Baygrass Top Excursions - Sailing the Yasawa Islands (#3)

To reach Yasawa Island from Fiji’s main island of Viti Levu, one needs to travel by road to Port Denarau.

From here on Yasawa Islands can be accessed by the way of:

• Yasawa Flyer Ferry - Departing daily at 8:45 AM from Port Denarau in Fiji , this high-speed catamaran is the ultimate transport for exploring the Yasawa archipelago. It weaves through the islands, making stops along the way, and offering travellers not only a convenient route but also a beautiful journey through Fiji’s waters.

Standard one-way ticket : FJ$190 (about Rs 7200) from Denarau to Waya Island.

Captains Lounge upgrade : An additional FJ$30-40 (Rs 1100 - Rs 1500), with amenities like air-conditioning, complimentary snacks, and beverages.

Bula Pass: Consider this for island hopping. This pass allows for a flexible hop-on, hop-off boat transfers and unlimited travel on the ferry within a specified number of days.

• 5 Days : FJ$565 (about Rs 20,900)

• 7 Days : FJ$635 (about Rs 23,500)

• 9 Days : FJ$725 (about Rs 26,900)

• 11 Days : FJ$795 (about Rs 29,400)

• 13 Days : FJ$875 (about Rs 32,300)

• 15 Days : FJ$950 (about Rs 35, 150)

SeaPlane - For those seeking a quick commute, seaplanes offer breathtaking aerial views of the South Pacific Ocean. These flights depart from Nadi and take you directly to your chosen island resort, offering the best in convenience and luxury. With a seaplane, you can reach Yasawas in about 30 minutes.

• One-way Transfer from Nadi to Yasawa Islands, costs around FJ$ 395 - FJ$ 495 (approximate, depending on the resort and distance) or approximately Rs17,800 - Rs 22,300
• Round-trip Transfer from Nadi to Yasawa Islands, can cost you around FJ$ 790 - FJ$ 990 or Rs 35,680 - Rs 44,720

Nanuya Lailai Island – Blue Lagoon Beach

Nanuya Lailai is the jewel of the Yasawa Islands. It is one of the smallest of the island group, and stretches across 1.5 km. The beautiful Blue Lagoon beach here is dotted with palm trees. The surrounding jungle and rolling hills create a stunning backdrop. During a low tide one can walk from Nanuya Lailai to Turtle Island, separated from each other by a channel less than 100 metres in width.

Attractions here include snorkelling, diving, and kayaking in the azure waters surrounding the island. You can also hike the picturesque landscape spanning just a few kms.

Nacula Island – Blue Lagoon Resort

Though it shares its name with Blue Lagoon Beach, the resort is on Nacula Island. It is a great spot to relax, take in the views and a soak in the tranquil atmosphere. This resort offers convenient access to nearby islands, ideal for those looking for island hopping.

From the Blue Lagoon Resort, you can make a day trip to the Sawa-I-Lau Caves, which are just a 20-minute boat ride away. These caves, filled with water, are said to be the final resting place of the Fijian god Ulutini.

Attractions here include the cultural experience of kava tasting*, island hopping, and ofcourse the underwater activities like snorkelling and diving.

***Kava tasting is a traditional Fijian experience that involves enjoying a drink made from the root of the kava plant. Known for its earthy taste and calming effects, kava i s usually shared in a ceremonial setting. This creates a sense of community and relaxation.

Drawaqa Island

Drawaqa Island aka Barefoot Island is owned by the inhabitants of Mua-ira village, located on the nearby Naviti island. This idyllic island’s waters are part of a protected marine reserve and famous for the incredible snorkelling experiences alongside manta rays. Apart from swimming with manta rays, the most sought after activity here, one can just relax and immerse in the serene surroundings. While at it, photography, both underwater and over the land, are great holiday experiences.

Waya Island 

Located in the southern part of the Yasawas , Wayasewa or Waya Island is known for its stunning hiking trails that lead to scenic viewpoints. It offers both adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Octopus Resort here provides a comfortable base to explore the island and enjoy various activities including diving, paddle boarding, fishing, and kayaking.

Make sure to pay a visit to the local church and communities to understand the Fijian culture. 

Budget Options (Rs 3,500 - 7,000 per night)

1. Blue Lagoon Beach Resort  , Nacula Island - A lively resort with a pool, bustling dive centre, and organised activities.

2. Nabua Lodge  , Naviti Island - A family-run homestay that provides an authentic Fijian experience, with opportunities to engage in local culture.

3. Safe Landing Eco-Lodge  , Nacula Island - Set amidst natural surroundings, this eco-lodge offers a rustic stay with communal dining and a focus on sustainability.

Mid-Range Options (Rs 7,000 - 15,000 per night)

1. Octopus Resort  , Waya Island - The resort features a stunning beachfront, communal dining, and activities like yoga and snorkelling.

2. Coral View Island Resort  , Tavewa Island - Known for its beautiful coral reefs and snorkelling spots, this resort offers comfortable accommodations and dining options.

Luxury Options (Rs 15,000 - 30,000+ per night)

1. Turtle Island Resort  , Turtle Island - An exclusive private island resort with only 14 guest bures, offering personalised service, gourmet dining, and unique experiences like beach picnics and sunset cruises.

2. Barefoot Manta Island Resort  , Drawaqa Island - A relaxed, eco-friendly resort with beachfront accommodations, offering a focus on sustainability and local culture, along with a vibrant social atmosphere.

3. Yasawa Island Resort & Spa  , Yasawa Island - A luxurious resort offering beachfront bures, spa services, and gourmet dining. It provides access to pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs, along with various activities like snorkelling, diving, and hiking.

•  Captain Cook Cruises  : Captain Cook Cruises offers multi-day cruises of 3/4/7 nights that explore both the Yasawa and Mamanuca Islands. Their itineraries typically include a variety of activities, such as snorkelling, cultural experiences, and visits to local villages. The experience is designed to showcase the stunning beauty and diversity of Fiji's islands. Costs around Rs 45,000 for 3 nights.

•  Awesome Adventures Fiji  : Specialising in island hopping, Awesome Adventures Fiji provides Bula Pass options that allow travellers to explore the Yasawa Islands at their own pace. They also offer guided tours that include transportation, accommodation, and activities, ensuring a hassle-free experience for visitors.

• Blue Lagoon Cruises  : They offer 3, 4, or 7 night cruises with prices ranging from Rs 50,000 for a 3-night cruise to Rs 95,000 for a 7-night cruise. Blue Lagoon focuses on luxurious sailings that emphasise snorkelling, diving, and cultural experiences. Their cruises typically feature comfortable accommodations, gourmet dining, and activities designed to immerse guests in the natural beauty and rich culture of the Yasawa Islands.