Australia’s favourite resort destination in the South Pacific, Fiji is also a stellar cruise spot. Both Suva and Nadi offer lively markets, bars and restaurants and a taste of island life, but the real action happens on the outer islands. If your ship doesn’t call at any smaller ports, organise a day trip to head further afield. Mid-size ships will cruise to the western edge of the country and the remote, rugged and largely unpopulated Yasawa Islands. Other ports like Savusavu, on the island of Vanua Levu, or Dravuni Island will give you your beach day fix. The Fijians are renowned for their friendly, welcoming nature and you’re sure to be greeted with a charming ‘bula!’ everywhere you go.
Who goes there: Carnival, Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas, Royal Caribbean and Silversea.
Cruisers like: Living on ‘Fiji time’. Everything runs a little slower in Fiji and the locals are happy to take their time with even the simplest request. Travellers love it because it gives them the chance to take off their watch, switch off their phone and truly chill out. In Suva highlights include the kava trading floor (part of the municipal markets), Fiji Museum, Little India and Colo-i-Suva Forest Park, while Nado offers a bustling handicraft market, the elaborate Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple and a good range of cafes, restaurants and bars – plus a couple of beaches.
Best for: Families, couples, beach lovers, swimmers and snorkelers.
Getting around: In ports such Nadi and Suva taxis are plentiful and cheap, or if you want to sample local life you can hop in a minivan or climb onto the back of a local truck. On the islands you’ll just have to walk the short distance from the jetty to your deck chair.
