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THE SACRED ISLANDS

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About the Sacred Islands

The Narokorokoyawa Sacred Islands are situated to the north-west of the Mamanuca Islands and south of the Yasawa Islands.

Fiji had no written language prior to contact with Europeans and the country’s history is based on legends that have been passed down from generation to generation. For the villagers of Tavua (who guard and protect the Sacred Islands), the culture and history of Fiji began with the arrival of Rogovaka – a great war canoe carrying the first Fijians – Tui Na Revurevu and his people – to the islands of Fiji. They landed on the largest of a small group of islands, known today as the Norokorokoyawa Sacred Islands. Two of the islands are named after parts of the canoe “Nai Raviravi n uli” (steering oar rack) and “Musumusu Ni Karikari” (cutter for spar boom).

Tui Na Revurevu settled on the largest of the islands, Vanua Levu, and built his fortress, the remains of which can still be seen today at the sight of the sacred village. Navanualevu is the site of the Sacred Caves which became the centre of ceremonies and rituals of the chief priest. Tui Na Revurevu’s sacred pool, where it is forbidden to swim, is located on the other side of Navanualevu behind the sand cay. The second group of settlers realised the Narokorokoyawa islands had already been settled and sailed on until finally arriving at Vuda (meaning source) on the main island of Viti Levu.

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Regarded as the birthplace of Fijian culture, the Narokorokoyawa islands have remained sacred and all visitors pay respect by presenting yaqona or kava at the sacred caves. Tongan missionaries arrived here in the early 1800’s and since they did not follow the protocol they were taken into the cave and were never heard of again.

Scientists believe the islands of Fiji were settled over 3,500 years ago by the people of South East Asia as they migrated east through the Indonesian archipelago, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu and Solomon Islands.

The Five Islands or Narokorokoyawa

  • Vanua Levu (not to be confused with its larger cousin to the north of the main island)

  • Eori

  • Navadra

  • Nai raviravi ni ui (steerings oar rack)

  • Musumusu ni karikari (cutter for spar boom) also known as Camel Rock

Permission to visit the islands has been granted exclusively to Captain Cook Cruises. Experience them on our 3 & 7 night Southern Yasawa Island Cruises.

Experiences

CRUISE ITINERARY

Day 1 - Saturday

NUKU-I-MANA Welcome Aboard!  Set sail over lunch through the beautiful Mamanuca islands past many famous resorts collecting some additional passengers, before arriving for a snorkel from a sand cay and discover the vista of a South Pacific sunset.  Tonight book your preferred time early for our a-la-carte Dinner.

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Day 2 - Sunday

MONURIKI – MONU BAY Reef Endeavour cruises to idyllic Monoriki where Tom Hanks’ Castaway was filmed. Explore this natural film set on a guided kayak tour and explore idyllic Monu Island for snorkelling before a special village choral service.  The beautiful harmonies of the village choir will simply delight you.  This evening join the entertainment of our Sunday Show.

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Day 3 - Monday

SACRED ISLANDS - WAYA ISLANDS The Sacred Island is a place beautiful beyond belief.  Legends tell of the great war canoe `Rogoboka' which landed here with the first Fijians.  On arrival the ship's crew pay tribute to the forefathers of Fijian culture and perform the Sevusevu (gift giving) ceremony.  Spend a magical morning swimming in the aquamarine lagoons, snorkelling in spectacular coral gardens, beach combing or coral viewing from the glass bottom boat. Over lunch cruise to the Southern Yasawa islands.  Enclosed by towering volcanic peaks and palm fringed beaches, Waya Island is a tropical paradise.  Visit a local school this afternoon and a village and shell market. The fit will also have a chance to climb to the peak of Waya for amazing views.  Don your favourite island attire for Pacific Island night tonight!

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Day 4 - Tuesday

WAYA ISLANDS - DENARAU MARINA After Breakfast, Reef Endeavour sets sail and returns to Denarau Marina at 07:30am for a 9:00am disembarkation.

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Immerse Yourself in Adventure

We know Fiji.  Join us on a multi night stay on the MS Caledonian Sky or one of our gorgeous sailing vessels for private island day excursion or a dinner cruise. Snorkel, dive, hike, paddle, visit a village or just laze around and read a book. Be as active or relaxed as you like, the choice is yours.

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Hear what our past guests have to say

We can’t speak highly enough of the staff and service, so helpful, friendly and warm. We would definitely cruise with you again

Hadrian
Small Ship Cruises
4 Night Cruise
1 August 2023
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The crew is so amazing and lovely, we had such an amazing stay and made new friends as well. Thank you so much for everything.

Eugene
Small Ship Cruises
4 Night Cruise
25 July 2023
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