The Sailing Guide to Fiji© FijiPocketGuide.com
The Sailing Guide to Fiji

The Complete Sailing Guide to Fiji: Tips for Yachting in Fiji

© FijiPocketGuide.com
Last Updated: 13 June, 2025

What You Need to Know About Sailing in Fiji

The tropical waters and islands of Fiji make for some superb sailing grounds in the South Pacific. There’s a juxtaposition of islands waiting to be explored, from the luxury resort-scattered islands of the Mamanucas to the remote islands and villages of the Lau Group.

This sailing guide to Fiji will give you an overview of the sailing regions, as well as important information on customs clearance and local protocols for sailing.

If you are more interested in sailing cruises to explore the islands, check out the 10 Best Sailing Tours in Fiji.

Table of Contents

5 Quick Tips for Sailing in Fiji

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and unforgettable adventures, sailing in Fiji is an experience you won’t want to miss. These five quick tips will help you make the most of your nautical journey through this stunning South Pacific paradise.

  1. One of Fiji’s most developed sailing grounds is between Viti Levu, Vanua Levu and the Mamanuca Islands. The least developed are the Lau Islands.
  2. You must submit an Advanced Notification Form, known as a C2-C form, to Fiji Revenue & Customs at least 48 hours before your arrival.
  3. Be prepared with yaqona (kava root) to present at a sevusevu for villages, should you want to anchor at remote islands, like the Lau or Lomaiviti.
  4. Safe anchorages for the cyclone season can be found at Savusavu, Vanua Levu.
  5. Before setting sail to explore the rest of Fiji, you’ll need to obtain a cruising permit. This process typically takes one to three working days (or longer over weekends), so plan your itinerary accordingly.

For more details and tips for Fiji’s top sailing destinations, head over to the Fiji Yachting Guide.

The Sailing Guide to Fiji© FijiPocketGuide.com

Where to Sail in Fiji

Fiji covers a whopping 18,376 km² (7,095 mi²) of the South Pacific with 333 islands. For sailing, there are five main regions from the comfortable and developed Mamanuca Islands to the remote and adventurous Lau Islands.

Sailing in the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands

Outside of Viti Levu, Fiji’s main island, the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands are the most frequented by holidaymakers. The islands are a mix of developed islands with resorts, as well as uninhabited islands and islands with villages.

The Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands provide something for everyone with idyllic beaches, snorkelling, diving, fishing, kayaking, island hiking and visiting resorts. There are anchorages at Malolo Lailai and Qalito islands in the Mamanucas and Matacawalevu, Sawa-i-Lau, Vawa, Naviti and Waya islands in the Yasawas.

Learn more about visiting these islands in A Sailing Guide to the Mamanuca Islands and A Sailing Guide to the Yasawa Islands.

Sailing in Kadavu

The waters between the islands of Kadavu and Beqa, the southern part of Fiji, are known as the Astrolabe Lagoon.

It is customary to present a sevusevu to the chiefly village on Dravuni Island before sailing in this area.

The islands have a good selection of beaches and excellent diving for experienced divers. Yachties might also want to take their tenders up to see the Kadavu Waterfall from Kadavu Village on the southern side of the island.

Find out more in A Sailing Guide to Kadavu: Anchorages, Clearance & More.

Sailing in Vanua Levu and Taveuni

In the northern reaches of Fiji are the large islands of Vanua Levu and Taveuni, both known for their areas of natural beauty and amazing scuba diving reefs.

Most yachties will enter the region via Savusavu on the south coast of Vanua Levu, an official entry port. There are several marinas and yacht services here, which you can read up on in A Sailing Guide to Savusavu: Marinas, Things to Do & More.

Further along on the southeastern coast of Vanua Levu, good anchorage can be found at Viani Bay and Buca Bay, while across the Somosomo Strait at Vatudamu Bay and the Paradise Taveuni Resort on Taveuni and the Rainbow Reef are other good options.

