Fiji Islands Yachting

The Official Guide to Sailing and Cruising in the Fiji Islands

Contents

Gruising GuideGruising Guide Overview ...........................3Northern Region ..........................................5Western Region ............................................6Central Region..............................................8Southern Region ..........................................10Eastern Region .............................................11

Super YachtsSuper yacht information..............................12

Racing - Current EventsCoffs harbour to Suva ..................................14Auckland to Denarau...................................15President’s Cup ............................................15Musket Cove to Port Vila ............................16

Racing - Previous EventsAuckland to Suva .........................................17Auckland to Lautoka ...................................18Sydney to Suva .............................................18Windsurfer Worlds.......................................18Hobie 16 Worlds...........................................1818 Footer Worlds ..........................................18

Charters & CruisesYacht & Powerboat Chartering ...................19Island Cruises ...............................................20

Arrival InformationFormalities....................................................21Health/Practique ..........................................22Customs.........................................................22Immigration..................................................24Quarantine ....................................................25Permits ..........................................................25Regulations ...................................................25International Travel .....................................26Domestic Travel ...........................................26Visas...............................................................26Travellers Health ..........................................27Sevusevu........................................................27

NavigationTides ..............................................................27Beacons & Lights .........................................27Radio .............................................................28Weather .........................................................28Books & Publications ..................................30Fiji Chart Agents..........................................30Fiji Charts .....................................................31British Admiralty Charts.............................31

FacilitiesYacht Clubs & Marinas................................33Products & Services Directory....................36

Fiji Yachting - The Official Guide to Sailing and Cruising in the Fiji Islands

OverviewWith its many scenic islands, Fiji is one of the most distinctive and beautiful areas in the world. Fiji is blessed with a mild climate, abundant sea life, tropical waters and excellent sailing conditions. The blue sky and crystal clear waters of Fiji are warmed year-round by a gentle sun. Add to this the numerous fascinating tours, modern facilities and locals known for their humour and hospitality and it is easy to see why Fiji is such a popular cruising destination.

Cruising Guide - Overview

Throughout the ages mariners have been captivated by the lure of Fiji's tranquil isles and warm sea. A sailor could happily spend a lifetime exploring Fiji's 330 islands and 200,000 miles of ocean. Whether you want to be a part of it all, or get away from it all, you can do just that in Fiji. Use this Cruising Guide to help you plan your itinerary through Fiji's paradise.

Northern Region - A remote, unspoiled, natural eden, Fiji’s North is a laid-back place where you can't help but be completely relaxed. Is it any wonder the people here are so incredibly friendly?

Western Region - Fiji's playground, the West is the most popular cruising area. The majority of Fiji's resort hotels are situated among these islands, each offering a wide range of watersports and activities. This area is famous for fun and sun -- all day, every day.

Central Region - In the heart of the Fiji Islands you can sail in waters surrounding the historic island home of Fiji's most famous ruler, Cakobau. You can wander past the charming wooden shops of Levuka, Fiji's first European capital. Need to reprovision or just want to enjoy great nightlife? You'll find many choices in the modern capital city of Suva.

Southern Region - A favourite area of snorkellers and divers, the Southern Region encompasses Beqa Lagoon and the Astrolabe Reef. Here is an undersea paradise with Fiji's famous giant sea fans and delicate soft corals in an array of colours. Keep a look out for sea turtles and dolphins.

Eastern Region - Regarded by local and world class sailors as one of Fiji's finest cruising grounds, the Eastern Region is a secluded paradise with private coves and sheltered bays.

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The Captain’s Log by Captain Carol Dunlop

Highly recommended:A Yachtsman's Fiji, by Michael Calder, is the definitive guide to cruising Fiji's waters.

Sailing in Fiji can be absolutely fantastic. You'll enjoy the warm weather, clear waters and the hospitality of the local people - especially in the outlying areas. May through to October, the climate is cooler and the predominating east to south-east trade winds usually prevail. Around the south-west coast of Viti Levu, Beqa channel, the north-east tip of Viti Levu and out in the eastern Lau group you can expect winds of 20-25 knots in the afternoons. If you sail from Suva to Lautoka expect to fly down the coast in a day, but it might take you four days to get back!

Just a few handy hints about sailing in Fiji. If you wander off the beaten track keep a good look out for those isolated "bommies" (coral heads) which are often not charted or may be charted incorrectly. Sail in good light, with those trusty Polaroid's on. Beware of GPS positions on all the old charts unless a notation on the charts says that you can plot directly or gives you a correction. In some cases, for instance, the eastern side of Viti Levu can be up to three quarters of a mile out! We get a lot of SNAGs here (Satellite Navigators Assisted Groundings). Don't rely on beacons and lights, some may be missing, due to boisterous cyclones in the past.

It's hard to find the following in the outer islands. Here's a checklist on leaving port: Medical supplies- including antibiotics, hydrogen peroxide for those coral cuts, suntan lotion Fresh vegetables Permit or clearance Any alcohol or tobacco supplies Plenty of water!

Most essential - yaqona (either in 1/2 kg root form or in 1/2 kg packets already pounded). This is used for a "sevusevu" in all areas where a village is close by. A sevusevu is the presentation of yaqona to the chief of the village - a Fijian custom which is the first thing you do, before you swim, snorkel, go ashore, fish etc. By doing this you are asking permission to use their land, beaches and to enter their village and homes. How would you like some guy knocking on your door and asking if he can look inside your home.

If you make your sevusevu in the right way it will open the door to an interesting and enjoyable stay in that village and all sorts of amazing things can happen!

Take off your sunglasses and caps, and your shoes when entering a bure or sitting on a mat. Ladies, please - cover your shoulders and thighs (wrap a sulu around your shorts). Ask permission before taking photos. Do not offer alcohol, but keep in mind that kids love lollies,

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magazines, books, crayons and volleyballs.

A good time to visit is usually 4-5pm in the afternoon. The men are back from the plantations, the children are out of school and most daily chores are done. Sunday is definitely tabu and visiting villages is not recommended on this day.

Northern RegionThe Northern Region includes Vanua Levu and Taveuni, Fiji's second and third largest islands, respectively. It also includes Kioa, Rabi, Matagi, Qamea and a few smaller isles -- each with its own unique beauty and intrigue.

It is the place to witness nature at her best. The islands of the North are remote, and unspoiled. Full of diversity, Fiji's Northern Region is ecologically rich, with possibilities of natural treasures yet undiscovered. Here, thick rainforest hide colourful parrots and rare flowers and waterfalls cascade straight into the sea.

This is also a great destination to go to unwind and slowdown. The people here are incredibly friendly, taking life in a leisurely stride.

The Captain’s Log by Captain Carol Dunlop

If you have departed Viti Levu by Nananu Pass you have a windward passage to Savusavu. You can break it by anchoring on the Vanua Levu coast at Nabawalu, Solevu Village or even by Vuya Passage behind the reef. Savusavu is a port of entry and has a small marina and a yacht club situated in the Copra Shed. Water is available both on the main shipping wharf at the entrance to the creek or at the Copra Shed. There are a number of flights each day both to Suva and Nadi. Many treks, visits to copra plantations, or waterfalls are available and diving can be arranged at the Copra Shed or from the resorts along the southern coast of Vanua Levu.

From Savusavu, you could tack up the southern coast of Vanua Levu to the island of Taveuni. Savusavu to Taveuni is a days run -- but small vessels can stop in Fawn Harbour, with local knowledge. East Vanua Levu has superb anchorages. There are good anchorages in Viani Bay and Nagaigai. Close by is the island of Kioa settled by people from Tuvalu who weave the most beautiful baskets and mats. Ask to see a member of the committee.

North of Kioa is Rabi, settled by people from Kiribati. The Rabi dancers are famous and so is the toddy that hangs from the coconut trees! Nuku is the main township to ask permission to cruise. To the east of Rabi are the Ringgold Isles, Cobia being a crater which is almost landlocked except over the reef with a small dinghy. See the Turaga ni Koro on Yanuca Island

Charts F1, 378, 416, 440

Port of EntrySavusavu

Yacht Club & MarinaCopra Shed

AirportsSavusavuMatei (Taveuni)Laucala

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before you sightsee.

Sailing southwards towards Taveuni you have Matagi, Qamea and Laucala Islands -- lovely anchorages. Matagi has a resort on the south side. Laucala has a resort on the north side. Qamea has a very good hurricane anchorage at Nivivi Bay on the Western side; there is a very traditional thatched roofed village to visit and make sevusevu.

Taveuni is a great diving area but do get local guides. It sports the famous White Wall and Rainbow Reef.

On the eastern end of Taveuni we have the Bouma Waterfalls and the Lavena National Park which are well worth a visit and locals will guide you to the many treks you can make in the lush tropical bush. You will see why Taveuni is called the “Garden Island of Fiji.”

Western Region

The western side of Viti Levu and the islands of the Yasawa and Mamanuca Groups make up Fiji's Western Region.

The West is Fiji's most popular cruising area. There are miles of beaches and countless harbours.

The fishing here is unforgettable. The day's catch could include tuna, mahimahi (dolphin fish), marlin, or even sailfish. If diving or snorkelling is more your style, you'll discover a multitude of amazing coral reefs. Parasailing, windsurfing, hobie cat sailing, surfing, and jet skiing are also available for those "young at heart."

