Fiji is a South Pacific archipelago of over 330 islands, straddling the international dateline and just over 1,000 miles south of the equator, and some 1,300 miles northeast of New Zealand's North Island. The islands themselves are majestic volcanic mountains, covered with tropical rainforests, segregated by vast coconut plantations and fringed by picture postcard white sand beaches which are in turn lapped by warm azure blue waters. Beneath the surface, divers soon discover why Fiji is so deserving of its reputation as the soft coral capital of the world.
With over 4,000 square miles of coral reef, including the Great Astrolabe Barrier Reef, Fiji offers unparalleled marine biodiversity and a unique diving experience. However, it is the incredible array of rainbow hued soft corals that create the kaleidoscopic sheer walls and techno-coloured tunnels, which really sets Fiji apart from other dive destinations around the world. The consistently exceptional visibility also keeps the depths well lit and provides perfect conditions for wide angle photography.
Just about all species of reef fish are well represented in Fiji, in particular the teeming anthias add a stunning foreground layer of constantly moving colour to the variegated reefs. Attracted by the smorgasbord of nutrients that arrive on a reliable tidal flow from the depths of the Koro Sea, the magnificent manta ray is also a regular visitor to the Fijian islands. Of course wherever the food chain is well supported, sharks and other pelagic species will also be present, and Fiji is no exception. In these beautiful tropical waters, divers will encounter hammerhead, blacktip, whitetip, silvertip, grey reef, lemon, bull and even tiger sharks. Fiji is also home to a number of seldom seen species, such as the blue ribbon eel and the black and white banded sea snake.
Fiji is a year round destination, however the dry winter cyclonic season (May to October) is arguably the best time to visit as the air is less humid and underwater visibility is generally at its very best. Fiji also offers world class drift diving for all levels of experience with as much to see in the shallows as the deeper waters.
Regaldive holidays to Fiji are completely tailormade to your personal requirements, giving the option to extend your liveaboard holiday with a land-based stay for as many nights as you choose. We recommend an extension at the Volivoli Beach Resort from where S/Y Fiji Siren departs. Extensions are also available in Pacific Harbour in the south of Viti Levu Island which offers easy access to take in the shark diving excursion at Beqa Lagoon.
Please contact the Regaldive Team for help planning your Fiji holiday.
Fiji Aggressor offers a 7 night itinerary encompassing the dive highlights of incredible Fiji.
Sample Itinerary is listed below:
Gau, Makongi, Namena, and Wakaya Islands
Flight Information
Unlike some South Pacific destinations, Fiji enjoys relatively good flight connections and although it is a very long way from the UK, it is possible to reach this tropical paradise with just one stop. The most direct routings are offered by Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong, Air New Zealand via Los Angeles and Qantas via Australia. Nadi International Airport is the main gateway to the country for most travellers, and there are several domestic airports scattered throughout the islands. Guests travelling on S/Y Fiji Siren will be transferred by road (approx. two and half hours journey) to Volivoli Beach Resort in the north of the island of Viti Levu, which is where the boat departs.
Passports & Visas
Upon arrival, UK citizens are granted a 4 month tourist visa. There is no charge for this visa. All visitors to Fiji are required to be in possession of a current passport and a return airline ticket. Passports should be valid for at least 6 months from date of entry into Fiji.
All non-US citizens opting to travel via Los Angeles will need to obtain a US visa or Electronic System of Travel Authorization (ESTA) at least 72 hours prior to travel. Travellers without the required visa or ESTA may be denied flight boarding. Citizens of 37 countries, including most European nations, Australia, New Zealand and Japan are eligible for the ESTA and can apply for these online. There is a charge of US$14 and the issued authorisation is valid for 2 years and allows for multiple entries into US territories within that period.
Vaccinations & Health Information
There is no malaria risk in Fiji, however protection against Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Typhoid are always strongly recommended. We suggest drinking bottled water only. Fiji has an effective medical system in place with government and privately run hospitals. There is a modern recompression chamber in Suva.
Vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed before departure with your local GP or travel clinic. Further information regarding vaccinations for travel can be found at www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk and from your local healthcare provider.