Escape the mainland and explore Fiji’s tropical islands on a seamless day cruise from Port Denarau. With short sailing times, easy transfers, and flexible half- or full-day options, Fiji cruises make island-hopping, snorkelling, and beach time effortless—perfect for a relaxed one-day escape.

Overview

  • Distance from Port Denarau: Approx. 10-25 km (varies by island)
  • Typical travel time: 20-50 minutes by high-speed catamaran
  • On-site visit duration: 4-5 hours (half-day) or 7-8 hours (full-day)
  • Cost range: From budget-friendly scenic cruises to premium island experiences
  • Best season/time: May-October (dry season); morning departures are calmest
  • Meeting & drop-off point: Port Denarau Marina
  • Key attractions covered: Mamanuca Islands, Malamala Beach Club, coral reefs, lagoons, sandbanks, island resorts

What to expect on a Fiji Cruise

Sailing catamaran near Kuata Island, Fiji, with lush green hills in the background.
Couple relaxing on beach chairs under umbrella with catamaran in background, South Sea Sailing, Fiji.
Guests enjoying the Ride and Slide Catamaran by South Sea Cats in Fiji.
Snorkelling trainer assisting kids with gear on a boat, South Sea Cats, Fiji.
Friends paddle surfing at Malamala Beach Club, Fiji.
Woman sipping a drink in the pool at Malamala Beach Club, Fiji, with palm trees in the background.
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Smooth transfers

Easy check-in at Port Denarau and comfortable catamaran rides to your chosen island.

Relaxed experience

Well-paced itineraries balance cruising, snorkelling, island exploration, and beach or resort relaxation.

Onboard comfort

Travel on modern catamarans with shaded seating, amenities, and a friendly crew.

Guided support

Crew provide tips, local insights, and help with activities like snorkelling or water sports.

Optional add-ons

Enhance your day with snorkelling gear, paddleboards, watersports, premium seating, or meals.

Island activities

Swim in lagoons, explore sandbanks, lounge on white-sand beaches, or enjoy beach clubs and resort facilities.

Things to know before booking your Fiji Cruise

With many cruises departing from Port Denarau, the right choice depends on how active you want to be and who you’re travelling with. Your options range from relaxed beach days to snorkelling adventures and family-focused trips.

  • Activities: If you’re after a relaxed beach day, options like Malamala Beach Club, Malolo Island Resort, and Castaway Island are ideal. For something more active, experiences such as Ride and Slide Snorkelling Cruise and the Ultimate Encounters Snorkel with Sharks focus on snorkelling and marine life.
  • Kids' activity: If you’re travelling with children, the South Sea Island Finding Nemo Family Trip is a great option. It’s safe, interactive, and designed specifically with families in mind.
  • Day trips & island time: Most cruises give you plenty of free time on the island, so you can swim, relax, explore, or enjoy the resort facilities at your own pace. Trips to South Sea Island and the resort islands usually allow several hours ashore, making them a good choice if you prefer flexibility over a fixed schedule.
  • Cruises: Some trips, like the South Sea Island & Mamanuca Islands Combo Cruise and South Sea Sailing Full-Day Trip, combine scenic cruising with plenty of time on the water. Adventure trips include guided snorkelling, while beach club and resort visits are more relaxed and left to you to enjoy at your own pace.
  • Transfers & ferries: All experiences include high-speed ferry or catamaran transfers from Port Denarau, and most tickets also include round-trip hotel transfers from Nadi, Denarau, Wailoaloa, and nearby areas, so transport is fully taken care of.
  • Duration: Half-day experiences usually run 4-5 hours, making them perfect if you want to keep the rest of your day free. Full-day trips last 7-8 hours, and give you more time to explore, snorkel, or enjoy lunch on the island.
  • Meals: Many experiences include lunch, particularly full-day trips to South Sea Island, Castaway Island, Malolo Island Resort, and shark snorkelling encounters. Beach club passes and some half-day cruises may offer meals as optional add-ons, so it’s worth checking inclusions before booking.

Which Fiji Cruise is right for you?