Aside from visiting the islands’ villages, beaches, resorts and reserves, some of the outer islands are worth a sail to, including Kioa and Rabi where displaced South Pacific Islanders present a unique culture in Fiji.

Learn more about this area in A Sailing Guide to Taveuni: Moorings, Anchorages & More.

Sailing in the Lomaiviti Islands

Just off the eastern coast of Viti Levu, it offers some interesting dive sites for serious divers in the Vatu-i-Ra Channel. The most popular island to visit is Ovalau, with the UNESCO site of Levuka town, the first capital of Fiji.

Yachties shouldn’t miss the opportunity to reach the less-visited islands of Makogai, which has a turtle and giant clam conservation sanctuary, a good anchorage, and the remains of a leprosarium. Gau Island is also worth an anchorage stay and boasts some good dive sites.

Learn more in The Complete Guide to the Lomaiviti Islands.

Sailing in the Lau Islands

The less-visited islands in Fiji, the Lau Islands, are a sailor’s paradise with a scattering of around 57 islands across the central to the eastern reaches of Fiji.

These islands have almost no tourism infrastructure, giving yachties a sense of the true South Pacific.

Note that you must first report to a port of entry before sailing in the Lau Islands, the closest being Savusavu in Vanua Levu.

Learn more about these islands in A Sailing Guide to the Lau Islands: Anchorages, Clearance & More.

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Clearing Customs for Yachts in Fiji

The Fiji Revenue and Customs requires that all yachts arriving in Fiji from overseas submit an Advance Notification form, known as the C2-C Form, at least 48 hours prior to their estimated time of arrival (ETA). This same 48-hour notice must also be given to the Ports Authority, Department of Immigration, Health and Biosecurity.

Ports of Entry in Fiji

The ports of entry to Fiji are as follows:

  • Port Denarau Marina, Viti Levu
  • Lautoka, Viti Levu
  • Vuda Marina, Viti Levu
  • Suva, Viti Levu
  • Savusavu, Vanua Levu
  • Levuka, Ovalau Island
  • Rotuma
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Yacht Clearance Process

On arrival at any port of entry in Fiji, yachts must fly the yellow Q flag and contact Port Control (usually VHF 16), which will usually ask you to swap to the relevant channel with the requested marina and/or put you in contact with Port Health, Agriculture Quarantine (Biosecurity), Immigration and finally Customs for Clearance upon arrival. Officials will enter the yacht for you to present the following documents:

  • Completed Inward Report (including two copies of the crew and passengers lists)
  • Completed Passenger Arrival Card
  • Valid passports
  • Clearance papers from the last port
  • Valid outward airline ticket if crew/passenger is disembarking at the port of entry and leaving the country by air.

See the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service website for more information.

Note that Customs Clearance facilities are available from 8 am to 4 pm, Monday to Friday only. Weekend and public holiday clearances are permitted; however, overtime fees will be charged by the relevant government agencies. We advise avoiding arriving on a weekend or public holiday.

Immigration

Citizens from selected countries get a free four-month Visitor Visa upon entry into Fiji, established by completing the Passenger Arrival Card. Part of the Passenger Arrival Card will be detached and given back to you, which you need to keep, as it will be required for Immigration again when departing Fiji.

Learn more about immigration in Fiji in Do You Need a Visa to Visit Fiji?

Clearance Fees

  • Fiji Revenue and Customs – FREE (Although an overtime charge of FJ$150 applies for clearances during lunch hour (1 pm-2 pm), weekends, public holidays and after hours.)
  • Fiji Immigration Department – FREE (unless a visa is required)
  • Biosecurity Authority – approximately FJ$200
  • Fiji Ministry of Health – approximately FJ$170
  • Marina Berthing Charges – FJ$30-$75 per night.

Departure Clearance

Yes, there are even formalities for leaving Fiji via a yacht, starting with advising Fiji Revenue and Customs at least 24 hours before your intended departure. 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.

The Sailing Guide to Fiji© FijiPocketGuide.com

Restrictions and Protocols for Sailing in Fiji

Aside from the government protocols for sailing in Fiji, there are some cultural ones that you also need to be aware of.

