Marinas, Anchoring, Things to Do, Provisioning and More in the Mamanuca Islands
Those dreamy islands with soft white sand and swaying coconut palms surrounded by sparkling waters: that’s the Mamanuca Islands.
Located just off the coast of Fiji‘s mainland, this stunning archipelago offers a sailor’s paradise with convenient access and island vibes aplenty.
You’ll find a scattering of resorts, many providing anchorages and welcoming yachties to sample their restaurants and activities.
Dedicated marinas and convenience stores make your stay here a breeze, ensuring you have everything you need for smooth sailing.
Drop anchor and join us as we navigate through this complete guide to the Mamanuca Islands of Fiji for yachties.
Table of Contents
5 Tips for Yachts Visiting the Mamanuca Islands
Here’s what you need to know about dropping anchor in the Mamanucas:
- Official clearance is a must. Private yachts can’t clear into Fiji via the Mamanuca Islands. All vessels arriving from international waters must first complete formal clearance at one of Fiji’s official ports of entry. You’ll find more details on this process in our The Complete Sailing Guide to Fiji.
- Marina options are limited but lovely. The Mamanuca Islands boast one popular marina with excellent facilities attached to a resort. Other anchorages are scattered across secluded islands, island resorts and floating bars. You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to picturesque spots to moor!
- Don’t miss the sailing regatta. Keep an eye out for the exciting sailing regatta at Musket Cove Marina, typically held in September. It’s a fantastic opportunity to mingle with fellow sailors and soak up the festive atmosphere.
- Stock up before you set sail. Provisioning is fairly limited in the Mamanucas, aside from a few resort convenience stores. We recommend stocking up on supplies on the mainland before you venture out to the islands.
- Respect local protocols. While there are limited villages in the Mamanuca Islands, it’s still crucial to familiarise yourself with local protocols for visiting villages and asking permission to anchor. A sevusevu (gift) is an important part of Fijian culture. Learn more about this and other customs in our guide to Fiji Village Customs & Traditions.
With these tips in mind, you’re all set to make the most of your yachting adventure in the Mamanuca Islands. The rest of this guide will dive deeper into what these charming islands have to offer.
© FijiPocketGuide.comCustoms and Clearance Process
When sailing to Fiji, it’s essential to know that private yachts cannot clear customs via the Mamanuca Islands.
All vessels arriving from international waters must first complete formal clearance at one of Fiji’s official ports of entry: Suva, Port Denarau, Vuda, Lautoka, Levuka, Savusavu or Rotuma.
The closest ports to the Mamanuca Group are Port Denarau, Vuda Marina and Lautoka, all located on the west coast of Fiji’s main island, Viti Levu.
For more details on the clearance process, check out The Complete Sailing Guide to Fiji.
© Tourism FijiThe Best Marinas and Anchorages in the Mamanuca Islands
The Mamanuca Islands are home to one of Fiji’s most renowned marinas, as well as a variety of stunning anchorages where you can explore the gorgeous islands, unique floating bars, and fabulous reefs for snorkelling and diving. Whether you’re looking to dock at a world-class marina or find a secluded spot to drop anchor, the Mamanucas provide an array of options to suit every seafarer’s needs.
Musket Cove Island Resort & Marina
Musket Cove Island Resort & Marina is a yachtie’s paradise in the heart of Fiji’s Mamanuca Islands. Nestled on Malolo Lailai, this marina offers essential services for sailors. Simply open a charge account at the marina office and you can use various spots around the resort (we’re talking general store, eateries, fuel dock and even the dive shop). They’re on VHF Channel 68 for berth queries, with the office open from 9 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 6 pm.
As for the rest of the facilities, you’ve got showers, token-operated laundry (no more smelly sailing gear!), rubbish disposal, and drinking water at a mere 10 cents per litre. Just remember, the waters around the marina are a marine sanctuary, so no fishing allowed.