While basking in the warm, sunny weather you'll also enjoy the easygoing Fijian hospitality. Several marinas and many of Fiji's resort hotels are located in the West, making this a great gathering place to meet friends, old and new.

The Captain’s Log by Captain Carol Dunlop

This area is the hub of tourism in Fiji and has wonderful daylight cruising in relatively protected waters, with many anchorages available in short hops. A big plus is the weather which is usually fine with hardly any overcast rainy days. Most of the resorts in the Mamanucas welcome yachtsmen, especially Musket Cove which has a well stocked shop for those who forgot the suntan cream, corned beef, lettuce and tomatoes.

Michael Calder's book "A Yachtsman's Fiji" is an excellent publication for piloting so I will just point out some anchorages not frequented so often by the resident cruise companies like Blue Lagoon and Captain Cook Cruises. After full tourist saturation in Plantation Resort, Musket Cove Resort, and Castaway Island Resort hop up to Vanua Levu Island in the North

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Mamanucas for a spell of peace and quiet. I believe there is a notice now to leave your sevusevu on the beach. Although a little rolly in light airs, there is great snorkelling close by. Both sides of the "neck" between Waya and Wayasewa are good anchorages depending on the wind direction, but a cruise boat might call in at least twice a week.

Sailing north to Naviti, in between Narara Island and Nanuya Balavu Island or east about Naviti into Somosomo Bay, are many bays in which to escape all. The anchorages are excellent in Somosomo or Vunayawa or Gunu Bay. Don't anchor close to the ledge on Vomo reef as a large cruise vessel will attempt to squash you as she picks it up! The village at Somosomo is lovely.

Another good anchorage is just south of Koro Kulu Point on the western side and Soso Bay on the southern side.

If the winds perk up all vessels usually head for Nanuya Lailai just off Matacawa Levu and Tavewa, but you can get away from them all as there is plenty of space. Blue Lagoon Cruises occupy the southern half of Nanuya Lailai so keep clear as they often arrive at 7:30 pm. There are a couple of backpacker resorts on Tavewa which run dive trips operated by Westside Water Sports. So ask Lance Miller for more info. Lots of lovely snorkelling around the area.

Moving north again past Nacula is Sawa-i-Lau, the home of the famous caves. Sailing out Kubo Pass and steaming east about is easy and clear but rough in boisterous southeast trades. Passing east of Tavewa, you will see a beacon. On Mataniwai Reef and once clear of Cokonibau Reef it's safe to proceed to Yasawa Island and then in Egusuikuro Pass to Sawa-i-Lau. A visit to the caves is worthwhile and necessitates a guide. Do make a sevusevu to Nabukeru village first. They may charge you $3 a head but you really need to hire a guide to find the inside caves. Hold your breath and nose, close your eyes and let friendly hands pull you through the tunnel. Piece of cake, honest!

Yasawa Island, the most northern island in the group, is renowned for its beautiful white beaches. Choose any one on the western side and nudge yourself in around the coral. The waters are turquoise and you will fry in the sun!

If you feel adventurous and the weather is good, round Yawini Island and anchor near Vatuliwa Reef or Namulo Bay. It is only a short spit to the islets north, for a day trip of fishing and diving. Make your sevusevu to the village at Yasawairara first.

If you want to keep your gin and tonic on the table, sail west about in southeast trades. This track has more navigation worries, but these are no problem in good light. East about is easier, not so many reefs but of course more boisterous sailing generally and few good anchorages.

Charts F5 and Pickmere's Charts of Yasawas

Port of EntryLautoka

Yacht Clubs & MarinasMusket CovePort DenarauVuda Point Marina

AirportsNadiMalolo LailaiYasawa Island

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Further afield? Away from the tourist track. If you have a good engine, consider motoring inside all the reefs from Lautoka around the north of Viti Levu. Although the head winds funnel around the island, the scenery is beautiful and the seas can only pick up to a short chop. There are lots of places to stop with only fisherman as neighbours. Maybe take a trip out of Yavena Pass to Yadua Island to the home of the famous lizard. See Peter in the village when you make your sevusevu.

Central Region

The Central Region is the heart of the Fiji Islands. It is the centre of Government, of commerce, and of Fiji's recorded history.

It encompasses the Northern and Eastern shores of Viti Levu and the Lomaiviti Group. The Lomaiviti Group includes the islands of Ovalau, Koro, Gau, Nairai, Makogai, Wakaya, Batiki and the surrounding smaller islands.

Here also, is Bau Waters and the historic island home of Cakobau, the 19th century self-claimed king of Fiji. As Fiji's most powerful ruler, he owned hundreds of giant double-hulled war canoes capable of sailing at incredible speeds.

Levuka, on the island of Ovalau, is full of interest. Fiji's first capital, the town still has some lovely old colonial buildings.

The modern capital city of Suva is the perfect place to reprovision and rehydrate. Large shopping complexes and marketplaces provide everything a yachtie desires. There are also plenty of restaurants and night-clubs.

The Captain's Log by Captain Carol Dunlop

To get from Lautoka to Eastern Viti Levu it is best to go via North Viti Levu. Unless you want to beat your brains out tacking up the Beqa Channel against the prevailing East Southeast trade winds (enhanced by the configuration of the coastline to often 30 knots) or you have a powerful engine and a larger vessel, then dawdle around the northern coast of Viti Levu “inside the reefs”.

It is well beaconed and it is the gateway to sailing to Vanua Levu, Taveuni, and Lau or around Viti Levu and to the Lomaiviti Group.

From Lautoka around Northern Viti Levu is usually a motor but the channels are deep and well beaconed. Vatia Lailai is a nice spot to stop and usually you can buy crabs on the beach. The scenery around the north side is spectacular and very different from the lush tropical bush on the eastern side. On the northeast tip of Viti Levu we have 3 resorts and usually plenty of wind. However, by Nananu-i-Ra Island or Nananu-i-Cake Island you can find calm

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anchorages. At this point you can sail past Ellington Wharf to the eastern side of Viti Levu or out through Nananu Pass to Vanua Levu and the North.

The route is well beaconed and follows the coast until just south of Tanavuse Point. You can head northeast out of the reefs and thence to Naigani Island. There is a lovely beach and nice snorkelling and a resort on the east side of the island. Not far away is the island of Makogai, once a leper colony many years ago, but now an agricultural research station. Take your sevusevu ashore and see the giant clams (vasua), the baby turtles and the hairless sheep. Some good anchorages are found if the weather is rough. Wakaya, just to the south, is a beautiful private island with fabulous beaches. If you call Rob or Linda Miller, the managers, they may be able to fit you in for a sumptuous lunch or dinner. They have a private plane which can be chartered to fly you to Suva or Nadi. You'll experience fantastic diving with hammerheads and manta rays. We are now well into the Lomaiviti Group which includes Koro, Makogai, Wakaya, Nairai, Batiki and Gau.

Further to the southeast a short sail away is Gau Island another famous dive location. The northwest entrance at Wakaciva takes you over a few bommies (coral heads) but the least depth is 15’ at low water. Anchor in Herald Bay and make sevusevu to Ratu Marika (who is the High Chief of Gau) and ask his permission to dive and to visit. There are hot springs at Waikama Village which is situated in a deep protected bay.

Just southwest of Wakaya is Ovalau with the old capital of Fiji at Levuka.The township remains how it was many years ago. It is charming. A couple of hotels which look like something out of Somerset Maugham and a number of “clubs” where you can drink a beer with the locals. Levuka is a Port of Entry, has a wharf and water for vessels. There is a lot of history attached to the island and the local museum is worth a visit.

From Ovalau you can run inside the reefs from Motoriki Island past Cagilai Island, Leluvia Island, (two backpacker resorts) down to Toberua Island (listed as on of the top ten resorts in the world by Harpers). Give Mike Dennis a call if you wish to have dinner on the island. Toberua Pass (chart F8) has a shallow patch of 10’ as you depart the island but otherwise can accommodate reasonable size vessels.

The Suva harbour is protected from the prevailing easterly wind, while the reefs extending nearly right across the southern part of the harbour render it invariably smooth. The Royal Suva Yacht Club is a great social meeting place for visiting and local yachting enthusiasts.

Many boats also anchor in the nearby Bay of Islands, commonly called Tradewinds Bay.

Charts 389, 387, 379, 281East Viti Levu488, 379, 744

Ports of EntrySuva and Levuka

Yacht Clubs & MarinasRoyal Suva Yacht ClubRaffles Tradewinds

AirportsNausori (Suva)OvalauKoroWakaya (private)

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There are several day cruises that could be made from Suva. Nukulau Island is easily reached via either the outer channel or outside the main reef. If the tradewinds are blowing, you can motor or sail up the inside route and have a great ride home, outside the reef in the evening. Namuka Harbour, some 5 nm westwards of Suva entrance, is a closer alternative. Surrounded by high hills, this harbour offers good fishing, swimming and snorkelling as well as the bonus of a brisk sail back to Suva.

Southern Region

This areas covers the southern coast of Viti Levu, the islands of Vatulele, Yanuca, and Nanuku. It also includes Beqa, Kadavu, and the Great Astrolabe Reef.

