Thurston Gardens
Thurston Gardens is an incredible collection of Fiji's diverse plant life, sure to stun anyone who enters. The garden contains a plethora of water lilies, palms, gingers, and more. It's a great place for those who want to step away from the city life and have a moment of peace.
Best Time To Visit
Thurston Gardens are open every day of the year, and there is no admission fee to enter.
You Should Know
The garden was first established as Suva Botanical Gardens in 1881 by Colonial Secretary Sir John Thurston, the fifth governor of Fiji. It was moved to its current location in 1913 and received its current name in 1976. Thurston Gardens sits on the original site of the town of Suva. It was burned in 1843 in one of Fiji's bloodiest battles.Fiji Museum
Inside of Thurston Gardens, you'll find the Fiji Museum, a stunning collection of the nation's artifacts dating back around 3,700 years. It first opened in 1955 and is a must-see for those interested in learning more about the island nation.
Best Time To Visit
The Fiji Museum is open all year long. They are closed on Sundays. They are open on Saturday, as well as Monday through Thursday, from 9 a.m. until 6:30 p.m., and Friday from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m.
You Should Know
The museum holds artifacts from Fiji's native inhabitants as well as other communities that have called Fiji home for the last 200 years. You'll find exhibits across three adjoining buildings. In addition to the exhibits, the Fiji Museum maintains a Reference Library and Archive. They also rent out the verandah for special events.Colo-I-Suva Forest Park
Nature lovers won't want to miss an excursion to Colo-I-Suva Forest Park. Here, you'll find opportunities for birdwatching, swimming, and hiking, all located just outside of Suva. The entire reserve is about 2.5 square kilometers.
Best Time To Visit
It's recommended to visit the Forest Park between May and August, which is the dry season. The park is patrolled and open for visits from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Adults pay $5 for admission, children under 14 pay $1, and children under 2 are free.
You Should Know
This National Park was established in 1872. In addition to the native vegetation, be on the lookout for African mahogany, which was planted in the 1940s and 1950s. You can easily reach Colo-I-Suva Forest Park via the Sawani Bus, which takes off from the Suva City bus station.Sacred Heart Cathedral
Sacred Heart Cathedral is the primary ecclesiastical building for the Roman Catholic Church in Fiji. You'll find it on Pratt Street in the heart of Suva. You'll find classic European design elements like two towers, concrete balustrades, and concrete staircases. Be sure to look above the altar to admire the stained-glass window.
Best Time To Visit
The cathedral welcomes visitors all year long. If you would like to attend mass, they are held Saturday at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m., as well as Sunday at 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m., and 7 p.m.
You Should Know
Sacred Heart Cathedral is also referred to as the Cathedral of Suva. It was built in 1902 and contains sandstone imported from Australia. This cathedral is the headquarters of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Suva, established in 1966 by Pope Paul VI.Sabeto Thermal Mud Pool & Hot Springs
Outside of Lautoka, you'll find Sabeto Thermal Mud Pool & Hot Springs, the ideal spot for relaxation. Caking oneself in mud and soaking in the hot springs is a traditional Fijian activity that visitors from around the world have come to love.
Best Time To Visit
Sabeto Thermal Mud Pool & Hot Springs is open every day from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Visitors pay a $20 admission fee, which goes to benefit the village that owns and maintains the pools.
You Should Know
It's easy to schedule a half-day guided tour of the hot springs if your cruise allows for a longer excursion. Basic changing and shower facilities are provided on-site.Lautoka Botanical Gardens
For a stunning natural attraction, just a short walk away from your cruise ship port, visit Lautoka Botanical Gardens. You'll have a beautiful view of many of the native plant species, as well as spectacular birds.
Best Time To Visit
Lautoka Botanical Gardens is open year-round, though some visitors in March and April claimed that not many flowers were in bloom. The Gardens operates Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.
You Should Know
Some of the plants you can expect to see include palms and orchids. They also have many species that don't grow in Northern climates and are unique for global visitors. You're welcome to get some mosquito repellent at the front desk before you enter the Gardens.Koroyanitu National Heritage Park
Koroyanitu National Heritage Park has six villages cooperating for its upkeep, and their efforts are immediately apparent. You can stroll through the park to view some of Fiji's most beautiful nature, and if you're really ambitious, you can make the climb up to Castle Rock for an unmatched view.
