATA
Kuata Island, part of the Yasawa group, is renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and warm Fijian hospitality. This rugged island offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Explore the towering cliffs and panoramic views through hiking trails, or dive into the crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life. Kuata Island is also famous for its shark snorkelling experiences, where you can safely swim with reef sharks. The island's local community is eager to share their rich cultural heritage, making Kuata a truly enriching and unforgettable destination.
WAYASEWA ISLAND
Wayasewa Island, also known as Waya Lailai, is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The island’s history is deeply rooted in Fijian legend, with stunning landscapes that include rugged cliffs and lush rainforests. Visitors can enjoy an array of activities such as snorkelling, diving, and hiking. The island’s friendly locals offer a warm welcome and a glimpse into traditional Fijian life. Wayasewa’s serene beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and cultural experiences make it an ideal destination for a diverse and fulfilling escape.
NAUKACUVU ISLAND
Naukacuvu Island is a tranquil haven in the Yasawa chain, renowned for its pristine beaches and lush greenery. This island is a perfect destination for those seeking peace and relaxation. The azure waters surrounding Naukacuvu are ideal for snorkelling and diving, revealing vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life. The island’s serene environment and natural beauty provide a stunning backdrop for leisurely walks along the beach, making it an idyllic spot for a peaceful retreat.
NANUYA BALAVU ISLAND
Nanuya Balavu Island offers a secluded escape with its pristine beaches and turquoise waters. Rich in history and culture, the island provides a unique backdrop for your sailing adventure. The vibrant coral reefs around the island are perfect for snorkelling and diving, showcasing a dazzling array of marine life. Relax on sun-kissed shores, explore hidden lagoons, or interact with the welcoming local community. Nanuya Balavu is a haven for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty in an untouched paradise.
DRAWAQA ISLAND
Drawaqa Island is a marine enthusiast’s dream, famous for its seasonal manta ray encounters. This island offers exceptional opportunities for underwater exploration, with its clear waters and thriving coral reefs. Snorkelling or diving with these majestic creatures is a highlight, but the island also boasts scenic hiking trails and serene beaches. Drawaqa’s unspoiled beauty and vibrant marine life make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
NAVITI ISLAND
Naviti Island is one of the largest in the Yasawa group, offering a rich tapestry of activities and experiences. Its lush interior invites exploration, while the surrounding waters are perfect for snorkelling and diving. Naviti’s traditional Fijian villages provide a cultural immersion, allowing visitors to experience local customs and traditions firsthand. The island’s stunning beaches and diverse landscapes create a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
YANGGETA ISLAND
Yanggeta Island is a hidden gem in the Yasawa archipelago, known for its serene beaches and vibrant marine life. The island’s clear waters are ideal for snorkelling and diving, with colourful coral reefs and abundant sea life. Explore the island’s hidden coves, relax on its sandy shores, or venture into its lush interior. Yanggeta’s unspoiled beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect destination for those seeking solitude and natural splendour.
MATACAWALEVU
Matacawalevu Island is known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The island’s rugged terrain offers excellent hiking opportunities, while its clear waters are perfect for snorkelling and diving. Visit local villages to experience traditional Fijian life and enjoy the island’s serene beaches. Matacawalevu’s natural beauty and cultural richness make it a captivating destination for those seeking adventure and cultural immersion.
NANUYA LAILAI ISLAND
Nanuya Lailai Island is a paradise for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. The island’s pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters offer excellent opportunities for snorkelling, diving, and kayaking. The island’s vibrant coral reefs are teeming with marine life, making it a haven for underwater exploration. Nanuya Lailai’s tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty make it a perfect escape for those seeking relaxation and adventure.
TAVEWA ISLAND
Tavewa Island is known for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life. The island’s crystal-clear waters and colourful coral reefs offer excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities. Explore the island’s lush interior, relax on its serene beaches, or visit local villages to experience Fijian culture. Tavewa’s natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful and enriching getaway.
NACULA ISLAND
Nacula Island, one of the largest in the Yasawa group, offers a diverse range of activities and experiences. The island’s stunning beaches, clear waters, and lush interior provide a perfect setting for adventure and relaxation. Snorkel in the vibrant coral reefs, hike through the island’s scenic trails, or visit traditional Fijian villages. Nacula’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty make it a captivating destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
SAWA-I-LAU CAVES
The Sawa-i-Lau Caves are one of Fiji’s most famous natural attractions, steeped in legend and offering a unique and adventurous experience. Swim through the cool, clear waters of the caves, explore the hidden chambers, and learn about their fascinating history. The caves’ limestone formations and mysterious atmosphere make them a must-visit for those seeking adventure and cultural insight.
HONIARA
Honiara, the capital of the Solomon Islands, is a city rich in history and culture. The city played a significant role in World War II, with numerous historic sites and memorials to explore. Visit the bustling markets, immerse yourself in local culture, and enjoy the beautiful coastline. Honiara offers excellent opportunities for sailing and water sports, making it a captivating destination with a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
SANTA ISABEL ISLAND
Santa Isabel Island is known for its lush rainforests, vibrant marine life, and rich cultural heritage. The island’s stunning landscapes offer excellent opportunities for exploration, from hiking through rainforests to snorkelling in clear waters. Visit local villages to experience traditional Solomon Islander life and enjoy the island’s serene beaches. Santa Isabel’s natural beauty and cultural richness make it a perfect destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
BOUGAINVILLE ISLAND
Bougainville Island offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore the island’s stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant coral reefs. Visit the historic sites from World War II, immerse yourself in the local culture, and enjoy the island’s tranquil atmosphere. Bougainville’s diverse landscapes and rich history make it a captivating destination for those seeking adventure and cultural immersion.
NEW GEORGIA
New Georgia is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant marine life, and rich cultural heritage. The island’s clear waters and colourful coral reefs offer excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities. Explore the island’s lush interior, visit local villages, and learn about its fascinating history. New Georgia’s natural beauty and cultural richness make it a perfect destination for those seeking adventure and cultural immersion.
VANGUNU ISLAND
Vangunu Island is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The island’s lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and vibrant coral reefs offer a diverse range of activities. Explore the island’s hidden coves, snorkel in its clear waters, or hike through its lush interior. Vangunu’s untouched beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect escape for those seeking solitude and natural splendour.
ACTIVITIES INCLUDED
Click the links above to review examples from previous sailing events across New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific Islands.
Itinery
You can fly directly into Nadi Airport on or before the Xst of July 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 midday on the Xnd of July 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 Xst of July, you may need to arrange accommodation ashore.
The goal is to explore the Yasawa Island group over the following 12 days, stopping daily at selected bays, attractions and islands en-route. We will aim to sail back into Vuda Point Marina on the Xth of July and you can stay onboard on arrival before departing out of Nadi Airport on the Xth of July.
The islands are steeped in mystery and legend. The Yasawan people live as they have done for centuries, keeping the spirit of the islands alive with their traditional and simple lifestyle. Blessed with dramatic volcanic peaks and sun-drenched white sand beaches, the Yasawa Islands is a haven for nature lovers and its a sailors dream for an adventurous ocean escapade. Further north, turquoise lagoons surround white sandy beaches. It includes the famous Blue Lagoon and as the name suggests, the water is the most inviting shades of blue you will ever see.
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 12 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.
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.
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Inclusions
Your crew package includes; all meals onboard, crew meals in Fiji and various stopover ports, accommodation onboard, your Ocean Sailing Expeditions crew shirt, Fiji Cruising Permits, 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.
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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