The Southern Region is a diver's paradise. There are numerous coral reefs with an endless parade of tropical fish displaying an array of brilliant colours.

Whether you are diving into the deep blue along spectacular undersea walls where giant sea fans and soft corals live, or snorkelling above the pristine reef, your eyes will be bedazzled by the colours and diversity of sealife.

The Captain's Logby Captain Carol Dunlop

An area well worth exploring is Kadavu and Beqa, south of Viti Levu. Kadavu and Beqa are renowned for their world class diving locations. Sail from Suva to Kadavu, then Beqa as the prevailing winds are from the east/southeast. It is an on-the-wind sail for just a few hours from Suva to Usborne Passage into the Great Astrolabe Reef.

Make sevusevu at the most northern island Dravuni first! Then you have a wealth of small deserted islands with white sand beaches. Next go to Yaukuve, Namara, and then to Ono, where once again you should make sevusevu in Varabia village, the chief being a woman!

Just a way south, Kavala Bay is the hurricane anchorage and sports a shop which sells all basics, plus premix. You can travel down inside the reefs westwards along the southern coast as far as Kadavu Village, a very small narrow pass near the light southwest of Naigoro Pass may put you off but I have been through with a 90 ft. sailing vessel with a 6.6 ft. draft -- no problem it is very deep. Galoa Harbour provides another excellent hurricane anchorage further west along the southern coast. There are a few dive resorts on the main Kadavu Island and one on Ono. It is a good idea to hire their guides to show you the good dive spots.

Even if it is raining in Suva you are sure to find sunshine in Kadavu! Lots of anchorages, white sand beaches and diving.

Charts BA 745, 1682, 746F9, F10, F11, BA 745

AirportsKadavuVatulele

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The airport is close to Vunisea where there is a Government station. From Kadavu it is a good day sail across to Beqa Island.

Frigate Pass is deep and wide and is close to Yanuca Island. Beqa Lagoon is world renowned for it is wonderful soft corals and great diving spots. A few operations use Yanuca as a lunch stop as most of the prime dive sites are just west of Yanuca.

Bird Island, about 2’ north of Yanuca, is a deserted sand cay. Rumour has it that someone found a pristine Golden Cowrie there recently! Potter eastwards across the lagoon in good light to Stuart Island, Vaga Bay, (Marlin Bay Dive Resort just to the north of this) and then south about to Malumu Bay for a quiet night. Take the small dinghy at high tide into the channels in the mangroves! A quick swim at Storm Island before a 17’ sail back to Suva.

Sailing from the Port of Suva to the western side of the main island of Viti Levu is usually an easy run with the prevailing winds east/southeast right behind you. You can elect to run from Suva to say the Fijian Hotel in one day or make a cruise out of stopping enroute at Beqa Island, Yanuca Island, Somosomo Bay, Cuvu Harbour (Fijian Hotel), Likuri Harbour, Momi Bay.

Vatulele Island is beautiful, but the passages can be difficult and a local pilot would be necessary for any vessel with a draft of 6 ft. or more.

Eastern Region At the eastern limits of Fiji is the Lau Group, renowned as one of Fiji's finest cruising grounds.

Captain Cook, visiting Vatoa in 1774, was the first European navigator to explore the Lau Group of islands, and only the second European to pass through Fiji waters. The Eastern Region is uncrowded and still largely undiscovered. You can find your own private cove and do your own exploring.

Traditionally, it was the master craftsmen from the islands of Lakeba and Fulaga who built Fiji’s famed double-hulled war canoes, able to beat to windward and capable of carrying hundreds of men.

The Captain's Logby Captain Carol Dunlop

The Lau Group is the most remote scattering of islands in Fiji. There is virtually no tourism here and vessels are required to apply for a permit to visit from the President’s office. Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara is the Tui Nayau (Paramount Chief) of Lau and therefore it is his permission that you should seek.

During the winter months it is often boisterous sailing between the islands with the prevailing East/Southeast tradewinds building up some rough seas. There are few large scale charts,

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therefore it is a good idea to take a pilot who is familiar with the area as there are a wealth of idyllic anchorages just not shown on the charts. Also it is beneficial to have someone along who knows the protocol in making the correct approaches to the Turaga ni Koro (Village Headman) in the various villages.

We have deserted sand keys where the Green Turtles lay their eggs, fabulous white beaches on Wailagilala, amazing rock formations in the Vanuabalavu area, copra plantations to visit, landlocked harbours and caves to explore, and great diving. Bird life is varied and the diving can be breathtaking with large pelagic to view on every dive. Allow a few weeks to soak up the peace and tranquility between both Northern and Southern Lau.

Northern Lau is reasonably accessible by sailing from Taveuni to Wailagilala, the most remote island in Northern Lau. The waters are a sparkling turquoise and you can creep right into the beach in the lee by the light house, about 13-15' of water right through. The beaches are stunning and there is great fishing in the pass and along the reef. The diving around the passage is beautiful with a lot of large pelagic to keep the adrenaline boiling.

A little to the southeast of Wailagilala, is Duff Reef, Kibobo islets, Malima islets and finally the lovely Vanuabalavu Lagoon, where there are at least 3 weeks cruising with many superb anchorages.

If you find yourself east of the lagoon called Reid Haven, it is possible to anchor inside of it. A deep anchorage is off the rocky islets. It has a very good holding. The islets are covered with nests of sea snakes (large ones!) for anyone interested.

There are supplies to be found at Lomaloma in Vanuabalavu and Lakeba. Water can be organised at Lakeba for small vessels, with local knowledge.

For an away from it all cruise, it really is the most fabulous area.

Super Yachts

Fiji is on the way to the Americas CupThe final challenge of the Americas Cup will take place in New Zealand in the year 2000. Setting out from ports around the world, yachtsmen will be heading to the South Pacific to take part in all the action. Whether you will be flying along on the rails of one of the most innovative crafts or cruising leisurely aboard a luxuriously appointed Super Yacht, as you set your course for Auckland be sure to include a stop in Fiji. You may find that Fiji has so much to offer, you will not want to leave.

Charts 416, 440, 441, 7510

AirportsVanuabulavuCiciaLakeba

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Fiji is a natural waypointThe Fiji Islands lies between 15° and 22° South latitude and 174° East and 177° West longitude, straddling the 180th meridian. Positioned between the islands nations of Polynesia and Melanesia, Australia and New Zealand, Fiji is an ideal base from which to discover the rest of the Southwest Pacific. Long ago, tales of Fiji's beauty were spread by sailors. Racing boats and round the world cruising yachts following the tradewinds spend weeks, months, even years exploring secluded coves tucked away among Fiji's 300 plus islands.

Fiji has some of the best sailing anywhereFor over 3000 years Fiji has been home to seafaring people using sail to ply their watery trade routes. Centuries ago, European mariners witnessed in awe the skilful ability of Fijian seaman sailing giant doubled-hulled war canoes. For today’s modern sailor, Fiji is a yachting centre in the South Pacific. Fiji offers all the facilities and entertainment that owners and crew could possibly want.

Activities and ExcursionsFiji is an excellent sailing area for Super YachtsFiji offers a wide variety of islands, activities and entertainment. So whether you want to be a part of it all, or get away from it all, Fiji is a perfect destination.

Fiji has many superb golf courses and tennis courts within easy access to visiting yachtsmen and women. Private tours via helicopter, hot-air balloon, day cruiser or luxury van may be arranged.

Fine dining may be enjoyed in the cities or at any of the numerous 5-star resorts located throughout the islands.

Excellent shopping and entertainment, with almost everything the discerning visitor would wish, is available in Nadi, Lautoka and the capital city of Suva.

Yacht Agents and PilotsTo discover some of Fiji’s secret treasure spots, take on one of the knowledgeable and professional local captains to personally guide you through the fascinating group of islands.

Companies such as Yacht Help provide full service to visiting luxury yachts, including arranging all custom and immigration clearances, provisioning, and crew placement. Fiji's shipyards offer top-notch maintenance and repair for both motor and sail.

Area Phone Fax EmailCarl Bay Suva 361 382 362 930

998 821

Captain Carol Dunlop Suva 362 356 361 256 dunlop@is.com.fj361 988

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Latitude South Suva/Nadi722 835 998 825  latitudesouth @is.com.fj

Yacht Help Lautoka 688 969 688 814 yachthelp@is.com.fj

MarinasMost of the local marinas have clubhouses, restaurants and bars, with shops, hotels, swimming pools and night-clubs nearby. All offer moorings, while Port Denarau and Raffles Tradewinds can facilitate deep hulled vessels.

Area Phone Fax Email Copra Shed Savusavu 850 457 850 344 coprashed@is.com.fjMarina & Yacht Club

Musket Cove Malolo 662 215 662 633 musketcovefiji@is.com.fjMarina & Yacht Club Lailai Is.

Port Denarau Nadi 750 600 750 700 denarau4fiji @is.com.fjMarina & Yacht Club

Raffles Tradewinds Suva 362 450 362 455 tradewindsresv @is.com.fjHotel & Marina

Royal Suva Yacht Club Suva 312 921 304 433 rsyc@is.com.fj

Vuda Point Marina Lautoka 668 214 668 215 

Racing

With 97% of Fiji being sea, ocean sailing and racing in Fiji is a natural sport here. Sailors from around the world agree that racing in Fiji is fantastic. Fiji traditionally has spectacular sailing weather. Come experience the beauty of Fiji while enjoying good competition and good camaraderie.