Best Time To Visit
Visitors enjoy Koroyanitu National Heritage Park all year long. Admission costs $12 per adult and $6 per child under age 14. Children 2 and under enter for free.
You Should Know
You may also hear this park referred to as Mt. Batilamu, Nase Lodge, or Abaca National Heritage Park. The summit of Castle Rock offers views of the Yasawas and Mamanucas. This trail takes about 4 hours one way, but there is a shorter two-hour hike that takes you right past a waterfall.Krishna Kaliya Temple
Krisha Kaliya Temple is an important place for religion and culture. Once you arrive, you can immediately see the influence that India has had on Fiji in terms of the Hindu religion. As Fiji holds the highest percentage of Hare Krishas per capita, it's apparent why this site is so vital to the area.
Best Time To Visit
You're welcome to visit Krishna Kaliya Temple at any time of year. Visitors recommend going in the early afternoon during puja (worship), or at twilight when you can witness the sunset that makes the stones glitter.
You Should Know
Krishna Kaliya Temple is the first ISKCON temple in all of Fiji. ISKCON is the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. When you enter, be seated in the designated area for your gender. You can expect a loud ceremony with bells, drums, chants, and conches. There is no admission fee, but a donation tray will be circulated at the end of the service.
Getting There
Setting sail for Fiji is like drifting into a world taken straight from a fantasy novel. In the heart of the South Pacific, Fiji is a cluster of sparkling islands, most ringed by pristine waters and unspoiled beaches. But how do you get there on a cruise?
Most cruises set their course for Fiji's two main islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, with the primary port being in the capital city of Suva on Viti Levu. This bustling port is the gateway to your Fijian adventure, equipped to welcome international cruise ships, providing you with your first glimpse of the country's vibrant culture and lush landscapes. With modern docking facilities, the port of Suva is designed to transition you from your sea journey into this island paradise effortlessly. Remember, your voyage to Fiji isn't just a trip; it's the beginning of a love affair with the Pacific.
The Perfect Time for a Fiji Cruise
Setting sail on a Fiji cruise is a fantastic way to explore the stunning beauty of this tropical paradise. Figuring out the best time to set sail for Fiji is key to maximizing your cruise experience. Fiji, known for its tropical warmth, offers great weather year-round, making cruising a delight in any season. However, let's dive into the specifics to find the perfect time for your Fiji cruise adventure.
May to October: Cruising Fiji during its winter months – which are far from cold – means less humidity and comfortable temperatures typically in the 20s (Celsius). This dry season is the prime time for cruising, offering sunny days, cooler nights, and minimal rainfall. It's perfect for cruisers looking to enjoy the warm sun on the deck of their cruise ship without the intense heat. Plus, cruising Fiji in this period is an ideal escape from colder climates elsewhere, providing a sunny retreat on the seas.
November to April: This period marks Fiji's summer and wet season. Cruisers can expect higher humidity and more frequent tropical showers during this time. While the showers are usually brief, they bring a lush vibrancy to the islands. Cruising Fiji in these months might mean a bit more cloud cover, but it also offers a more exclusive and serene experience, with fewer tourists on board and at the ports. The summer months are perfect for cruisers who don't mind the tropical climate and prefer a more secluded and tranquil cruising experience.
Whether you're after the consistent sunny weather of the dry season or the lush, serene atmosphere of the wet season, cruising Fiji promises a spectacular journey. Each season offers a unique cruising experience, making Fiji a versatile and enchanting destination for all cruisers.
Why Book a Cruise to Fiji?
Considering a trip to Fiji? Imagine elevating your travel experience from great to unforgettable by choosing a cruise. When your ship nears the Fijian shores, you're treated to a breathtaking panorama unique to sea travel. The archipelago unfolds before your eyes, with the sun setting over the islands and the ocean shimmering under the sky. But the scenic journey is just the beginning.
One of the biggest perks of cruising is the hassle-free nature of it all. Say goodbye to the stress of multiple bookings and chaotic transit schedules. On a cruise, your accommodation, transit, meals, and entertainment are all rolled into one package, leaving you more time to savor every moment of your vacation. All you need to do is unpack once and let the adventure unfold around you.
What's more, the value for money you get from a cruise package is exceptional. Everything, including diverse activities, delicious meals, and thrilling onboard entertainment, is included in your fare, making for a cost-effective journey without compromising on the experience.