Sevusevu Protocol

For many anchorages and sailing grounds in Fiji, it is customary to present a gift to the overseeing village, known as a sevusevu. This is typically yaqona (kava roots), but some remote islands may also appreciate gifts from basic stores, schoolbooks, stationery, and school and medical supplies.

It is recommended that you have enough yaqona for the number of villages and village anchorages you intend to use. Yaqona (pronounced “yang-o-na” or just ask for “kava”) can be purchased from the main markets in Lautoka, Nadi and Savusavu (the closest towns to the official ports of entry).

Check out Fiji Village Etiquette: What to Do When Visiting a Fijian Village for more information.

Marine Reserves and MPAs

Marine reserves and marine protected areas (MPAs) are areas where you cannot fish or take any marine life from the area.

While Fiji has a small number of marine reserves, such as the Namena Marine Reserve, Kiuva “Koula-Mai-Wai” Marine Reserve and Naiqoro Passage Marine Reserve, there are many marine protected areas, especially around resort islands. See a full list of MPAs in Fiji at The Guide to Ecotourism in Fiji.

How to Swim Sustainably With the Manta Rays

Best practices for swimming with manta rays centre on maintaining respectful and sustainable interactions to protect these gentle giants and their natural behaviour. When entering the water, do so quietly and calmly, keeping an initial distance of at least 10 metres to avoid disturbing them.

Ensure your fins remain below the water’s surface to minimise splashing that could startle the rays. Swimmers should never approach closer than 3 metres and must never attempt to chase or touch a manta ray.

Always approach from the side, giving the animal a clear and unobstructed path to swim freely.

Scuba Diving Etiquette:

  • Hover low and stay to the side of cleaning stations.
  • Avoid swimming directly over or through these sites.
  • Never block the manta ray’s path.

General Snorkelling Etiquette:

  • Keep a minimum five-foot distance from all marine wildlife.
  • Do not stand on or kick coral.
  • Avoid shallow reefs to protect both yourself and the ecosystem.
  • Do not touch any marine life.
  • Use reef-safe sunscreen or UV-protective clothing.
  • Enter and exit the water gently to minimise environmental impact.
  • Collect ocean plastic if spotted while snorkelling to help reduce marine pollution.

The Main Anchorages and Marinas in Fiji

What’s that? All of Fiji’s main marinas and anchorages in one easy-to-follow table?! That’s right, and it even includes contact details. You’re welcome.

Anchorage/Marina NameAnchorage/Marina DescriptionAnchorage Location (GPS Coordinates or Contact Info)
Port Denarau MarinaMarina berths (52) & swing moorings (16)+679 675 0600; [email protected], http://www.denaraumarina.com
Vuda Marina (Vuda Point)Marina berths (150), cyclone pits (90) & hardstand spaces (60)+679 666 8214; [email protected], http://www.vudamarina.com.fj
Royal Suva Yacht Club (RSYC)Swing moorings; limited dock space+679 331 2921
The Pearl Resort Marina (Pacific Harbour)Marina berths (≈10) with basic services+679 773 0022, http://www.thepearlsouthpacific.com/en/marina
Levuka Wharf (Port of Levuka)Town wharf & anchorage (Port of Entry)+679 344 0189 (Levuka Port Office)
Musket Cove Island Resort & MarinaMarina berths (10) & mooring buoys (26)+679 666 2215, http://www.musketcovefiji.com/yacht-club-marina
Nanuya Island Resort (Blue Lagoon)Mooring buoys & anchorage (visiting yachts welcome)+679 603 0902; [email protected] (Resort)
Copra Shed Marina (Savusavu)Marina berths (~30) & swing moorings+679 885 0457
Savusavu Marina (Waitui)Swing moorings (≈20, cyclone-rated)+679 885 3031 / +679 997 2558, http://www.savusavumarina.com
Nawi Island MarinaMarina berths (132, incl. superyacht berths)+679 885 3033, http://www.nawiisland.com
Paradise Taveuni ResortMooring buoys (9 free for guests/visitors)+679 888 0125; [email protected], http://www.paradiseinfiji.com
Taveuni Dive Resort (Taveuni Estates)Mooring buoys (2–3; for visiting yachts)+679 891 1063; [email protected], http://www.taveunidiveresort.com
Laucala Island MarinaPrivate resort marina (limited berths)+679 888 0077
Kokomo Private Island (Yaukuve Levu, Kadavu Group)Private dock & anchorage (resort guests only)+679 776 4441; [email protected]
Royal Exploring Isles Yacht Squadron (Bavatu Harbour)Anchorage with limited private mooringsN/A (Caretaker managed)

