Yasawa Transport Guide: 8 Ways to Get to (& Around) the Yasawa Islands

Last Updated: 22 July, 2025

Transportation to the Yasawa Islands

Stretching north of Fiji’s mainland, the Yasawa Islands are an idyllic group of paradise islands that take a bit of work to get to. But you didn’t come to Fiji to stay in Nadi!

So jump on a hop-on-hop-off ferry, an all-inclusive cruise, a private boat charter or even your very own helicopter transfer, and you’ll arrive in paradise in no time!

To help sort out the logistics quickly (and to help you get onto “Fiji time” all the sooner), here’s a list of all the ways to get to the Yasawa Islands.

Want to know more about the Yasawa Islands? Start adding these 20 Best Things to Do in the Yasawa Islands to your “must-do” list!

1. Ferries – How to Get to the Yasawa Islands

The most popular way to get to the Yasawas is via one of the two ferries. Jump on the Awesome Adventures ferry (otherwise known as the Yasawa Flyer, run by South Sea Cruises) and travel on a high-speed catamaran departing from Port Denarau, Viti Levu (Fiji’s mainland).

Awesome Adventures also offers island-hopping passes where you can choose the length of your trip from five to 15 days. Plus, with daily departures, your transportation is sorted – all you have to do is pick and pay for your accommodation, meal packages and activities!

Can’t decide where to go? Get your pre-planned package, including the ferry, activities and accommodation, with Awesome Adventures. Awesome Adventures also offers hotel transfers from Nadi/Denarau to get you to Port Denarau, should you need them.

Alternatively, travel on the Tavewa Seabus from Lautoka, which offers shorter journey times to the Yasawa Islands, as well as cheaper rates. Rides on their smaller vessel can be bumpy at times, so if you have a weak stomach – try the other ferry.

Learn more about taking the ferry in Fiji in our complete guide, The Guide to Travelling in Fiji by Ferry.

Alternatively, more information about routes to the Yasawas can be found in How to Take the Ferry to the Yasawa Islands.

2. All-Inclusive Cruises – How to Get to and Around the Yasawa Islands

Blue Lagoon Cruises offers outstanding value with their all-inclusive cruises around the Yasawa Islands. These cruises provide ample onshore time, with most dinners served in authentic Fijian villages or picturesque beach locations.

Guests are treated to a complimentary sparkling wine and gift pack upon arrival, and all meals, a wide range of activities, and even laundry service are included.

The 7-night cruise is highly recommended, offering a more relaxed experience compared to the 4-night option, which involves a long boat ride to catch up with the cruise ship.

However, shorter cruises are ideal for time-constrained travellers. Activities include village visits, snorkelling, island hikes, and use of kayaks and SUP boards.

Cruises depart weekly from Port Denarau, Viti Levu. For more details, check out The Guide to Cruises Around Fiji.

Yasawa Transport Guide: 8 Ways to Get to (& Around) the Yasawa Islands

3. Seaplane or Helicopter – How to Get to the Yasawa Islands

Arrive in style and get breathtaking views of the Yasawas Islands with spectacular seaplanes or helicopter flights! Easy to hire from Denarau or Nadi Airport, Yasawa Island helicopter and seaplane transfer companies will be happy to discuss what sights you would like to see along the way.

Flight companies in Fiji are notoriously flexible! Although it is obviously one of the most expensive options on this list, the views are well worth it!

Check out your best options in The Complete Guide to Domestic Flights in Fiji. Plus, compare Helicopter Vs. Seaplane for Island Transfers in Fiji.

Yasawa Islands Transport Guide: 5 Ways to Get to the Yasawa Islands

4. Private Charters – How to Get to and Around the Yasawa Islands

If you are into fishing or have an itinerary of your own, the marinas around Nadi (Vuda and Naisoso Marinas) and Denarau (Port Denarau Marina) are filled with boats and skippers for hire. The most popular charter options are fishing charters, such as with Reel Fish Fiji, and sailing charters, such as with TradeWinds and Safari Charters Fiji.

After all, it’s a private hire so you’re in control. If you’re staying at a resort in the Yasawa Islands, you can also arrange a boat charter with your accommodation, which often has its own boat and skipper for its most elite guests.