ExperienceDurationInclusionsF&BBest suited forUpgrades / Add-onsPrice

Malamala Beach Club Day Pass

5-8 hours

Ferry transfers, beach club access, water activities, towel service, Wi-Fi

No

Couples, solo travellers, friends wanting a relaxed, adults-only beach day

Full-day pass

From FJ$ 163

South Sea Island Day Trip with Lunch

5-8 hours

Transfers, ferry, island access, water activities, Kids Club, ‘Meke’ performance

Lunch & beverages

First-time visitors, casual explorers, couples or small groups looking for a full island experience

Full-day trip

From FJ$222

South Sea Island Combo Cruise with Lunch

6 hours

Transfers, ferry, island visit, water activities, Kids Club, ‘Meke’ performance

Lunch & beverages

Those who want scenic cruising plus island time; ideal for photography enthusiasts

From FJ$241

Castaway Island Full-Day Trip with Lunch

8h 30min

Transfers, ferry, island access, beach time

Lunch

Couples or honeymooners seeking a resort-style private island day

From FJ$321

South Sea Island Finding Nemo Family Trip

3 hours

Transfers, ferry, island visit, water activities, Kids Club

Lunch & beverages

Families with young children, first-time family travellers, those wanting short, kid-friendly activities

From FJ$137

Ride & Slide: Half-Day Snorkelling Trip

4h 30 mins

Snorkelling stops, gear, slide access

Lunch

Active travellers, snorkel lovers, groups or friends looking for fun water activities

From FJ$222

Ultimate Encounters Snorkel with Sharks

9h 15 mins

Guided shark snorkel, island access, dive shop, paddle boards & kayaks

Lunch

Adventure seekers, thrill-seekers, experienced snorkelers/divers

From FJ$391

Malolo Island Resort Day Trip with Lunch

9 hours

Transfers, ferry, island visit, water activities, beach access

Lunch

Relaxed luxury travellers, couples, small groups seeking a serene resort experience

From FJ$321

South Sea Sailing Full-Day Trip

7 hours

Sailing experience, island stops, water activities

Lunch & beverages

Adults, sailing enthusiasts, couples or groups wanting a sailing-focused day with islands

From FJ$ 255

Main stops on your Fiji Cruise

Landscape view of Denarau port with boats and waterfront buildings in Nadi, Fiji.

Port Denarau

The main departure and return point for Fiji cruises, with modern facilities and easy island access.

Small South Sea Island in Mamanuca Island group, Fiji

Mamanuca Islands

A chain of tropical islands known for white-sand beaches, clear lagoons, and vibrant reef areas.

Snorkelers swimming with a shark over coral reefs at Kuata Island, Fiji.

Kuata Island

A relaxed island stop ideal for snorkelling, swimming, and unwinding by the beach.

Staff member with drinks on a pier at Malamala Beach Club, Fiji.

Malamala Beach Club

A stylish private island beach club with dining, drinks, and laid-back island activities.

Couple relaxing on lounge chairs under an umbrella at South Sea Island, Fiji beach.

Secluded sandbanks

Shallow, peaceful sandbanks perfect for wading, relaxing, or capturing scenic photos.

Aerial view of snorkelers exploring coral reefs, South Sea Cats, Fiji.

Shallow reef zones

Calm reef areas are ideal for easy snorkelling and spotting colourful tropical fish.

Boy jumping off catamaran into sea, South Sea Cats, Fiji.

Pristine swimming spots

Sheltered lagoons and clear waters for safe, refreshing swims.

Staff member holding tropical drinks at Castaway Island, Fiji.

Boutique island resorts

Scenic views of charming island resorts offering a glimpse of relaxed Fijian island life.

Your Fiji Cruise Itinerary

Morning: Begin with a smooth transfer to Port Denarau, then cruise across turquoise waters to your first island stop. Snorkel vibrant reefs, paddleboard in calm lagoons, or relax on deck and soak up the views.

Afternoon: Settle into island time with beach lounging or a beach club visit. Enjoy lunch onboard or on the island, then explore shallow reefs, sandbanks, and lagoons at your own pace.

Evening: Cruise back to Port Denarau as the day winds down, with transfers returning you to your hotel—relaxed, refreshed, and unhurried.

Best time to go on a Fiji Cruise

Family enjoying oversized chairs at South Sea Island, Fiji.
  • Weather: Warm tropical climate year-round; May to October brings the sunniest skies and calmest seas.
  • Events: Fiji Day in October and local cultural festivals add a unique twist to your cruise experience.
  • Crowds: Weekdays are generally quieter, while weekends and school holidays can be busier.
  • Time of Day: Morning departures are cooler, while afternoons offer calmer waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling.

