Sailing around Fiji is a major cruising aspiration many sailors. Located in the heart of the South Pacific, Fiji is an archipelago of over 330 islands, renowned for its clear turquoise waters, and warm, welcoming people. Sailing in Fiji by yacht offers a unique way to explore a diverse marine environment and experience some new cultures. Of course, food in Fiji is an important factor as well as like most boats I cruise on my stomach.
This guide provides useful information and advice on sailing around Fiji and you can also consult Noonsite and others for additional lived experiences and practical information on the rules and regulations for customs and immigration and also about yacht formalities. If you want to know where are the Fiji islands then a simple search online will show where they are relative to all the other South Pacific island nations.
The best time to visit Fiji and to sail to Fiji is during the dry season (May to October), when the southeast trade winds are consistent and the weather is generally cooler and drier. Cyclone season lasts from November to April, and while some cruisers remain in Fiji year-round, many leave during this time or find cyclone moorings in safe havens like Vuda Marina or Musket Cove.
Trade winds blow from the southeast at 10–20 knots, making for great sailing conditions between islands. You really do need to maintain a sharp lookout for reefs and coral heads, which are abundant and often unmarked, especially in more remote areas. Coral can grow quickly so good light and a bow lookout are essential when entering reefs.
Fiji offers a vast array of cruising grounds, some highlights include:
Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands: Just west of Nadi, these islands are popular for their crystal-clear lagoons, resort stops, and easy line-of-sight navigation.
Viti Levu’s Coral Coast: This southern coastline features surf breaks, villages, and anchorages. Be cautious of reefs and strong tidal currents.
Vanua Levu and Savusavu: A quieter cruising area with excellent provisioning in Savusavu. Copra Shed Marina in Savusavu is a popular base for sailors and offers great facilities.
Taveuni and the Lau Group: Taveuni, the "Garden Island," offers waterfalls and lush rainforest hiking. The Lau Group, once restricted, is now open to cruising. These islands offer pristine coral reefs, untouched villages, and true off-the-grid cruising. A special permit is required for the Lau Islands; apply well in advance through iTaukei Affairs.
Provisioning in Fiji is relatively easy in major ports like Lautoka, Nadi, and Suva, where you'll find large supermarkets such as RB Patel, NewWorld, and MH Superfresh. Imported goods are widely available but can be expensive.
For fresh produce, municipal markets are the best option:
Bring reusable bags, cash (FJD), when exploring markets. Vendors are friendly and open to bargaining. But please don’t be too aggressive or demanding when haggling as these folk have to support families as well.
Stock up on hard-to-find items like specialty cheeses, canned goods, and Western condiments before heading to remote islands.
Fijian cuisine is hearty and flavorful, influenced by indigenous, Indian, and Chinese traditions. Some must-try dishes include:
Lovo: A traditional feast cooked underground with hot stones. Expect pork, chicken, fish, and root vegetables with a smoky flavor.
Kokoda; Raw fish marinated in lemon juice and mixed with coconut cream, onions, tomatoes, and chilies. Fiji’s version of ceviche.
Rourou; Taro leaves cooked in coconut milk, often served as a side dish.
Fijian Curries; Due to the large Indo-Fijian population, expect delicious vegetable, chicken, and seafood curries served with rice or roti. Being a curry fanatic this is curry heaven.
You can buy ingredients for most local dishes in the markets. Fresh fish like mahi-mahi, wahoo, tuna, and snapper are often caught or traded among cruisers. I really am addicted to Fijian fish curries!
Fijians are known for their hospitality and friendliness, but it's important to be respectful, especially in rural villages.
Sevusevu Ceremony: When visiting a village, it is customary to present yaqona (kava root) to the chief in a sevusevu ceremony. You can buy yaqona at markets. Dress modestly and ask permission before anchoring near villages.
Dress Code: In villages, wear sulus (sarongs) and cover shoulders. Swimwear is acceptable on beaches and resorts but not in towns or villages.
Sunday Observance: Many villages observe the Sabbath strictly; avoid noisy activities or visiting villages unless invited.
Marinas: Popular marinas include Port Denarau, Vuda Marina, Musket Cove, Savusavu’s Copra Shed, and Royal Suva Yacht Club. Services generally include haul-out facilities, chandlery, repairs, and cyclone-rated moorings. Musket Cove is a cruising yacht haven with moorings, fuel, showers, laundry, a cruisers' bar and BBQ area.
Communications: Vodafone and Digicel offer generally reliable 4G coverage in populated areas. SIM cards are cheap and widely available. VHF Channel 16 is monitored, with local cruiser nets in popular anchorages and some also have WhatsApp groups. Starlink has been transformational on Fiji and Telecom Fiji and Lightspeed Fiji are official Starlink partners, offering kits and support for setup and maintenance. Users report solid performance for streaming, video conferencing, and cloud access even in isolated villages and outer islands
Navigation Information: Use updated electronic charts and also reference cruising guides such as the online and free "Fiji Compendium" along with “Curly’s Fiji Cruising Notes”.
Before sailing to Fiji, ensure your yacht is prepared and that you meet all entry requirements.
Ports of Entry: The main ports of entry for yachts are:
Clearance Requirements: Upon arrival, yachts must fly the yellow Q flag and wait to be cleared by:
It’s important to notify authorities at least 48 hours in advance of arrival using the Fiji government’s ClevverMail or email communication, depending on your departure point. Fiji is strict about biosecurity, so declare all food items on board, and be prepared for inspections. Sailing around Fiji is well worth the experience. Enjoy the trip.