Cruises often have the added advantage of offering unique access to areas typical tourists may not venture into, like exclusive visits to private islands or secluded bays. It's almost like discovering a secret world hidden within Fiji, a paradise reserved just for you. Add to that a variety of onboard activities — ranging from relaxation in the spa to gourmet dining experiences, workshops, and shows — and there's never a dull moment.
Another joy of cruise travel? The social aspect. Cruises are a fantastic place to meet like-minded adventurers from around the world. The shared experiences, whether during communal dining or group excursions, create a friendly, intimate atmosphere.
Opting for a Fiji cruise is not just choosing a journey; it's selecting a seamless, stress-free, and immersive way to experience the heart of Fiji, combining the ease of relaxation with the thrill of discovery.
Experience the Flavors of Fiji
Cruising to Fiji isn't just a feast for the eyes; it's an invitation to explore rich flavors and unique dishes that you won't find anywhere else. Fijian cuisine is an exciting medley heavily influenced by tropical fruits, vegetables, and the abundant seafood right off its coasts.
One must-try is "Kokoda," Fiji's answer to ceviche. This refreshing dish features fish marinated in citrus and coconut cream - talk about a tropical flavor explosion! And don't even think about skipping "Lovo," a traditional feast where food is slow-cooked in a banana leaf underground. The result? Tender, smoky goodness that's impossible to resist.
For an authentic experience, hunt down a "Fijian magiti" (feast) offered by many local villages. This isn't just eating; it's a cultural experience, sharing food cooked in earth ovens, often followed by traditional Fijian music and kava ceremonies.
Oh, and you'll find the fresh seafood irresistible. From mahi-mahi to crab, it's all straight from the ocean to your plate. Dining by the sea, with the freshest catch? Yes, please!
Are you in the mood for something to sip on? Try the local beers or a fresh coconut right from the tree. But for the adventurous, there's kava, a traditional drink that's a huge part of the social fabric here. It's a bit peppery and has a unique earthy taste.
Immerse Yourself in Fiji's Culture
Step into a world of tradition and celebration on your Fiji cruise. Fiji is more than sun-kissed beaches and postcard-perfect horizons; it's a cultural sanctuary brimming with traditions and customs that reflect its rich history.
Fijians are renowned for their warmth and hospitality, and visitors are often greeted with the friendly exclamation, "Bula!" It's a lifestyle, a way of welcoming you into their community with open arms. Embrace it, and you'll be whisked into the vibrant communal life that's central to the Fijian way.
You can't talk about Fiji's culture without mentioning its spirited festivals. The South Pacific Music Festival, with its array of Pacific artists, encapsulates the heart of the islands through music.
Meanwhile, the Bula Festival celebrates Fijian heritage and provides travelers with a taste of local art, food, and the famous 'Firewalking Ceremony' by the warriors of Beqa Island.
Experience the 'Yaqona' ceremony, where kava, a ceremonial drink, is shared to welcome guests, fostering a sense of unity and respect between visitor and host. It's not just a drink; it's a cultural emblem, an experience that symbolizes Fijian society's communal and harmonious spirit.
Your cruise to Fiji is not just a getaway; it's a deep dive into a way of life that cherishes community, tradition, and the joys of a shared table and shared stories. Ready to join in?
Ready to Book Your Fiji Cruise?
Has the tropical allure of Fiji started calling your name? From the unspoiled beauty of its idyllic beaches to the rhythmic beat of its cultural heart, a Fiji cruise promises more than a holiday; it offers an escape into a world where nature's handiwork meets vibrant culture.
Imagine basking on the sun-drenched decks of your cruise ship as you sail into port, each destination revealing new adventures. Whether you're diving into the crystal-clear waters to explore the coral reefs, participating in the local 'Yaqona' ceremony, or simply unwinding on one of Fiji's golden beaches, the possibilities for relaxation and exploration are endless.
But what sets a Fiji cruise apart is the convenience combined with an immersive experience. Everything you need for a memorable journey is aboard. With no need to hop between hotels or negotiate transport, you save time and stress, leaving you more freedom to engage with the island's charm.
The vibrant festivals, friendly locals, and mouthwatering flavors of traditional Fijian cuisine are waiting. Each day presents a new horizon, a new port, and a fresh buffet of experiences. So, why wait? Dive into planning your trip because the enchanting shores of Fiji are ready to fill your photo albums and your heart with unforgettable memories. It's more than a cruise; it's a journey of discovery. Book your Fiji cruise today!