Viti Levu Anchorages

Anchorage/Marina NameAnchorage/Marina DescriptionAnchorage Location (GPS Coordinates or Contact Info)
Royal Suva Yacht ClubMajor marina in Suva offering moorings, slips, dinghy dock, fuel, laundry, chandlery, showers, and bar. Temporary membership required.[email protected]
Suva Anchorage (Novotel Bay)Very protected anchorage near Novotel, northwest of RSYC. Solid holding in 6 m mud. Close to police boats for added security.18°06.58S / 178°23.76E
Pacific Harbour AnchorageTight and shallow river entrance, no marina. Local liveaboard “Charlie” may offer dock space. Strong tidal current.[email protected]
Port Denarau MarinaFiji’s largest full-service marina with haul-out, fuel dock, shops, restaurants, and customs clearance. Access card required for facilities.[email protected]
Yakuilau Island AnchorageCalm alternative to Denarau anchorage behind Yakuilau Island. Long dinghy ride to shore but well-protected from swell.17°45.812S / 177°21.805E
Marina NaisosoSmall, modern marina with floating docks. Mostly leisure boats. No showers or laundry. Entry advised only at high tide.[email protected]
Vuda Point MarinaPopular cyclone-season marina with haul-out, chandlery, fuel, restaurants, and workshop access. Berths fill fast; reserve in advance.[email protected]
Saweni BayWell-known calm anchorage near Lautoka. Mud bottom with good holding. Beach landings possible. Close to Vuda Point.17°36.000S / 177°25.000E
Bekana IslandAnchorage near Lautoka with ferry access and resort onshore. Some moorings in use. Dinghy dock may require $5 fee.17°35.5078S / 177°26.7641E
Volivoli PointAnchorage with good holding in mud. Cruiser-friendly resort nearby with no fee to go ashore. Scenic northern coastline of Viti Levu.17°18.844S / 178°10.370E

Mamanuca Islands Anchorages

Anchorage/Marina NameAnchorage/Marina DescriptionAnchorage Location (GPS Coordinates or Contact Info)
Musket Cove MarinaFull-service marina and anchorage with access to shops, fuel, showers, laundry, pool, restaurants and bars. Moorings available; call ahead on VHF 68.[email protected]
East Side Malolo IslandAnchorage between Malolo and Malolo Lailai in 16 m sand. Less crowded than Musket but known for being rolly.17°45.604S / 177°11.839E
Seventh Heaven AnchorageAnchorage near overwater restaurant. Landing fee applies. Great for lunch stop or dinghy visit with snorkelling nearby.17°47.827S / 177°11.463E
Cloud 9 / Roro ReefMultiple sand-bottom anchorages around floating bar. Stunning visibility and popular snorkelling area. Depths from 3.5–10 m.17°47.4869S / 177°07.967E
Namotu IslandAnchorage near the surf break. Limited space. Private island—no shore access allowed.17°50.477S / 177°10.932E
Qalito Island (Castaway Resort)Day anchorage in 20 m sand west of island. Welcoming to cruisers. Not the real Cast Away film location.
Mociu IslandPrivate honeymoon island owned by Likuliku Resort. Good snorkelling, but no shore access permitted.17°41.3083S / 177°08.859E
Waidigi IslandPrivate island, often referred to as “Google Island.” Anchoring is possible, but shore access and swimming are prohibited.17°45.131S / 177°08.580E
Mana IslandAnchorage within the lagoon near resorts. Clearly marked curved entrance. Anchor between bommies with care. Sevusevu not required.17°41.078S / 177°06.794E
Monuriki Island (Cast Away Island)Famous film location. Anchoring permitted only after doing sevusevu on Yanuya Island and paying FJD $20 per person.
Tokoriki IslandAnchorage in front of resort is not permitted. Resort staff may ask boats to move or use designated mooring.

