Yasawa Island Group, Fiji discovery cruise / 200nm / 12 - 22 May 2023

11 days / cat 3 Island cruising / SILVER FERN & Salt Lines: crew FULL waitlist only

The majestic Yasawa Islands group lies northwest of the main island of Viti Levu in Fiji and stretches 62nm into the South Pacific Ocean. Their remoteness, white sand beaches, clear blue lagoons and unique terrains make this remote, rugged and authentic group of 20 ancient islands, one of the most stunning regions of Fiji. Fortunately because of this remoteness to the mainland, commercial development has never taken hold.

Formed several million years ago by volcanoes, the southernmost islands of Kuata and Waya Lailai have dramatic elevations, incredible rock formations and summits at almost 600 metres above sea level. The pristine beaches and dramatic landscape provide a beautiful environment in which to relax or enjoy away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. 

Secure your place on the crew with a 20% deposit.

AUD$8,750

11 days

Itinery

You can fly directly into Nadi Airport on or before the 12th of May 2023. When you arrive we'll familiarise you with the yacht, systems and safety equipment and you will join us for a crew welcome dinner. Our crew will officially assemble from the 13th onwards at the Vuda Point Marina, 20 minutes north of the airport and we will aim to depart (subject to weather) around midday on the 13th of May 2023 and leave the Vuda Point Marina, heading NW for the first of our Yasawa Island anchorages.  You are welcome to stay onboard from the date you arrive but if you plan to arrive prior to 12th of May, you may need to arrange accommodation ashore. 

The goal is to circumnavigate the Yasawa Island group over the following 10 days, stopping daily at selected bays, attractions and islands en-route. We will aim to sail back into Vuda Point Marina on the 21st of May and you can stay onboard on arrival before departing out of Nadi Airport on the 22nd of May.

The islands are steeped in mystery and legend. The Yasawan people live as they have done for centuries, keeping the spirit of the islands alive with their traditional and simple lifestyle. Blessed with dramatic volcanic peaks and sun-drenched white sand beaches, the Yasawa Islands is a haven for nature lovers and its a sailors dream for an adventurous ocean escapade. Further north, turquoise lagoons surround white sandy beaches. It includes the famous Blue Lagoon and as the name suggests, the water is the most inviting shades of blue you will ever see.

Many of the Yasawa islands are home to traditional island villages and it's these Fijian people who help make this cruising adventure magical. This 12 day cruising adventure will include a series of day hops and overnight anchorages in peaceful sheltered bays at many of the following islands in the group; Kuata, Waya and Waya Lailai, Viwa, Naukacuva, Nanuya Balavu, Drawaqa, Naviti, Yaqeta, Matacawalevu, Nanuya Lailai, Tavewa and Nacula. 

We’ll island hop our way through the archipelago to standout spots like the awe-inspiring Sawa-i-Lau caves, swim with mesmerising mantas and discover delightful underwater coral gardens. There are secret beaches to discover, deserted bays to snorkel and scenic lookouts where you can watch the sun slip into the sea. 

Famous for its natural beauty, the ‘Blue Lagoon’, is ringed by islands with soft rolling peaks. Coconut palms line the whitest sandy beaches you have ever seen and the water is a mix of aqua and turquoise, so stunning that you’ll want to dive right in and discover the coral reefs below. In the midst of the Blue Lagoon is what’s considered to be the jewel of the Yasawas -  ‘Nanuya Lailai’. Dotted with palm trees and surrounded by a coral lagoon, the island is truly one of Fiji’s gems. The surrounding waters are alive with colourful fish and coral. 

Referred to as ‘the very heart of the Yasawas’, the majestic Sawa i lau Caves are one of the ‘must-do’ activities for sailors visiting the spectacular Blue Lagoon. The ancient limestone formations, carved by constant wave action, are hidden within a little island in the northern Yasawas. The history of the caves is legendary; the story goes that a young Chief once safely settled with his betrothed in the cave after her family threatened to marry her off to a rival Chief. Every day he would swim into this hidden grotto with food for the girl until eventually they both escaped to the safety of another island and to be together forever. The sacred Sawa i lau Caves are also known as the resting place of the ten-headed ancient Fijian god, Ulutini.

Inclusions

Your crew package includes; all meals onboard, crew meals in Fiji and various stopover ports, accommodation onboard, your Ocean Sailing Expeditions crew shirt, marina fees, the use of a PFD (personal flotation device), PLB (personal locator beacon), and a safety tether. Your bedding, a pillow and towel are also included along with suncream.

Exclusions

Your crew package excludes; accommodation ashore, flights and transport to and from departure and arrival ports, alcohol, toiletries, clothing and wet weather gear. You will need to complete either a 5-hour online or 2-day classroom based Sea Safety and Survival Training Course or equivalent prior to departure.

Its always recommended that you book flights with date flexibility incase of unforeseen changes due to weather or schedules. Accommodation options if you want to stay ashore either side of trip: AirBNB, Booking.com,  Wotif &  HomeAway.

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