We could rant all day about how much we love Fiji. In particular, the islands of Fiji including the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands. Our first trip there together was in January 2020 and needless to say we completely fell in love with the country. Not only is the water some of the bluest we have come across, but the weather is also superb and the vibe is total relaxation. Saying that, the BEST part of Fiji is the people. The Fijians are honestly some of the most friendly and accommodating people we have come across. They truly make Fiji such a desirable destination.
On our first trip to Fiji, we were on an assignment. This meant we did not have to organise any transfers ourselves. However, on our recent trip to Fiji in December 2021, we were required to organise our own transfers including a boat ride with South Sea Cruises. Below we detail our experience with South Sea Cruises as well as provide some information about how to travel around/between the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands. We will also give you an insight into some of the awesome day trips they offer!
About South Sea Cruises
South Sea Cruises is the leading maritime operator in Fiji offering both Day Cruises and Inter-island transfers. Departing from Denarau Island daily at various times, they are an excellent choice when it comes to setting sail throughout the islands of Fiji. Unfortunately, we did not have time to join them on a Day Cruise this trip but we did use them for our transfer to and from Castaway Island.
What trips do they offer?
Some of the main islands they visit include Beachcomber Island, Castaway Island, Malolo Island, Tokoriki Island and Vomo Island Resort (all in the Mamanuca Islands) and Barefoot Manta and Kuata (in the Yasawa Islands). For a full list of inter-island transfers we recommend having a look on their website.
In terms of their Day trip offerings, the newest adventure is onboard the brand new sailing catamaran, Sabre. This allows guests the opportunity to cruise the Mamanuca Islands while making stops along the way to swim and snorkel the incredible tropical reefs. The boat is an open catamaran with large shaded canopies, bean bags and booths to enjoy a gourmet morning tea and lunch. There is also a fully stocked bar for those looking to take holiday vibes to the next level.
Whether you are on a Day Cruise or an inter-island transfer, the boats are well equipped to make your journey enjoyable. The modern catamaran we travelled on to Castaway Island had air-conditioned lounges, outside viewing decks and a fully licensed bar with snacks available to purchase. It didn’t feel like a ‘regular’ transfer as the views of the surrounding islands throughout the entire trip were magical. It was an experience in itself.
Our Experience with South Sea Cruises
On the morning we departed to Castaway Island, we transferred from our hotel to Port Denarau. We had already pre-arranged this, however, South Sea Cruises can also assist with organising this transfer for you too. Once you arrive at Port Denarau, the South Sea Cruises office is located as soon as you enter the port. The friendly staff will help to confirm your tickets. They will issue you with paper tickets for both your departing and returning trips (if you book a return trip). Afterwards, they will direct you to the area where you can leave your suitcases. They have a colour coding system for suitcases so you can be at ease that your suitcases will arrive at the correct island!
Once boarded, you can choose where you would like to sit. We sat downstairs in the air-conditioned lounge which also had easy access to one of the outside viewing decks at the front of the boat. Otherwise, there are seats towards the back of the boat or up the top if you prefer to take in the sea breeze throughout your trip. Make sure you have your phone or camera on you as there are some lovely photo opportunities.
Our transfer from Port Denarau to Castaway took approximately 90 minutes. On arrival, members of the staff from Castaway Island met us out at the South Sea Cruise where we boarded a smaller boat to be transferred to the mainland. You don’t need to worry about collecting your bags as the staff onboard the cruise will do this for you! It is a carefree operation and we couldn’t recommend it more!
How to book with South Sea Cruises
In order to make a booking with South Sea Cruises, use this link. From there, you will be able to choose a Day Cruise or an inter-island transfer. The name of each of the resorts they drop off at can be found in the drop downlink on their website. Keep in mind all transfers and day cruises depart from Port Denarau so it is only the destination that you will need to select. The inter-island transfers will not take you directly to your island, there will be stops along the way.
If you are heading to Fiji, check out some of our other blogs!
