SOUTHERN LAU EXPEDITION

DAY 1

THE GREAT SEA REEF

Before the sun sets, take an afternoon snorkel, swim or dive on the third largest reef in the world, the Great Sea Reef. Settle into a sunset cocktail and enjoy a welcome dinner on board as you are introduced to the crew.

DAY 2

BULIYA

Buliya is Fiji’s fourth largest island whose villages and residents are discovered on a guided hike with our ship’s crew. Later complete a refreshing ocean swim or take a book and laze on its magnificent white sandy beaches. There’s a chance to swim and snorkel with serene manta rays in Buliya’s pristine shallow waters and for divers, the world’s fourth largest reef Great Astrolabe is calling!

DAY 3

MATUKU

Between 1840 and 1853 when Ma’afu was trying invade the island, the Cakobau (King) of Fiji was protected on Matuku by the people and ultimately returned to his home island of Bau. Evidence of the fierce battles remain including ring ditches and war fortifications from the era can be found around the island. Highlights include joining a guided hike to discover the island’s history and visit Lomati, one of its five villages.

DAY 4

FULAGA & YAGASA

Fulaga is an extinct volcano crater and is famous for its crystal-clear lagoons, colourful tropical fish and vibrant corals. You’ll have a chance to swim in this magnificent aqua blue paradise and meet local villagers who’ll be happy to welcome you to their home and share their traditionally crafted woodcarvings and handicrafts. We arrive at Yagasa Island for snorkelling, swimming, coral viewing and kayaking. Snorkel around the magnificent collection of coral bommies rich with diverse and abundant marine life and beautiful coral gardens.

DAY 5

VAQAVA & KABARA‍

Come ashore on the chalky white beach of this uninhabited and sacred island of Vuaqava. A beautiful, guided hike through the lush vegetation leads to the centre of the island where an inland lake - known for its resident turtles, snakes and amazing bird life. It’s a great spot to have a swim or just enjoy the tranquility. When you return to the island’s shore you may be treated to a locally prepared delicacy of coconut crabs.

This afternoon you’ll be welcomed and entertained by the people of the Naikeleyaga Village on the island of Kabara. Known for its wood turning and Tongan heritage, Kabara is famous in Fiji as the home of wood carving. Experience a traditional Meke, Sevusevu & lovo here which is quite different from most you will find in Fiji.

DAY 6

TOTOYA ISLAND‍

Today’s island visit heads to the tiny horse-shoe shaped Totoya Island with its deep-water volcanic crater. The high reef surrounding Totoya makes it a popular boating destination with its fascinating water passages and it’s also home to a world-famous surfing break. We visit a local school and the children will surprise you with their entertainment and be proud to show you their work. We’ll also have the opportunity to explore the local reefs for some outstanding diving and snorkeling.

DAY 7

VATULELE & BEQA‍

A beautiful aquamarine lagoon surrounds Vatulele offering fabulous snorkelling and extraordinary dive sites. Vatulele is the most famous place in Fiji for the craft of tapa, the traditional bark cloth. The ladies of the village share their knowledge and teach you how it is done. Exploring the island, you’ll discover the sacred and protected red prawns. The story of firewalking in Fiji begins around 500 years ago on the island of Beqa, when there were only around 50 people living in the village of Nakarovu. Legend says the special firewalking powers are specific to the descendants of Tuinaiviqalita. Beqa also offers the opportunity to dive with sharks and a chance to book in for an optional sport fishing experience.

DAY 8

LAUTOKA ‍

Enjoy breakfast onboard as we return to Lautoka for a 9:00am disembarkation. Our crew bid you farewell in song including their traditional Fijian ‘Isa Lei’ as they say ‘Sota Tale’ or ‘see you again’. Transfers will be available to the Airport, Port Denarau hotels and the Port Denarau Marina.