Yasawa Islands Anchorages

Anchorage/Marina NameAnchorage/Marina DescriptionAnchorage Location (GPS Coordinates or Contact Info)
Likuliku Bay (Octopus Resort, Waya)Sandy-bottomed anchorage in front of Octopus Resort. Good holding and protection, but keep clear of ferry path. Dinghy access marked by floats.17°16.553S / 177°06.263E
Blue Lagoon (Nanuya Lailai)Busy anchorage between Nanuya Lailai and Matacawa Levu with resort access and nearby underwater caves. Watch for bommies.16°56.575S / 177°21.836E
Nacula Island (Blue Lagoon Resort)Anchorage in marine protected bay in front of Blue Lagoon Resort. No fishing or spearfishing permitted. Resort is cruiser-friendly.16°53.466S / 177°24.588E
Sawa-i-Lau (Underwater Caves)Anchorage near limestone caves. Sevusevu with Nabukeru village required. Famous site from the film “The Blue Lagoon.”16°50.496S / 177°27.894E
Drawaqa Island (Manta Rays)Access via Cuvu Bay. Popular for snorkelling with manta rays. Reef between Drawaqa and Naviti is not passable by boat.
Naviti Island (WW2 Plane Wreck Bay)Day anchorage near a WWII airplane wreck in shallow water. Snorkelling and friendly village nearby.17°05.540S / 177°17.391E
Viwa IslandRemote anchorage off Naibalebale village. Access through narrow reef passes. Rarely visited with friendly locals.
Kuata IslandAnchorage near Barefoot Kuata Resort. Offers a lovely beach and hiking trail to caves with summit views.17°21.958S / 177°07.973E
Naukacuvu IslandAnchorage on NE side of island in sand. Watch for wind, wave and current interactions. Nearby alternative anchorage has better conditions.17°11.691S / 177°10.597E
Yasawa Island (South)Anchorage at southern end of Yasawa Island. Remote, peaceful and with easy access to village experiences.16°49.226S / 177°27.881E
Yasawa Island (Yasawairara)Northern anchorage in shell sand. Among the best beaches in the Yasawas, excellent holding and calm waters.16°42.557S / 177°34.574E

Beqa Anchorages

Anchorage/Marina NameAnchorage/Marina DescriptionAnchorage Location (GPS Coordinates or Contact Info)
Malumu Bay (Beqa)Deep, protected anchorage with excellent mud holding in 5 m. Very calm with lush hillsides, except in northerly winds.18°23.223S / 178°09.126E
East Frigates PassAnchorage in 6 m of sand with access to surf break. Less bommies closer to shore. Good for day anchorage or overnight in calm weather.18°28.1330S / 177°56.6146E
Yanuca Island – Central AnchorageAnchorage in 6–8 m with coral and sand bottom. Good protection from trade winds with patchy sand areas requiring careful approach.18°22.624S / 177°59.284E
Yanuca Island – Alternative AnchorageSlightly deeper patch in 8.5 m. Some coral rubble, but anchor held with plenty of scope. Light winds and minimal swell.18°22.641S / 177°59.228E
Yanuca Island – Coral-Friendly AnchorageCoral-conscious anchoring area. Requires visual guidance or dinghy scout. Good protection in 4–10 m with light trade winds.18°22.654S / 177°59.317E
Yanuca Island – Google Anchored SpotAnchored with satellite imagery. Reasonable protection. Suitable for monohulls in patchy sand/coral conditions.18°22.55’S / 177°59.36’E