For more about private charters, check out the 10 Best Fishing Charters in Denarau and 10 Best Sailing Charters in Fiji.

5. Water Taxis – How to Get to the Yasawa Islands

Head to any of the Yasawa Islands whenever it suits you with the Mamanuca Express or SeaFiji. These private water taxi services will get you to most islands in the Yasawa Group.

While faster and more convenient than taking the ferry, they are much pricier. Find out more in our complete guide on How to Catch a Water Taxi in Fiji.

6. Guided Tours – How to Get Around the Yasawa Islands

Exploring the stunning Yasawa Islands is made easy with guided tours offered by many resorts. These excursions are a fantastic way to discover the beauty of the archipelago and its surrounding waters.

You’ll find a variety of options, including snorkelling adventures, scuba diving expeditions, fishing trips, and visits to popular attractions like the mesmerising Sawa-i-Lau Caves.

Most resorts offer scheduled tours but don’t be shy about asking for something specific if you have a particular destination in mind. The friendly staff are usually more than happy to accommodate your wishes.

Remember, it’s always a good idea to book your tours in advance, especially during peak season.

For more information on what sort of boat tours are available (and with which resorts), check out The Best Day Trips from the Yasawa Islands and the 20 Best Things to Do in the Yasawa Islands.

7. Private Yachts – How to Get to the Yasawa Islands

The Yasawa Islands offer a paradise for private yacht enthusiasts, with numerous anchorages along both the east and west sides of the island chain. For those seeking shelter in rough weather, the Blue Lagoon anchorage at Matacawalevu is your best bet.

Other popular spots include the enchanting Sawa-i-Lau caves, the serene Vawa island, and both North and South Naviti. Waya island also provides excellent anchorages on its east and west coasts, depending on the wind direction.

While the Yasawas aren’t an official port of entry for Fiji, don’t let that deter you from your sailing adventure! You can easily arrange clearance at nearby Denarau or Vuda Marina before setting sail for the Mamanucas.

If you’re new to Fijian waters or simply want to ensure you’re well-prepared, we highly recommend checking out our comprehensive The Sailing Guide to Fiji. It’s brimming with essential tips and advice to make your yachting journey through the Mamanucas and beyond a smooth and unforgettable experience.

8. Skydive – How to Get to the Yasawa Islands

Yep, you’ve read it right. For an extra fee, skydiving companies can organise island landings for your jump in Fiji. After skydiving above the stunning landscapes of the Yasawas Islands, you will land on a golden-sand beach and be taken to your resort. What an entrance!

Your trip back to the mainland will be by boat though, so you will still get to cruise the Yasawas. Skydive pick-ups are available in Denarau and Nadi.

Check out more ways to experience Fiji to the extreme with The Best Places to Do Skydiving in Fiji.

More About Yasawa Islands Transport and Ways to Get to the Yasawa Islands

That’s it for our guide to Yasawa Islands transport and ways to get to the Yasawa Islands; for more information about travelling in Fiji, check out the following articles:

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in our Complete Guide to the Yasawa Islands.

Sources:

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across Fiji and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

Tourism Fiji (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
SPTO (Pacific tourism advice - Updated [2025])
Fiji Immigration (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2025])
Fiji Revenue & Customs Service (Customs and visitor taxes - Updated [2025])
Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (Biosecurity advice - Updated [2025])
Fiji Meteorological Service (Weather forecast and warnings - Updated [2025])
Fiji Bureau of Statistics (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2025])
Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation (Tourism statistics - Updated [2025])
Land Transport Authority (Road safety advice - Updated [2025])
Safe Travel (New Zealand travel advisory for Fiji - Updated [2025])
Smart Traveller (Australia travel advisory for Fiji - Updated [2025])
Travel.State.Gov (U.S. travel advisory for Fiji - Updated [2025])

Our editorial standards: At Fiji Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

Laura (Lora) S.

This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of Fiji Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in the South Pacific over 10 years ago with nothing but a backpack and a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to explore a paradise such as Fiji. She knows the islands inside-out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience Fiji’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also editor of several other South Pacific travel guides.

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