The Fiji Yachting Association, established in 1978, is affiliated with the International Sailing Federation, the Fiji Amateur Sport Association and the National Olympic Committee. The Association's members include Fiji's yacht clubs, and it's hobie cat racing, windsurfing and optimist dinghy associations. The FYA has sent teams to the Olympics and the South Pacific Games since 1979, and hosted the 1986 Hobie 16 Worlds and the 1994 Windsurfer One Design Worlds.

Coffs Harbour - Suva Yacht RaceOrganised by the Royal Suva Yacht Club and Coffs Harbour International Marina.

For Ocean Racers participation in this race will then allow you to take part in the President's Cup. For Cruising Boats who do not wish to do any further serious racing, a series of Cruising events will be available. Or simply relax and enjoy the hospitality of the Fiji Islands

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Upcoming Race Date - 15th May, 1999

ContactRob Mundle Promotions24 Clarke Street

Crows Nest, NSW, 2065 AustraliaTel +61 2 9901 4311Fax +61 2 9901 4233Email rmundle@ozemail.com.au

Winners Coffs Harbour - Suva  1999 Results to be posted 

Auckland - Denarau ClassicHosted by the Denarau Yacht Club in conjunction with the Royal Akarana Yacht Club and continues the tradition of the Auckland to Fiji yacht races. The Auckland - Denarau Classic was first run in 1997 and is held every two years, timed so that participants can also take part in Fiji's Presidents' Cup Race Series.

The Royal Akarana Yacht Club is offering a $10,000 cash prize for the first race yacht to cross the Denarau finish line within 4 days of the start time. Charles St. Clair Brown is also offering $10,000 to the first yacht that can beat previous winner Anteaus' record.

The Denarau Marina is located on Nadi's Denarau Island, home of the Sheraton Royal Denarau and Sheraton Fiji resorts.

Upcoming Race Date - 29 May, 1999

ContactSailing AdministratorRoyal Akarana Yacht ClubPO Box 42 004 Orakei, Auckland, NZTel +64 9 524 9945Fax +64 9 520 1380Email rayc@rayc.org.nz

Winners Auckland - Denarau Classic 1999 Results to be posted 1997 Anteaus, Charles St. Clair Brown

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President's Cup International Race SeriesThe race's international flavour makes it something of an adventure, not to mention a big travelling party. It is hosted by the Port Denarau Yacht Club in co-ordination with the Royal Akarana Yacht Cub, the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, and the Fiji Yachting Association.

1997 saw the inaugural running of this race, with nearly 50 boats competing for the handcrafted trophy resembling a Fijian "drua", a double-hulled sailing canoe. This is a biennial event. The Denarau Race week is held during the intervening years.

Upcoming Race Date 7 June to 12 June, 1999

ContactDenarau Yacht Clubc/o Tabua Investments LimitedPO Box 9347, Nadi AirportTel (679) 750 251Fax (679) 750 182Email denarau4fiji@is.com.fj

Winners-President's Cup1999 Results to be posted

Denarau Race Week - June 2000Events include: Hobie Cat Regatta; Cocktail Party; Ladies-Dine-Round (not to be missed, share the chefs cooking secrets); Car Rally; Regatta Prize giving on a Mystery Island; Search & Destroy to Mana Island - Pirate Dinner.

Musket Cove - Port Vila RegattaThis is an annual event topping off the Fiji Regatta Week. From an auspicious start, the popularity of the event and its traditions have grown to legendary proportions. Excitement and hoopla set this race apart. Don't miss all the fun. Just a few of the rules:

Fishing is compulsory, with a prize for the largest fish.Line honours yacht will be automatically disqualified unless it can be proven that blatant cheatingoccurred.Penalties will be incurred on yachts with matching oilskins, sails less than 4 years old, trouble-free refrigeration system.Handicap allowance given to yachts with goose barnacles exceeding 2" in length, home-madesextants, logs or outboards, hand-drawn or photostatted charts or charts more than 15 years old.

Competitors are bound by the rules to keep overall placing in strictest confidence. The CoconutCup is awarded on a lottery basis.

Upcoming Race Date - 11 September, 1999

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ContactMusket Cove Yacht ClubMalolo Lailai IslandPrivate Mail Bag, NAP 0352, Nadi AirportTel (679) 662 215Fax (679) 662 633Email musketcovefiji@is.com.fjFiji

Regatta Week3 September to 11 September, 1999

The wild and wacky events include: Pirates Day Beachcomber Race; Hobie Cat Challenge;Picnic Race to Castaway Island; Malolo Lailai Olympics; 12-mile Round Malolo Race; BestDressed Yacht & Live Figurehead Contests; start of the Musket Cove to Port Vila Race.

Previous International Racing Events

Auckland - Suva Yacht RaceRun by the Royal Akarana Yacht Club in conjunction with the Royal Suva Yacht Club. Thisevent was first raced in appalling conditions during May of 1956 when 13 boats challengedthe 1140 nautical miles of Ocean between New Zealand and Fiji. It became a biennial eventcomplementing the Sydney - Suva race.

Winners Auckland-Suva Yacht Race 1995 Overall Winner, Kiwi; Line Honours, Antaeus

(4 days, 19 hours, 31 min)1993 Overall Winner, Neutrino; Line Honours, Ice Fire

(7 days, 22 hours, 21 min)1991 Overall Winner, Higher Ground, Murray Ross; Line Honours, Longfellow

(5 days, 16 hours, 58 min)1989 Overall Winner, Liberte Express, Y Kawamura; Line Honours, Future Shock, Ian Margan

(4 days, 14 hours, 42 min)1987 Overall Winner, Dictator, B Peterson; Line Honours, Satellite Spy, Murray Ross

(5 days, 19 hours, 23 min)1985 Overall Winner, Urban Cowboy, John Dacey; Line Honours, Urban Cowboy, John Dacey

(5 days, 8 hours, 53 minutes)1983 Overall Winner, Cavell, Doug McKee; Line Honours, Urban Cowboy, Jack Balemi

(7 days, 18 hours, 4 min)1981 Overall Winner, Tinker, B Ussher; Line Honours, Ta'Aroa, Ian Macfarlane

(6 days, 17 hours, 50 min);Inaugural 2 man race Overall Winner, Kristen J, KB Dobbs & J Lott

1979 Overall Winner, Kishmul, Richard Tapper & Lester Smith; Line Honours, Anticipation,Don St. Clair-Brown(9 days, 8 hours, 32 min)

1977 Overall Winner, Country Boy, Clyde Colson; Line Honours, Anticipation, Don St. Clair-

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Brown (5 days, 23 hours, 40 min)

1973 Overall Winner, Whispers II, Geoff Stagg; Line Honours, Ta'Aroa, Doug Bremner(5 days, 12 hours, 52 min)

1969 Overall Winner, Castanet, Lin Carmichael; Line Honours, Kahurangi, Willie Wilson(7 days, 14 hours, 51 min)

1966 Overall Winner, Roulette, Fred Andrews; Line Honours, Fidelis, Jim Davern (9 days, 12 hours, 50 min)

1956 Overall Winner, Wanderer, Tom Buchanan; Line Honours, Wanderer (11 days, 12 hours, 26 min)

Auckland - Lautoka Yacht RaceThe popularity of the Auckland - Suva race lead officials in 1977 to inaugurate an Aucklandto Lautoka race to accommodate all of the entries.

Winners Auckland-Lautoka Yacht RaceIOR Division1977 Overall Winner,  

Sydney - Suva Yacht RaceA biennial race conducted by Middle Harbour Yacht Club and hosted by the Royal Suva YachtClub, it was one of the most challenging long ocean races on the Australian racing calendar.1730 nautical miles eastward across the Southwest Pacific -- a demanding test of yachts andyachtsmen with seamanship of paramount importance for both racing and cruising competitors.

Winners Sydney-Suva Yacht RaceIOR Division 

1980 Overall Winner, Sweet Caroline, Marshall Phillips; Line Honours, Mary Muffin1978 Overall Winner, Ragamuffin, Syd Fischer; Line Honours, Anaconda II, Josko Grubic1976 Overall Winner, Vittoria, Lou Abrahams; Line Honours, Boomerang of Belmont, Albie

Burgin

1994-95 Windsurfer One Design World ChampionshipsWinners-Windsurfer One Design World Championships1994-1995 Overall Winner, Tony Philp

1986 Hobie Cat 16 World ChampionshipsStill regarded as the best ever venue of the Hobie Worlds, Fiji put on a great week of adrenaline-pumping races and crowd-pleasing evening events

Winners-Hobie Cat 16 World Championships1986 Overall Winner, Gary Metcalf

1952 18-Footer World ChampionshipWinners-18-Footer World Championships  1952 Overall Winner, Intrigue 

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Charters & Cruises

Yacht and Powerboat CharteringThe International Telephone Access Code for Fiji is (679)

Emotional RescueJoin NZ Americas Cup sailor - Graeme Woodroffe for the adventure of a lifetime. Cruise onthe high performance 56 ft. sloop, one of the South Pacific's fastest cruiser/racer. Hostsmaximum 8 guests, features finest shipboard accommodation, providing everything an islandadventurer needs for days of action, and all the comforts of home for nights of relaxation intropical splendour.