Lomaiviti Anchorages

Anchorage/Marina NameAnchorage/Marina DescriptionAnchorage Location (GPS Coordinates or Contact Info)
Levuka (Ovalau)Anchorage directly in front of town in 30 ft mud bottom. Exposed to SE winds, but convenient for customs and provisions. Dinghy access via tuna cannery pier.17°40.929’S / 178°50.158’E
South Ovalau – Hurricane HoleSheltered anchorage option south of Levuka, though not fully protected. Used during poor weather as a safer option than town anchorage.17°44.09S / 178°45.99E
Caqalai IslandAnchorage off small Methodist-owned island with rustic accommodations. Calm and friendly stop between Levuka and Suva.17°44.15S / 178°43.80E
Toberua IslandAnchorage off manicured resort on reefy area between Ovalau and Viti Levu. Offers restaurant, diving and staff hospitality.17°58.58S / 178°42.17E
Makogai Island – Dalice BayDeep anchorage in marine protected bay near clam farm. Sevusevu with staff. Remains of old leper colony and dive sites nearby.17°26.322S / 178°57.232E
Naigani IslandWell-sheltered anchorage in sand and clay bottom. Scenic and calm even in strong wind. Popular rest stop en route to Ovalau.17°34.306S / 178°40.647E
Wainaloka (Ovalau)Deep, protected anchorage surrounded by mangroves. Accessible via mangrove tunnel. Village offers traditional welcome ceremonies.17°44.230S / 178°46.104E
Koro Island – Dere BayAnchorage with some bommies not visible on satellite charts. Deep water with good holding. Quiet and scenic setting.17°16.436S / 179°21.628E
Gau Island – Bay of AngelsAnchorage near manta ray area. Entry via Wakaciva pass. Sevusevu required at Sawieke village. World-class diving nearby.

Savusavu and Vanua Levu Anchorages

Anchorage/Marina NameAnchorage/Marina DescriptionAnchorage Location (GPS Coordinates or Contact Info)
Savusavu (Copra Shed Marina)Full-service marina offering moorings, entry clearance support, showers, provisioning nearby and vibrant cruiser community.[email protected]
Waitui MarinaSimple mooring area with basic dinghy dock and bar. Staff can assist with formalities and launch service.[email protected]
Savusavu MarinaPrivate marina south of Copra Shed with long-term berth options. Dinghy access, moorings and haul-out nearby.[email protected]
Nawi Island MarinaModern full-service marina on Nawi Island offering berths, moorings, fuel, water and customs support.[email protected]
Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort AnchorageAnchorage near Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, calm in prevailing winds with easy access to snorkelling. No shore access unless using the resort.[email protected]
Rokocivia BayQuiet bay offering good shelter and scenic views, but no facilities. Often used as a stopover.
NamenaWell-known anchorage near Namena Marine Reserve. Great for diving but exposed in some conditions.
Nabouwalu / Coconut PointNext to ferry terminal with easy access to shore, but occasional surge. Used as a stopover between passages.
Bua Bay (Lekubi Point)Large calm bay with room for multiple boats, good holding. No major facilities.
Yadua IslandSheltered spot near a traditional village. Sevusevu required. Remote and peaceful with coral nearby.
Yadua TabaAnchoring prohibited. Island is protected by the National Trust and closed to visitors.
Viani Bay AnchorageSheltered spot with access to Viani Bay Resort, which can provide meals, scuba diving activities, transport for provisioning and more.[email protected]