When it comes to dining, you’re spoilt for choice. Fancy a casual BBQ? Head to the Island Bar, open from 10 am till late. For something a bit fancier, Dick’s Place Bistro & Bar serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner, with themed buffet nights to keep things interesting. There’s even a bottle shop with discounted bulk alcohol (we won’t tell if you don’t). And if you need some pampering after all that sailing, the spa’s open daily from 8 am to 5 pm. For the adventurous types, Subsurface Fiji offers diving services.
While the vibe is relaxed, do remember to keep it classy. Appropriate attire is a must in public areas, and respectful behaviour is expected.
Mamanuca Islands: Marina and Anchorages Quick Guide
Need the TLDR? Here’s a quick rundown of your marina and mooring options in the Mamanuca Islands.
© FijiPocketGuide.comThings to Do, How to Get Around and Provisioning
The Mamanuca Islands are all about indulgence and relaxation. Picture yourself lounging at stunning island resorts, each boasting luxurious amenities and breathtaking locations.
Fancy a unique experience? Don’t miss the floating bar, where you can let your hair down (quite literally) with a cocktail in hand. And since you’re in Fiji, after all, you can always go for a snorkel.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or pure relaxation, the Mamanucas have something special for everyone.
The Top Experiences in the Mamanuca Islands
What are the must-dos? Here are some of the Mamanuca highlights:
- Scuba dive at one of the 30 stunning dive sites
- Anchor the Cloud 9 or the Seventh Heaven floating bars
- Surf Cloudbreak and other epic reef breaks
- Hike to an island’s scenic viewpoint
- Visit a Fijian village
- Indulge in one of the Mamanucas’ island spas
- Get competitive with beach volleyball, golf, tennis and more…
… And the list continues over in our 10 Things to Do in the Mamanuca Islands for Yachties.
How to Get Around the Mamanuca Islands
Want to explore the Mamanucas without the hassle of steering? Regular ferries shuttle between the mainland and Malolo Lailai Island, as well as other picturesque spots in the archipelago.
For more flexibility, water taxis and tour operators are at your service to whisk you around these tropical gems.
You’ll find all the transport details you need in our Mamanuca Transport Guide.
Provisioning, Information, Shops and Services in the Mamanucas
Although the Mamanuca Islands are not a typical spot for provisioning, we’ve got you covered with a quick rundown of the best places to replenish your supplies.
For a comprehensive selection, head to the Trader General Store at Musket Cove Island Resort & Marina on Malolo Lailai Island. You’ll find everything from deli items and cheeses to frozen goods and fresh produce. On the same island, Plantation Island Resort offers a mini-mart for quick snacks and drinks. Over on Malolo Island, the RaRa Gourmet Deli at Six Senses Fiji is perfect for stocking up on gourmet items.
For more details on these provisioning spots and other essential services for yachties in the Mamanucas, don’t miss our comprehensive article, Yacht Provisioning: Shops & Services in the Mamanuca Islands.
© FijiPocketGuide.comClearing Out of the Mamanuca Islands
Yes, there are even formalities for leaving Fiji via a yacht, but note that you cannot clear out in the Mamanuca Islands.
You will need to berth your yacht at a Port of Entry and pay your port fees at the port office before proceeding with the Customs clearance procedures. You will need your inbound clearance papers, crew details, the details of your vessel and your next port of call. You must then leave Fiji within 24 hours.
For more advice on clearing out of Fiji, check out The Sailing Guide to Fiji.
More About Yachting in the Mamanuca Islands
That’s it for our guide to sailing in the Mamanuca Islands. For more information about yachting in Fiji, check out the following articles:
- 10 Best Things to Do in the Mamanuca Islands for Yachties
- Yacht Provisioning: Shops & Services in the Mamanuca Islands
- Where to Eat in the Mamanuca Islands: Guide for Yachties
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Sailing Guide to Fiji: Tips for Yachting in Fiji.
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 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])
- Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation (Tourism statistics - Updated [2025])
- SPTO (Pacific tourism 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])
- SV Soggy Paws (Sailing resource for the South Pacific)
- Ocean Posse (Mooring data for the South Pacific)
- Mamanuca Environment Society (Regional conservation website)
Our editorial standards: At Fiji Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.