Gallivant17 m. Warwick 56 is racer designed with comfortable accommodation. Facilities includemaster cabin, ensuite bathroom, spacious main saloon, well equipped galley, outside diningin centre cockpit, snorkel gear, fishing lines, inflatable zodiac tender, deck BBQ, sleeps 8.

Hobo36 ft. ketch - maximum 6 adults. Join the hosts Patricia and Peter on their day cruises. Onboard facilities include bar service and snorkel gear. Sunset cruises also available.

La ViolanteBuilt in 1922 for French royalty. A luxury schooner with a superb touch of Europeancraftsmanship. 106 ft. splendour. 4 Crew included with maximum 6 guests. A personal treatfor sailing adventures.

LeaItaly built - 14 m. steel cutter, constructed to withstand high seas, maximum 6 guests in three doublecabins, spacious saloon, a functional galley, bathroom with shower and external shower, deliciouslocal cuisine and best Italian specialities.

Tropical JazzBareboat with a guide, the 43 ft. Beneteau sleeps 6 comfortably with all essential amenitiesand provisions. Tender service, swim ladder, fishing lines, snorkel gear, spacious main saloon.

For more information on the above vessels contact:

Fiji Yacht ChartersMusket Cove ResortPrivate Mail Bag, 0352, Nadi AirportTel 662 215Fax 662 633 musketcovefiji@is.com.fj

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Tau90’ Ketch, maximum 6 adults. 3 passenger cabins each having toilet & bathroom facilities.Crew of Certified Master, bosun, and cook. Snorkelling equipment and windsurfing on board.Dive master, scuba equipment and zodiac rigid inflatable dive tender also available.

Tradewinds MarinePO Box 3084, Lami, Fiji IslandsTel 361 453Fax 362 177tradewinds@is.com.fj

Island Cruises

The International Telephone Access Code for Fiji is (679)

Address Phone Fax EmailBay Cruises PO Box 9949, 722 696 720 288 baycruises@is.com.fj

Nadi Airport

Beachcomber Cruises PO Box 364, 661 500 664 496 beachcomber@is.com.fjLautoka

Blue Lagoon Cruises PO Box 130, 661 622 664 098 blc@is.com.fjLautoka

Bountiful Cruises PO Box 6796, 650 200 650 200Lautoka

Captain Cook Cruises PO Box 23, 701 823 702 045 captcookcrus@is.com.fjNadi

Daydream Cruises PO Box 9777, 723 314 790 441Nadi Airport

Fiji Aggressor PO Box 1470 70381-1470Morgan City, LA (800) 348 2628 (504) 384 0817USA (800) 344 5662 FijiInfo@pac-aggressor.com

Leeward Services, Musket Cove 722 488 790 378ResortMalolo Lailai Is.,Private Mail Bag,Nadi Airport

Nai'a Cruises PO Box 332, 450 382 450 566 naia@is.com.fjPacific Harbour

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Princess II PO Box 208, 850 195 850 430 hotspringshotel@is.com.fjSavusavu

Robinson Crusoe Cruises PO Box 2580, 700 026 700 010Nadi

Sere-ni-Wai PO Box 3256, 361 171 361 137 sere@is.com.fj (divecruises) Fiji Lami

South Seas Cruises Ltd PO Box 718, 750 500 750 501 southsea@is.com.fjNadi

Transtar Charters PO Box 370, 850 674 850 674Savusavu

Whales Tale Oceanic PO Box 9625, 722 455 720 134Schooner Company Nadi Airport

Arrival Info

Clearance formalities for yachts arriving and departing FijiOn reaching Fijian waters, you must first call at a port of entry where Health/Practique,Customs, Immigration and Quarantine formalities must be completed. Fiji has four Ports ofEntry and departure: Suva, Lautoka, Savusavu and Levuka.

Working hours of clearance are from Mon to Thurs 0800-1300h, 1400-1630; Fri 0830-1300,1400-1600h. Overtime charges may be enforced outside of these hours.

It is the vessel master's responsibility to ensure that all people on board are in possession ofvalid travel documents. Documents required prior to arrival are:

Certificate of Clearance from your previous port/country (even if it is your home port)Crew lists with details of passport numbers, nationality, age, position on vessel. (12 or morecopies of this made prior to travel is helpful).Valid passports for all personnel.

Once cleared into Fiji, if you intend to sail to another clearance port (either directly or viathe other islands), you must clear out with Customs from the Port of Entry you are presentlyin.

If your vessel is in excess of 100 tons you should contact a yachting agent prior to arrival.There are many differences in clearance formalities for vessels over 100 tons which would beworthwhile knowing.

For yachts intending to visit any of the outer islands within the Fiji group, permits arerequired.

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Entering into/departing Port of EntryBefore proceeding to a Port of Entry, all vessels are required to communicate with Port Controlon VHF channel 16 to request permission to enter the port, and to obtain information on allvessel movements in the harbour. On entering the port, proceed directly to the designatedquarantine area indicated on your chart. Fly the international yellow "Q" flag (requestingPractique) and await instructions or arrival of the correct authorities. Apart fromHealth/Practique, Customs, Immigration or Quarantine Officers, no one should be allowedto board the vessel, nor any person or article leave the vessel until all clearances is granted.

The Ports Authority of Fiji have levied a fee applicable to all vessels entering any of the portsof Suva, Lautoka, Savusavu and Levuka. Vessels up to 100 tonnes pay a maximum of $10.45FJD.

Prior to departing a port of entry, you should notify Port Control of your intended movement.

Health/Practique- On ArrivalThe Health Officer should be the first official to clear the vessel. You will be instructed toawait the arrival of the Health Boat or to proceed directly to the wharf and await the HealthOfficer's arrival. The Department of Health have levied a F$33.00 fee for this clearance whichmust be paid at the Divisional Medical Officer's office.

Customs - On ArrivalAfter clearance by Health/Practique, you are required to moor your vessel until cleared byCustoms. You must facilitate the Customs Officer to board your vessel. The Customs Officerwill process you through a thorough declaration of the yacht's intentions and stores heldaboard whilst in Fijian waters. Please do not take this declaration lightly. The penalty forfalsifying declarations is severe.

DutyVisiting yachts may enter and be kept temporarily in Fiji without payment of Customs duesprovided:

the yacht is the sole property of the bona fide tourist;the yacht is on a bona fide cruise or participating in a yacht race;the yacht shall remain in Fiji for a period not exceeding 12 months of its arrival;

Your yacht will become liable to pay duty if:

it is put to commercial use or for other consideration whilst in Fiji waters (taken for commercialcharters, hired or lease, cruises, etc.);the owner is associated in any way with any entity in Fiji as an employer or employee, either uponarrival or subsequently;the owner is a holder of a Fiji Immigration Permit to enter and reside in Fiji either upon arrivalor subsequently;the yacht is not exported within 12 months of the day of the yachts arrival in Fiji (unless extensionshave been approved - see note).

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Personal AllowancesUpon arrival you will be allowed "landing passengers allowances: regarding high duty goodssuch as liquor, beer or wine and tobacco (cigarettes), per each adult person above 17 years ofage. All spirituous beverages in excess of allowance on arrival will have to have duty paid.Sealing of stores on board the yacht will not be permitted. No duty free spirituous beveragesor other bonded or drawback goods will be allowed on board for any vessels less than 100tonnes.

Only duty paid goods will be permitted to be exported on vessels less than 100 tonnes. Otherthan duty applicable on the above, all equipment on board or imported for the boat shall bekept "duty free" provided such goods depart the country with the boat. For all and suchequipment you are tourists aboard "yachts in transit".

As with most countries world-wide, Fiji is taking a very hard line attitude to persons or yachtsfound with drugs, dangerous weapons (see below), pornographic material or other prohibiteditems. If you have any doubts as to the legality of items aboard, you are strongly advised tocontact the relevant authorities prior to coming to Fiji. Being caught with prohibited itemsaboard, once you arrive in Fiji, will most likely lead to a prison sentence.

NoticesIf you wish to visit another Customs Port or cruise within Fiji waters, you must clear outwardsat the Customs Port where you have last entered your yacht inwards. After completion of yourvisit/cruise, you must immediately report your yacht inwards at a Customs Port.

If, in an emergency, it is found necessary to anchor or stop in any place within Fiji other thana declared port, the master or owner of the craft will be required to make immediate contactwith the authorities mentioned. No cargo, stores or any other goods whatsoever are to beunloaded from the craft.

If you are in possession of firearms and ammunitions, you must surrender both arms andammunition to the Customs officer who clears the vessel. Whilst the vessel is in Fiji, thefirearms and ammunition are held in safe keeping at the port of call Police Station. Thesemay be collected before leaving Fiji by timely arrangement with the Police (at least 48 hoursnotice to be given).

Extensions beyond 12 months are available by application. Extension of the initial 12 monthstay is not automatic and must be applied for in advance, and is at the discretion of theMinister of Finance. Remember, apply in advance before your initial 12 month permit expires.It is advisable to contact a yachting agent for advice on this application.Customs - On DepartureWithin 24 hours of your planned departure from Fijian waters, you should proceed to theCustoms office on the main wharf and complete Customs Clearance formalities. You will needyour inbound clearance papers, crew details, the details of your vessel and next port of call.