Taveuni Anchorages

Anchorage/Marina NameAnchorage/Marina DescriptionAnchorage Location (GPS Coordinates or Contact Info)
Paradise Taveuni ResortResort on the southwest coast of Taveuni offering 10 free moorings and access to showers, restaurant, fuel, and PADI dive services for visiting cruisers.[email protected]
Laucala Island MarinaPrivate resort marina (limited berths)+679 888 0077
Taveuni Dive Resort (Taveuni Estates)Mooring buoys (2–3; for visiting yachts)+679 891 1063; [email protected]
Vurevure BaySpacious bay on the east coast with a mooring buoy behind pearl farm buoys. Protected from SE swell but filled with coral, so navigation must be cautious.16°47.786S / 179°50W
Naselesele Point / MateiAnchorage near Matei and Taveuni Airport with access to town. Rolly at times but offers several sandy patches between bommies.16°41.583’S / 179°53.701’W
Waiyevo / SomosomoAnchor well south of Korolevu Island to avoid bommies. Basic provisions and hardware available ashore.
Namata Bay (Qamea)Friendly and welcoming anchorage known for bommies and calm conditions. Visitors are welcomed by the Mitchell family and encouraged to sign the guest book.16°44.739’S / 179°46.338’W
Naiviivi Bay (Qamea)Scenic and calm anchorage with several bommies and shoaling areas. Requires careful entry using satellite images.16°45.8506S / 179°46.8583W
Matagi Island (Horseshoe Bay)Private anchorage near boutique resort. Stunning setting with excellent diving nearby. Permission required to go ashore.16°43.822S / 179°44.668W
Albert’s Cove (Rabi Island)Protected anchorage on Rabi’s north side. Good snorkelling and shelter from trade winds. No village, but daily longboat traffic.16°26.811S / 179°56.392W
Elizabeth Cove (Rabi Island)Anchorage near a small village on Rabi with superb snorkelling and friendly children. Vodafone reception available.16°27.594S / 179°57.975W
Catherine Bay (Rabi Island)Quiet bay with 10 m depth. Large church visible on shore. Use caution due to uncharted reefs.16°31.607S / 179°59.426W
Kioa IslandAnchorage within the reef, surrounded by reef on three sides. Local Tuvaluan community known for artisanal fishing.
Viani Bay Anchorage (Vanua Levu)Sheltered spot across the Somosomo Strait with access to Viani Bay Resort, which can provide meals, scuba diving activities, transport for provisioning and more.[email protected]

Kadavu Anchorages

Anchorage/Marina NameAnchorage/Marina DescriptionAnchorage Location (GPS Coordinates or Contact Info)
Muani Village / Yauravu BayAnchorage east of Muani with deep sand bottom. Calm spot for northern wind conditions. Sevusevu is required in nearby villages.19°09.346S / 178°07.337E
Cape Washington (Denham Island)Beautiful bay near abandoned resort. Coral heads and shifting winds make this anchorage better suited for short stays.19°07.660S / 177°57.048E
Talaulia BaySouth of Taiwava village. Well-protected from SE winds. Quiet bay with no major services, but scenic coastal views.19°06.084S / 178°00.572E
SoladamuAnchorage with sevusevu and local produce available. Calm waters and welcoming village on the north coast.19°04.250S / 178°06.900E
VuniseaAnchorage in front of Kadavu’s fuel dock and close to airport. Some yacht services and market available.19°02.911S / 178°09.262E
Naigoro BayPopular anchorage near the marine reserve. Entry requires sevusevu at Naigoro village. Well-protected in sticky mud.19°00.368S / 178°28.553E
Matasawelevu (Ucuna Naigoro Bay)Anchorage behind reef offering protection from trade winds. Calm in 16–20 m sand and mud. Entry requires care.19°00.296S / 178°28.625E
Vatululu BayAnchorage in 23 m of mud. Not well charted in Navionics; best entered using satellite imagery.19°00.411S / 178°28.629E
Korolevu (Vaca Levu)Nice anchorage reached via Korolevu Pass. Strong incoming tide possible. Caution with reefs entering.19°01.344S / 178°24.456E
Vonobia IslandAnchored in mud. Sheltered bay with mangrove channels and scenic beach. Good protection, though coral condition is mixed.19°02.720S / 178°19.365E
North Bay / Soso Pass SandbarAnchorage in sandbar area, suitable for multiple boats. Great snorkelling and good holding in 7–9 m of sand.19°03.018S / 178°19.003E
Kokomo Private Island (Yaukuve Levu, Kadavu Group)Private dock & anchorage (resort guests only)+679 776 4441; [email protected]
Matava Eco Adventure ResortAnchorage in sandy area between the resort and offshore island. Best to call ahead.+679 603 0685; [email protected]
Oneta ResortAnchorage near the resort. Best to call ahead.+679 773 5288; [email protected]

