SOUTHERN LAU EXPEDITION
LAST CHANCE -BOOK NOW!
Explore the hidden wonders of Fiji’s Southern Lau Group on this 7-night expedition cruise. Dive into the vibrant marine life of the Great Sea Reef on the first day, followed by cultural encounters on Buliya and a historical exploration of Matuka. Discover the pristine beauty of Fulaga's lagoons and Yagasa's coral-rich waters. Experience the serenity of Vuaqava's sacred island and engage in Kabara's traditional welcome. Totoya Island offers a unique volcanic landscape, while Vatulele provides a glimpse into tapa crafting. Encounter the ancient firewalking tradition on Beqa and explore its diverse marine life. The journey concludes in Lautoka, bidding farewell with traditional Fijian songs. This expedition promises a perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural immersion, and warm hospitality.
highlights
- Explore Tivua Private Islands coral gardens, coral planting and clam rearing cages or enjoy a scenic walk around the island and relax on the beach
- Engage in cultural exchanges and savour the flavours of Fijian cuisine in the charming village of Buliya, immersing yourself in the local way of life
- Uncover battle remnants on Matuku, showcasing Fiji's historical significance
- Immerse in Fulaga's extinct volcano crater, known for crystal-clear lagoons and vibrant coral
- Visit the island of Vatulele, famous for the Red Prawns and Tapa (traditional Fijian fabric)
- Explore Beqa Island, famous for their traditional fire walkers and shark dives
7 NIGHT SOUTHERN LAU EXPEDITION
14 Sept & 12 Oct 2024
NOTE: Please use the legend to find your itinerary
DAY 1
TIVUA PRIVATE ISLAND
Arrive at the Captain Cook Cruises Fiji check-in counter at Port Denarau this morning to check in for your cruise. Board MS Caledonian Sky and set sail over a light lunch as we cruise towards Tivua Island. Enjoy an afternoon of beach activities at Captain Cook Cruises’ own Tivua Private Island. As you explore the beautiful coral gardens of Tivua you’ll be surrounded by magnificent aquamarine waters and 500 acres of thriving coral gardens. Paddle, snorkel, dive to explore or join our sustainability journey by planting a coral in our coral nursery while you’re there. Return to the MS Caledonian Sky and enjoy a wonderful welcome dinner as you cruise towards a South Pacific sunset.
DAY 2
BULIYA, kadavu
Buliya is Fiji’s fourth largest island whose villages and residents are discovered on a guided hike with our ship’s crew. Later complete a refreshing ocean swim or take a book and laze on its magnificent white sandy beaches. There’s a chance to swim and snorkel with serene manta rays in Buliya’s pristine shallow waters and for divers, the world’s fourth largest reef Great Astrolabe is calling!
DAY 3
MATUKU
Between 1840 and 1853 when Ma’afu was trying invade the island, the Cakobau (King) of Fiji was protected on Matuku by the people and ultimately returned to his home island of Bau. Evidence of the fierce battles remain including ring ditches and war fortifications from the era can be found around the island. Highlights include joining a guided hike to discover the island’s history and visit Lomati, one of its five villages.
DAY 4
FULAGA ISLAND
Fulaga is an extinct volcano crater and is famous for its crystal-clear lagoons, colourful tropical fish and vibrant corals. You’ll have a chance to swim in this magnificent aqua blue paradise and meet local villagers who’ll be happy to welcome you to their home and share their traditionally crafted woodcarvings and handicrafts. We arrive at Yagasa Island for snorkelling, swimming, coral viewing and kayaking. Snorkel around the magnificent collection of coral bommies rich with diverse and abundant marine life and beautiful coral gardens.
DAY 5
TOTOYA ISLAND
Today’s island visit heads to the tiny horse-shoe shaped Totoya Island with its deep-water volcanic crater. The high reef surrounding Totoya makes it a popular boating destination with its fascinating water passages and it’s also home to a world-famous surfing break. We visit a local school and the children will surprise you with their entertainment and be proud to show you their work. We’ll also have the opportunity to explore the local reefs for some outstanding diving and snorkeling.
DAY 6
BEQA
The story of firewalking in Fiji begins around 500 years ago on the island of Beqa, when there were only around 50 people living in the village of Nakarovu. Legend says the special firewalking powers are specific to the descendants of Tuinaiviqalita. Beqa also offers the opportunity to dive with sharks and a chance to book in for an optional sport fishing experience.
DAY 7
VATULELE
A beautiful aquamarine lagoon surrounds Vatulele offering fabulous snorkelling and extraordinary dive sites. Vatulele is the most famous place in Fiji for the craft of tapa, the traditional bark cloth. The ladies of the village share their knowledge and teach you how it is done. Exploring the island, you’ll discover the sacred and protected red prawns.
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DAY 8
DISEMBARK LAUTOKA
Enjoy breakfast onboard as we return to Lautoka for a 9:00am disembarkation. Our crew bid you farewell in song including their traditional Fijian ‘Isa Lei’ as they say ‘Soto Tale’ or ‘see you again’. Transfers will be available to the Airport, Port Denarau hotels and the Port Denarau Marina.
Disclaimer
Our itineraries are indicative of the destinations we visit. To enhance your expedition cruise experience, the Captain and onboard team may make necessary changes based on seasonal variations, weather, tidal conditions and any other event that may affect the operation of the vessel or experience.
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- Sitting area with coffee table, armchairs
- En-suite bathroom with walk-in shower and/or corner bath tub
- Heated towel rail, shaver outlet and hairdryer
- Individually controlled air-conditioning
- Refillable water bottles
- Mini-fridge, cabin-to-cabin telephone and safe
- Flat screen television (DVDs available from reception)
- Dressing gowns and slippers
- Molton Brown toiletries
ALL-INCLUSIVE
All meals, nightly canapes and coffee and tea 24/7. Complimentary house beer, wine, juice and soft drinks are served during lunch and dinner service.
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ONBOARD TEAM
Our expanded 10-person expedition team of marine biologists, naturalists, and a dive master provide immersive lectures onboard and guided marine and land-based tours onshore and in the water.
CULTURE
Exclusive shoreside experiences such as a traditional Fijian Feast (Lovo) and cultural performances (Meke) at local villages, visit to local schools, communities and markets
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ACTIVITIES
Explore the pristine waters of Fiji, Tonga or Samoa each day with our coral-viewing kayaks, standup paddleboards and snorkel equipment.
CULINARY
Upgraded culinary offering featuring cuisine celebrating the best and freshest Fiji produce and the international fusion of flavours of Fiji.
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UPGRADE
Upgrade your experience with a Dive Package and explore the waters of one of the most beautiful places on earth, or a Spa Package featuring a range of rejuvenating spa treatments.
EXPLORE THE UNEXPLORED
A NEW ERA IN LUXURY SOUTH PACIFIC CRUISE EXPERIENCES
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MS Caledonian Sky brings with her a new era in high end cruise experiences never before seen in Fiji and the South Pacific. Caledonian Sky is tailor made for the adventurous sophisticated traveller offering spacious boutique comfort with a capacity of only 114 passengers across 57 ocean view suites.
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Her 10 zodiacs and 70 crew are at the ready to create unforgettable uniquely Fijian cruise experiences and offer exclusive access to the otherwise unexplorable islands in the Lau group, Tonga and Samoa.
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Dining is a vital ingredient of your Fiji cruise. All menus are prepared onboard from fresh, local, and imported produce. You can choose to dine al fresco on the deck as you watch the beautiful views pass by or in the ship's Dining Room for a more formal setting. All meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert are included and freshly prepared, daily, onboard.
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