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You are required to sail from these waters within 24 hours. If you are delayed beyond thistime, contact the same Customs people immediately. Customs must be cleared beforeImmigration, and Customs will not clear you unless all Port dues and Health fees are paid.

Immigration - On ArrivalYachtsmen require permits from an Immigration Officer before they disembark. If anImmigration Officer does not meet the yacht on its arrival, a message should be sent via theCustoms Officer requesting their attendance. Immigration will clear all persons at the yachtand no one is to disembark before approval to do so is given. The Immigration Departmentmay expect you to pay for the taxi costs to get the officer to the wharf and back.

Notification of vessels arrival and its need to clear Immigration should be relayed throughthe harbour's Port Control. The owner or captain of the yacht will have to ensure that theImmigration Department sights every person aboard, every such persons passport, and receivesfrom all concerned a correctly completed passenger arrival card. If a crew is signing off theyacht, he should produce a return ticket to his country of nationality or permanent residence.It is the owner or captain's responsibility to ensure that all crew who signs off/on should firstobtain the approval of an Immigration Officer. Last port clearance should be presented whileclearing with Immigration Authorities at a clearance port.

He/she should also produce a list of the arrival crew to ensure that all crew who have arrivedon the yacht are leaving. Only exemptions will be the ones who were officially signed off/onby the Immigration Officer. Clearance will be done on board the vessel (not ashore) and ifyou are not along side a port controlled wharf, you will be required to dispatch your tenderto take the Immigration Officer to your boat. The Immigration Officer will require you topay (on production of a claim form) for the transportation cost to get him to the wharf andback. The clearance will be provided free of charge. Also there is no overtime charge applicabeto Immigration clearance that are needed outside of normal working hours.

Immigration - On DepartureImmigration is the final authority to clear the yacht out of the Fijian waters. An appointmentshould be made in advance of your departure advising where within Suva you wish to clearfrom, (it is not essential to have to clear out from the main wharf as it is on arrival). Immigrationwill expect you to physically depart the Port immediately on receiving this clearance, therefore,it is advisable to complete all business ashore prior to this clearance.

On departure, the Captain of the yacht will be required to complete, in duplicate, theDepartment Statement. In addition, he will be required to surrender the following documents:

Authority to DisembarkArrival Statement by Master/Owner; andCruising permit (where necessary)

NoteIt is an offence to call in at any islands before arrival clearance or after receiving departureclearance.

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The penalty for breaching any requirement can be severe. It is therefore advisable not to relyon hearsay information. Always inquire with the proper department for the correct adviceand up-to-date information.

QuarantineOn arrival in a Port of Entry, you should make it known to all authorities if you have anyprohibited items aboard. Otherwise, Quarantine will be notified by Customs if an inspectionis deemed to be necessary. Overseas yachts are requested to declare on arrival the following:

Foods (tinned or packaged), including meat, sausages, salami, ham, pork, poultry, eggs, fats, milk,butter, cheese.Plants/parts of plants (live or dead) including vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, bulbs, flowers (freshor dry), mushroom, straw, bamboo or any other articles made of plant materials.Animal products including semen, feathers, fur/skin, shells, hatching eggs and any other.Animals, reptiles, fish, birds (or parts thereof), alive or dead, stuffed or mounted.Soil or equipment used with animals or any kind, or that have come in contact with soil.Biological specimens including vaccine cultures, blood or any other biological specimen.Domesticated pets to be bonded (cats/dogs/birds).

Many of the above items will not be permitted to be kept aboard the yacht for the durationof the visit in Fiji. What is allowed to stay aboard is at the sole discretion of the Quarantineofficer at the time of Quarantine inspection. Garbage should not be discharged without thepermission of the Quarantine officer and subject to such terms and conditions as he mayimpose.

PermitsTo visit any ports, island or anchorage outside of Suva, Lautoka, Savusavu or Levuka, youneed to file a Customs cruising permit as well as obtain a permit to cruise the islands. Thispermit acts as a letter of introduction to the 'Turaga ni Koro' (the village head), the 'Buli' (headof the provincial subdivision), or the 'Roko Tui' (provincial head). Along with the permit, youwill be briefed on the protocol to be observed when visiting the outer islands. Following suchprotocol will help ensure that your visit is pleasant and memorable.

Cruising permits can be obtained from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs located at 61 CarnavronStreet in Suva, or from the Commissioner Western's office in Lautoka, the CommissionerEastern's office in Levuka, or the Provincial Office in Savusavu. You must bring with youyour Customs papers and details of all crew members and skipper.

If you wish to visit the Lau Group, apply for a permit to visit from the President’s office. RatuSir Kamisese Mara, Fiji's president, is also the Tui Nayau, Paramount Chief of Lau, andtherefore it is his permission that you should seek.

RegulationsYachts visiting Fiji for less than one year are exempt from the Fiji Marine DepartmentRegulations.

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Information courtesy of Yacht Help - Fiji's full service yachting agency.

International TravelFiji has daily flights from Australia (Air Pacific, Qantas, Ansett) and New Zealand (Air Pacific,Qantas, Air New Zealand). Several flights a week arrive from Japan (Air Pacific, Air NewZealand), United States (Air Pacific, Air New Zealand), and Europe (Air New Zealand, Qantas).

Domestic TravelAir Fiji, Sunflower Airlines, Turtle Airlines and Island Hopper Helicopters serve Fiji. Thereare also several ferries including the Adi Savusavu which connect the islands.

The International Telephone Access Code for Fiji is (679)

  Phone Fax EmailAir Fiji 313 66 6300 771 airfiji@is.com.fjIsland Hoppers 720 410 720 172 islandhoppers @is.com.fjSunflower Airlines 723 016 723 611 sunair@is.com.fjTurtle Airlines 721 888 720 095 

VisasNationals of these countries do not require a pre-entry visa to Fiji:

Nationals of other countries require prearranged visas, which can be applied for at the nearest

AntiguaArgentinaAustraliaAustriaBahamasBangladeshBarbadosBelgiumBelizeBermudaBotswanaBrazilBruneiBulgariaCanadaChileColumbiaCyprusCzech Rep.Denmark

DominicaEstoniaGermanyFinlandFranceGambiaGhanaGreeceGrenadaGuyanaHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanKenyaKiribati

LatviaLesothoLiechtensteinLuxembourgMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaltaMarshall IslandsMauritiusMexicoMoldaviaMonacoMicronesiaNauruNetherlandsNew ZealandNigeriaNorway

PakistanPNGParaguayPeruPolandPortugalPhilippinesRep. of IrelandRomaniaRussiaSt. LuciaSt. VincentSamoaSeychelles Sierra LeoneSingaporeSloveniaSolomon IslandsSouth Africa

South KoreaSpainSwazilandSweden SwitzerlandTaiwanTanzaniaThailandTongaTrinidad/TobagoTunisiaTurkeyTuvaluUgandaUK and N. IrelandUSAUruguayVanuatu

VenezuelaYugoslaviaZambiaZimbabwe

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Fiji High Commission or Consulate.

Travellers HealthFiji is free of major tropical diseases, including malaria. Fresh water reticulated in Suva, Nadiand the other major towns and resort areas has been treated and is safe to drink from the tap.

SevusevuIf you plan to visit villages or islands away from the main tourist areas, you will inevitably takepart in a sevusevu. This traditional Fijian ceremony is used, among other things, to welcomevisitors into villages. Once accepted through sevusevu, you become a part of the village. Throughthe ceremony, you are asking permission to visit or use their area, village, land or sea. You shouldgive the chief of the village a small bundle of dried roots of the kava (yaqona) plant. You canbuy the root (waka) by the kilo at the markets. Fijians do it amongst themselves when they wantto ask for, or use something. This is not just for tourists. The village spokesman will do thesevusevu on your behalf so don't worry about how to do it.

Navigation

The Fiji Islands lie in the Southwest Pacific, between 15° and 22° South latitude and 174° Eastand 177° West longitude. The 180th meridian, halfway around the world from Greenwich,England, passes directly through Fiji.

Tides and Tidal StreamsThe range of tide within Fijian waters is between approximately 1.4 and 2.5 metres. It has twohighs and two lows per day. The Fiji Group lies within the influence of the predominantlywest-going south subtropical current the strength of which is dependent mainly upon thestrength and regularity of the southeast Trades. The current is most marked during Septemberand November but its rate seldom exceeds 1 knot. Tidal streams are moderate in strength inopen waters but can become very strong in the reef entrances and straits.

Beacons and Lights

Beaconing System in FijiFiji has adopted the International Association of Lighthouse Authorities (IALA) System A forall buoys and beacons but there is an additional local system of pile beacons used throughoutthe group to indicate passages, channels, and isolated dangers among the coral reefs. The beaconsare of steel or concrete, with distinctive topmarks indicating on which side the vessels shouldpass. These are as follows:

White triangular topmark point up. Pass to seaward of the beacon.White diamond topmark. Isolated danger. Pass either side of the beacon.Black triangular topmark point down. Pass to shoreward of the beacon.Pennant topmark painted red or yellow. Points to the clear channel. 