Lau Islands Anchorages

Anchorage/Marina NameAnchorage/Marina DescriptionAnchorage Location (GPS Coordinates or Contact Info)
Daliconi, Vanua BalavuPopular entry anchorage with direct access from Adavaci Pass. Clear of hazards, near village where sevusevu is required.17°11.376S / 179°00.714W
Bay of Islands, Vanua BalavuScenic group of islets with multiple calm, protected anchorages ideal for kayaking and exploration.
Bavatu Harbour, Vanua BalavuSecure anchorage with floating dock, hiking access to plantation and viewpoint. Dinghy pass at high tide.17°10.950S / 179°01.600W
Susui IslandWell-sheltered anchorage east of Vanua Balavu with a marine reserve, friendly locals and internet coverage.17°20.454S / 178°56.975W
Fulaga LagoonMultiple anchorages throughout the lagoon including cyclone hole and artisan village access. Sevusevu and FJD $50 required.19°08.955’S / 178°33.973’W
Kabara IslandSand patch anchorage with surrounding reef, near hill climb and village. Exposed in easterlies.18°55.638’S / 178°58.289’W
LakebaGood holding in anchorage within reef indent. Airport access, useful as a jumping-off point for the Lau group.18°12.675S / 178°50.199W
OneataScenic but exposed anchorage with sand bottom and some swell. Access to villages via footpaths across island.18°26.017S / 178°28.881W
Ogea IslandShallow sandy anchorage inside northern pass. Long dinghy ride to the village for sevusevu.19°08.481’S / 178°24.864’W
Avea IslandAnchor in sand on NW side of island. Some roll at high tide. Snorkelling and diving available nearby.17°11.007’S / 178°54.421’W
Komo IslandSandy-bottomed anchorage, easy entrance via east pass. Sevusevu required, village on opposite side of island.18°40.663S / 178°37.538W

Rotuma and Remote Anchorages

Anchorage/Marina NameAnchorage/Marina DescriptionAnchorage Location (GPS Coordinates or Contact Info)
Rotuma IslandRemote northern island with anchorage advised at 12°29.256S / 177°07.273E. Approach with care to avoid reef north of the anchorage. Not always tenable depending on wind and swell direction.12°29.256S / 177°07.273E
Rotuma – NE AnchorageReported as heavily rolly with NE wind and swell; not recommended in such conditions. Alternative southwest anchorage is suggested if conditions allow.
Cukuvou Harbour (Yadua Island)Sheltered bay with multiple beaches and excellent holding. Access through clearly visible pass. Enjoy coral reefs and scenic hillsides.16°49.058S / 178°16.996E
Navi Laca Bay (Yadua Island)Anchorage with 15 m depth over sand. Narrow pass with good visibility and beautiful surroundings.16°48.913S / 178°19.532E
Bua BayHuge, protected bay on the northwest corner of Vanua Levu. Depths between 30–50 ft. Surrounded by mangroves.16°51.000S / 178°35.000E
Totoya Island (Crater Anchorage)Crater bay anchorage with very deep water. Alternative anchorage on north coast offers better protection and easier conditions.18°58.094’S / 179°53.069’W
Namara IslandBeautiful sand-bottom anchorage in 5 m. Light NE winds and scattered bommies present; calm conditions advised.18°47.242S / 178°29.731E
Naquaiquai CreekAnchorage in front of a cruiser-friendly local hut with Starlink internet. Excellent wind protection and 20 ft depth.16°43.259’S / 179°53.429’E

More About Sailing in Fiji

That’s it for our guide to sailing in Fiji; for more information about exploring the islands by boat, check out the following articles:

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in the Fiji Yachting Guide.

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:

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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