How to get to your Fiji Cruise

Port Denarau

Port Denarau is the primary meeting point for all Fiji cruises, offering pre-booked round-trip transfers from nearby hotels and resorts for a smooth and stress-free start.

  • Address: Port Denarau Marina, Denarau Island, Nadi, Fiji | Find on the map
  • Nearby landmarks:
    • Denarau Golf & Racquet Club: 1 km, ~2 min drive
    • Denarau Shopping Village: 250 m, ~3 min walk
    • Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa: 400 m, ~5 min walk
    • Sheraton Fiji Resort: 400 m, ~5 min walk
Travelers on a coach to Mount Fuji, enjoying views of cherry blossoms.

All Fiji cruises include convenient pre-booked transfers to and from your hotel or resort, making your day trip stress-free and seamless.

  • Coverage: Hotels and resorts in Nadi, Denarau, Coral Coast, Momi Bay, Sonaisali, and nearby areas.
  • Pickup & drop-off: Guests are collected before departure and returned after the cruise.
  • Comfortable coaches: Modern, air-conditioned vehicles ensure a smooth ride.
  • Timing: Transfers are scheduled to align perfectly with your cruise itinerary.
  • Hassle-free: No need to arrange taxis or additional transport—everything is included in your ticket.
Cruise ship near South Sea Island, Fiji, with beach and palm trees in view.
  • High-speed vessels depart from Port Denarau Marina.
  • Ferry rides are included in your ticket.
  • Destinations include South Sea Island, Malamala Beach Club, Kuata Island, and other Mamanuca Islands.
  • Transfers are timed to match your cruise itinerary for a smooth, hassle-free journey.

Helpful tips

  • Bring swimwear, a towel, and a cover-up so you’re ready for swimming or lounging on the beach.
  • Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and preserve Fiji’s coral reefs.
  • Carry cash or a card for optional extras like food, drinks, or equipment rentals.
  • Secure valuables before boarding—keep jewelry, wallets, and other items safe.
  • Consider motion-sickness tablets if you’re prone to seasickness or have a sensitive stomach.
  • Check if your cruise includes lunch or drinks so you can plan accordingly and avoid surprises.
  • Bring a hat, sunglasses, and a light change of clothes to stay comfortable throughout the day.
  • Keep electronics in a waterproof bag to protect cameras, phones, and other gadgets from water damage.
  • Supervise children at all times, especially near water or on board the catamaran.
  • Confirm accessibility needs, if required, with the cruise operator ahead of time for a smooth experience.

Frequently asked questions about Fiji Cruises

Are there different ticket options available?

Yes, Fiji cruises offer a variety of tickets, including half-day and full-day trips, island day passes, snorkelling cruises, family-friendly experiences, and beach club visits. Inclusions vary by ticket type.

Are children allowed on Fiji cruises?

Yes, many cruises are family-friendly and welcome children, with select experiences designed specifically for younger travellers. Some beach club or adventure cruises may have age restrictions.

What sights can I see during the cruise?

Expect scenic views of the Mamanuca Islands, white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, sandbanks, and passing island resorts along the way.

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred cruise and timing.

What are the top attractions?

Mamanuca Islands, Malamala Beach Club, Kuata Island, sandbanks, coral reefs, and lagoons.

How long is the cruise?

Cruises run as half-day trips (4–5 hours) or full-day trips (7–8 hours), depending on the experience you choose.

Where does the cruise depart from?

All cruises depart from Port Denarau Marina, Fiji’s main gateway to the islands.

Do cruises include guided tours?

Some cruises include guided snorkelling or island commentary during a cruise, while others allow free exploration.

What should I wear?

Casual beachwear, swimwear, a cover-up, a hat, and sunglasses.

Are cruises wheelchair accessible?

Many cruises can accommodate mobility needs; check with the operator before booking.

Do I need snorkelling experience?

No, cruises are suitable for both beginners and experienced swimmers.

Is sunscreen provided?

No, please bring your own reef-safe sunscreen.

What is near Port Denarau Marina?

Restaurants, shops, resorts, and a golf course.

Can I extend my day on the island?

Some cruises offer optional activities, beach clubs, or watersports before returning.