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Beacons are subject to cyclonic and other damages and it may take a considerable time beforethey are replaced or repaired.Mariners are advised not to pass close to the beacons as, in many cases, it is not possible todrive the beacons on the outer extremity of reefs and patches, and therefore the danger mayextend several metres beyond the beacons.The mariners should be guided more by the direction indicated by the shape of beacons andpennants rather than the colours which are sometimes difficult to distinguish.It is inevitable that when navigating among islands some confusion will arise as to which isthe seaward, and which is the shoreward side, and therefore these beacons should be used inconjunction with the largest scale chart available, and should at all times be used with caution.Beacons may be some metres in from the edge of the danger, colours may be distinct at timesand tops may be damaged or missing. Non-standard private beacons may occasionally beencountered. It is an offence to moor to beacons.When navigating among coral reefs polaroid type sunglasses will be found to be of greatassistance. The best condition for navigating among coral reefs are with the sun behind thenavigator and the surface ruffled by a light breeze. The worst conditions are with the sunahead and a glassy calm sea.

LightsAll lights in the Fiji Islands are unwatched. They are, however, reasonably well maintained.

RadioThe Coast Radio Station, 'SUVA RADIO' 3 Delta Papa, provides 24-hour coverage on callingfrequencies 2182 and 6215 kHz and VHF ch 16.

Medical AdviceSuva (3DP) also provides medical advice by radio, on request. Address: 'RADIOMEDICAL'.

Distress, Search and RescueSuva Radio (3DP) maintains a continuos RT listening watch on 2182 kHz for distress calls.The station is also equipped with 6215 kHz for Search and Rescue operations. All distresscalls are relayed to Fiji Police, Search and Rescue Co-ordination Centre and MaritimeSurveillance Centre.

Emergency telephone calls can be made to the following:Police Information, Suva: 311.222Maritime Surveillance Centre, Suva: 315.380Search and Rescue Co-ordination Centre, Nadi Airport: 723.855

Weather Services and Navigational WarningsMarine weather bulletins and forecasts are plentiful, both on entertainment radio and 3DP.

All warnings are broadcast on receipt by Coast Radio Suva (3DP) and both Fiji BroadcastingCommission and Communications Fiji Ltd. Suva (3DP) will be open on all frequencies fromreceipt of any Tropical Cyclone Alert until the All Clear is given.

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Fiji Meteorological Service also has a website with satellite photos of the area and regularweather bulletins: www.met.gov.fj/

Suva Radio (3DP)Weather MessagesThe broadcasts on 3DP are on 4372 and 8746 kHz., at 0803, 1203, 1603 and 2003; on 521 kHz.,at 0830, 1205, 1605 and 2030, Fiji local time.

Storm WarningsWarnings are broadcast on receipt and every 12 hours until cancelled. It is also repeated inthe New Zealand Notices to Mariners.

Fiji Broadcasting Commission (Radio Fiji Gold)990 108990.6 MHz94.6 MHz105 MHz100.2 MHz

Weather MessagesMon to Fri: every hour from 0600 to 1700; 1830, 2000, 2100, and 2200 (after the news). Satto Sun: every hour from 0600 to 1000; 1230, 1330, 1500, 1700, 2100, and 2200 (after the news).

Storm WarningsIssued on receipt. Cyclone warnings are repeated every H + 30Communications Fiji LTD (Radio FM96 and Navatarang)

Suva 96 MHzLautoka95.4 MHzSigatoka99.6 MHzBa99.6 MHzLabasa95.4 MHz

Weather MessagesMon to Fri: Every H + 00 (0600 - 1800), Sat: 0700, 1000, 1300, 1800, Sun: 0800, 1300, 1800(after the news)

Storm WarningsIssued on receipt. Cyclone warnings are repeated every H + 30

Information courtesy of the Hydrographic Office-Fiji Marine Department

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Books and Publications

A Yachtsman's Fiji, by Michael Calder; The Cruising Classroom, Sydney; 2nd ed. 1992

Fiji Nautical Almanac, Hydrographic Office, Marine Department, Suva, published annually

Yacht Help Marine Information Booklet, Jeff Norton, Yacht Help, Lautoka, published annually

Principal Fiji Chart AgentsAddress Phone Fax

Hydrographic Office Motibhai Building, (679) 315 266 (679) 300 251- Fiji Marine Department Freeston Road (679) 315 457

Walu Bay, Suva

Carpenters Shipping Neptune House, (679) 312 244 (679) 301 472Tofua StreetWalu Bay, Suva

Tradewinds Marine PO BOX 262 (679) 850 457 (679) 850 344Chandlery,Copra Shed Savusavu

Boat Books Ltd. 31 Albany Street , (02) 439 1133 (02) 439 8517Crows NestSydney, NSW 2065Australia

Trans Pacific Marine Ltd. 121 Beaumont Street (09) 303 1459 (09) 307 8170 Auckland

New Zealand

Captains Nautical 2500 - 15th Avenue (206) 283 7242 (206) 281 4921 SuppliesInc. West Seattle,

Washington 98119 USA

Pacific Map Center 560 N. Nimitz Highway (808) 545 3600 (808) 545 1700 Suite 206A Honolulu,

Hawaii 96817USA

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List of Fiji Charts

Number Title

F 5 Lautoka to Yasawa IslandsF 6 Fiji Islands - 200 mile EEZF 7 Suva Harbour - Nubulekaleka BayF 9 Kadavu - Western PortionF 10 Kadavu Island - Northern PortionF 11 Plans in KadavuF 50 Vanua Levu - Natewa Bay - Southern PortionF 51 Vanua Levu - Somosomo Strait to Rabi ChannelF 52 Natewa Bay to Nanuku PassageF 100 Plans in the Koro SeaF 105 Plans in Yasawa Islands - sheets 1-7 (Pickmere series maps)F 602 Tasman and Coral Seas - Australia to Northern New Zealand and FijiF 604 Coral and Solomon Seas and Adjacent SeasF 604 New Zealand to Fiji and Samoa Islands

List of British Admiralty Chart Folio 70Fiji, Tonga, Ellice and Gilbert Islands, etc.

Number Title184 Plans of the Phoenix Islands377 Approaches to Labasa378 Savusavu Bay379 Bligh Water - Eastern Portion381 Bligh Water - Western Portion382 Vanua Levu (Central Portion) with Makogai and Koro384 Ravi Ravi Point to Mali Island385 Yaqaqa Island to Ravi Ravi Passage386 Yadua Island to Yaqaga Island387 Vatia Lailai to Viti Levu Bay389 Lautoka to Vatia Lailai416 Passages and Anchorages in the Fiji Islands440 Fiji Islands, Eastern Group - Northern Portion441 Fiji Islands, Eastern Group - Southern Portion488 Makogai Channel to Nasilai Reef495 Sau Sau Passage to Ringgold Channel700 Maiana to Marakei731 Gilbert Group743 Abemama: South Passage744 Suva Harbour to Koro Island745 Kadavu to Suva Harbour746 Navula Passage to Beqa751 Koro Island to Northern Lau Group755 Abaiang

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766 Ellice Islands767 Tabiteuea - South Lagoon768 Arorae: Peacock Anchorage: Nonouti968 Islands and Reefs between Fiji, Samoa and Tonga979 Islands between 160 east and 150 west longitude1244 Levuka Harbour1247 Matuku1248 Totoya1252 Moala1451 Canton Island, Lagoon Entrance1660 Suva Harbour1670 Plans in Viti Levu1673 Western Approaches to Suva Harbour1674 Eastern Approaches to Suva Harbour1682 Beqa Passage and Lagoon1729 Islands in American Samoa2691 Fiji Islands2983 Funafuti Atoll2992 Rotuma Island3269 Plans in the Gilbert Islands4007 South Pacific Ocean4605 New Zealand to Fiji and Samoa4617 Tuvalu to Palmyra Island4624 Santa Cruz to Butaritari4625 Tuvalu to Butaritari4629 Samoa Islands to Northern Cook Islands and Tokelau4630 Samoa Islands to Southern Cook Islands4631 Samoa Islands to Tonga including Niue4632 Fiji to Tuvalu4637 Vanuatu to Norfolk Island4638 Fiji to Kermadec Islands

Information courtesy of the Hydrographic Office- Fiji Marine Department

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Facilities - Yacht Clubs & Marinas

Yacht Club & Marina Facilities Guide

Copra Musket Port Raffles Royal Suva Vuda Shed Cove Denarau Tradewinds Yacht

Club Point

Some stern to or • • • •alongside berths

Majority roadstead • • • • moorings/anchoring

All alongside berths • •

Laundry facilities • • • • •

Power and water • • • • •

Telephone/fax/mail services • • • • • •

Yacht club facilities • • • • •

Showers and WCs• • • • • • •

Repair and haul out facilities •

Copra Shed Marina and Yacht ClubOriginally built to service copra boats, the 'shed' was fully renovated and converted into a modern marina in 1991. Located on Fiji's second largest island of Vanua Levu, the marina is handy to the seaside town of Savusavu, which was built in the days of the prosperous copra trade and today still maintains a frontier ambience. Savusavu is an Official Port of Entry into Fiji.

