Fiji Travel Facts for Yachts

Fact File for Fiji

Over 300 islands create a boating mecca, destined to be cruised and explored. Just over 100 of these are uninhabited. Be amazed by beautiful white sandy beaches and coconut trees, pristine coral and a plethora of underwater tropical fish. Ashore be privileged by an introduction to traditional village life.

COORDINATES: 18º00S, 179º00E

LANGUAGE: Fijian and Hindustrani; English widely spoken

BIGGEST ISLAND: Viti Levu

WEATHER: Climate is tropical marine and warm year-round with minimal extremes. The warm season is from November to April and cooler from May to October. Temperature in the cool season averages 22C (72F). Rainfall is more expected in the warm season and light and moderate trade winds are from E to SE.

BEST TIME TO CHARTER: May-October

AIRPORTS: There are two international airports, the bigger one being Nadi International Airport (NAN) in Viti Levu.

CURRENCY: Fijian Dollar (FJD); American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are accepted in a number of establishments and can be used in resorts on most islands. ATMs are found in Nadi, Suva and Savusavu and are growing rather slowly throughout the islands.

ELECTRICITY: 240 V, 50 Hz; Australian-style plugs used

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS:

1 Jan - New Year's Day
Jan - Prophet Muhammad's birthday
Mar/Apr - Good Friday, Easter Monday
2nd Mon in Jun - Queen's Birthday
10 Oct - Fiji Day
Oct/Nov - Diwali (Festival of Lights)
25 Dec - Christmas Day
26 Dec - Boxing Day

MAIN PORTS AND MARINAS: Royal Suva Yacht Club, The Copra Shed Marina, Musket Cove Marina, Port Denarau Marina (all on Viti Levu)

RECOMMENDED BEACHES: All but a few islands in Fiji are surrounded by coral reefs and have bathtub-like lagoons lapping on coral sands rimmed with coconut palm trees. Most lagoons in Fiji are shallow at low tide.

CULTURAL: Fijians are very welcoming people and visitors often experience local hospitality. Informal casual wear is generally acceptable.