The Copra Shed is the agent for the Yacht Shop (chandlery) and the Fibreglass Shop. The marina also contains a Yacht Club, pizza restaurant, cafe and various other stores, including the Bula Bookshop which sells the British Admiralty and Fiji charts, and "A Yachtsmans Fiji" by M. Calder.

PO Box 262Savusavu Tel (679) 850 457Fax (679) 850 344Email coprashed@is.com.fj

Musket Cove Marina and Yacht ClubLocated on Malolo Lailai Island in the beautiful Mamanucas, Musket Cove provides an ideal gateway to Fiji's spectacular cruising grounds. Marina berths and moorings are available or yachts can drop anchor in the tranquil bay. Famous for sponsoring the annual Musket Cove

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to Port Vila Regatta, Musket Cove is also well-known for its Ratu Nemani Island Bar or '$2.00 bar' and supermarket, 'The Trader'. General mechanics and a limited boat repair facility is available.

Annual host for: Musket Cove to Port Vila Regatta Fiji Regatta Week

Musket Cove ResortPrivate Mail Bag, NAP 0352Nadi Airport Tel (679) 662 215Fax (679) 662 633Email musketcovefiji@is.com.fj

Port Denarau Marina and Yacht ClubPort Denarau is the host of the President's Cup. It is located on Nadi's Denarau Island, which is also home to two ITT Sheraton hotels. The first phase of the marina has been a commercial enterprise for major cruise operators that frequent the Mamanuca and Yasawa group of islands. It now has 10 Super Yacht berths (up to 50 meters) and 100 small craft berths as well as swing moorings.

Host for: Auckland to Denarau Yacht Classic President's Cup International Race Series Denarau Race Week

Captain Robert Southey, Port Denarau Harbour Masterc/o Tabua Investments LimitedPO Box 9347, Nadi Airport Tel (679) 750 600Fax (679) 750 700Email denarau4fiji@is.com.fj

Raffles Tradewinds Hotel and MarinaLocated in the Bay of Islands, commonly called Tradewinds Bay, Raffles Tradewinds offers a deep water bay with sheltered anchorage and easy access to Suva. The Raffles Tradewinds Hotel has swimming pool facilities, restaurants and a bar.

PO Box 3377Lami Tel (679) 362 450Fax (679) 362 455Email tradewindsresv@is.com.fj

The Royal Suva Yacht ClubEstablished in 1932, the RSYC is Fiji's oldest yacht club and has organised many races including the traditional Auckland to Suva yacht race together with the Royal Akarana Yacht

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Club. It is located only minutes from the centre of Fiji's capital city, Suva, which is one of four Ports of Entry into Fiji. It has a lively atmosphere, is frequented by the locals and is a marvellous place to enjoy a BBQ dinner while watching the sun sink slowly over the horizon.

Host for: Coffs Harbour to Suva Yacht Race PO Box 335Suva Tel (679) 312 921Fax (679) 304 433Email rsyc@is.com.fj

Vuda Point MarinaSituated on the shores of Vuda Point and overlooking the spectacular cruising grounds of the Mamanuca and Yasawa Island, is Fiji's newest marina. It is 10 minutes from the sugar city of Lautoka, another Port of Entry and only a short drive from Nadi International Airport. Vuda Point Marina hosted the Yamaha Auckland to Fiji Regatta. Next door to the marina is First Landing, a beach front bar and restaurant which also offers cottage and dormitory accommodation.

The marina has a capacity of about 100 boats and has a minimum depth of 3 metres. Repair and haul-out services are available. Facilities include a supermarket, chandlery, dive shop, Yacht Help, and Pacific Marine Yacht Consultants.

PO Box 5717Lautoka Tel (679) 668 214Fax (679) 668 215

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Products & Services The International Telephone Access Code for Fiji is (679)

BatteriesArea Phone Fax Email

Carpenters Motors Suva 312 055 301 872

Pacific Batteries Ltd Suva 362 255 362 737

Boat Repair (Structural, Carpentry, Welding)

Area Phone Fax EmailAlloy Fabricators Suva 361 988 361 356 dunlop@is.com.fj

Pacific Marina Yacht Lautoka 668 969 668 814 yachthelp@is.com.fjConsultants

Ship Building Fiji Ltd. Suva 314 699 303 500 sfl@is.com.fj Shipyard 300 374 Slipway

United Marine (Slipway) Suva 301 257 304 467311 452

Vuda Point Marina Lautoka 668 214 668 215

Books & Charts

Area Phone Fax Email

Hydrographic Office Suva 315 266 300 251Fiji Marine Department 315 457

Carpenters Shipping Suva 312 244 301 472

Tradewinds Marine Savusavu 850 457 850 344 coprashed@is.com.fj Chandlery, Copra Shed

Canvas (Products/Repairs)Area Phone Fax Email

Asia Pacific Suva 384 692 Management Ltd 370 171(Pacific Sails & Awnings)

Custom Covers Ltd Suva 361 596 361 576(Anton Lee) 998 836

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Chandlery & Rigging

Area Phone Fax Emaill

The Yacht Shop Suva 361 522 361 035 tradewinds@is.com.fj(Tradewinds Marine Ltd) Savusavu

Vuda

Courier ServiceArea Phone Fax Email

Carpenters Shipping Suva 302 217 302 471(Federal Express/ NadiAir Express) Lautoka

CDP Services Ltd Suva 313 077 300 391NadiLautoka

DHL International Suva 313 166 302 707 valentine@is.com.fj (Fiji) Ltd Nadi

LautokaSavusavu

TNT Express World-wide Suva 384 742 tntew@is.com.fjNadi 84 677 Lautoka

PNT Express Courier LtdSuva Nadi 314 592 314 592

Electronics (Marine)/Radio/Radar

Area Phone Fax Email Communications Pacific Suva 312 744 300 379 compac@suva.is.com.fj- Compac AWA

Ocean Technical Services Suva 361 582 998 818 320 876(Ed Saphore)

Tecair Ltd Suva 385 011 370 238 tecair@is.com.fj

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Engineering

Area Phone Fax Email Alloy Fabricators Suva 361 988 361 256 dunlop@is.com.fjLautoka Engineering LtdLautoka 661 788 664 077Marconsult Ltd Suva 362 495 961 623 361 623(Brian Labudde)

Pressure Consultants Suva 993 503(Loel Peters)

Seamech Ltd Suva 301 882 300 866 seamech@is.com.fj 305 992

Shipbuilding Ltd Suva 314 699 303 500 sfl@is.com.fj

South Sea Suva 302 045 302 545Engineering Ltd

United Engineers Ltd Suva 301 257 304 467

Fibreglass (Boats/Repairs)

Area Phone Fax Email The Fibreglass Shop Suva 361 057 362 177 tradewinds@is.com.fj Savusavu

Pacific Fibreglass Ltd Suva 361 613 362 767

Safeway Marine (Fiji) LtdSuva 387 710 370 744

Internet Access

Area Phone Fax Email

The Republic of Suva 300 333 361 035 roc@is.com.fjCappuccino

Internet Services Suva 210 351  307 237  info@is.com.fj

Life RaftsArea Phone Fax Email

Marine Safety Suva 312 426 306 121Services Ltd. 304 764

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Marine Surveyors

Area Phone Fax Email Billet Wright & Suva 313 766 313 162 Associates Ltd

Toplis Cargo & Marine Lautoka 663 922 665 866663 504

Naval ArchitectsArea Phone Fax Email

Colin Dunlop Suva 361 988 361 356 dunlop@is.com.fj

Outboards (Sales/Service Parts/Repairs)

Area Phone Fax Email

Asco Motors Suva 384 888 370 309 asco@is.com.fj (Yamaha & Mariner)

Bor & Levi Suva 313 644 305 715(Johnson & Evinrude) ext. 250

Carpenters Motors - Sales Suva 313 644 301 872(Johnson & Evinrude) Nadi

Lautoka

Imported Marine Nadi 701 720 650 641Accessories

Suva Marine Services LtdSuva 313 990 312 770 (Mercury)

Tradewinds Marine Ltd Suva 361 796 361 055 tradewinds@is.com.fj (Seagull) 361 522

Paint/Hardware/Epiglass Products

Area Phone Fax Email Asian Paints Ltd Suva 311 982 305 131 asianpaintsuva@is.com.fj

Lautoka

Burns Philp Suva 311 777 303 697NadiLautoka

Carpenters Builders Suva Nadi Lautoka 313 155 306 694 Merchants

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ICI Paints (Fiji) Ltd Suva 361 622 361 094

Taubmans Paints Suva Lautoka 304 100 303 007 (Fiji) Ltd

RefrigerationArea Phone Fax Email

Kooline Suva 313 277 303 343

United Airco Ltd Suva 362 025 361 274

Sailmakers

Area Phone Fax Email Custom Covers Suva 361 596 361 576 - Minor Repairs (Anton Lee)

Marshall Sails Lautoka 669 911 669 911 marshallsails@is.com.fj (Alan Marshall) 930 246

Yacht Agent/Pilots/Yacht Delivery

Area Phone Fax EmailCarl Bay Suva 361 382 362 930

998821

Captain Carol Dunlop Suva 362 356 361 256 dunlop@is.com.fj361 988

Latitude South Suva/Nadi722 835 998 825 latitudesouth@is.com.fj

Yacht Help Lautoka 688 969 668 814 yachthelp@is.com.fj

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