Fiji Mamanuca Islands: Day Cruise with Lovo Lunch & Snorkeling

Summary

Swim Mana Sand Bar eat lovo lunch hear island stories

You’ll swim over bright reefs at Mana Sand Bar, jump into deep blue at Monu Cove, and share a Fijian lovo lunch on Monuriki Island with your local hosts. Expect laughter, music, homemade food, and time to soak in island stories — all with pickup included from Denarau resorts.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it’s like to eat banana cake on a boat in Fiji? I hadn’t, but that’s how our day started after we left Port Denarau — with the smell of sea air mixing with something sweet and familiar. Our guide, Jone, had this easy laugh and kept pointing out islands by their real names, not just the movie ones. First stop was Mana Sand Bar. The water was so clear I could see my own toes wiggling through the sand — which is weirdly satisfying. There were only about 20 of us, so it felt more like a group of friends than a tour. Some folks went straight for snorkeling; I just floated for a while and listened to everyone splashing around.

After that, Monu Cove surprised me. It’s deeper there — you can jump off the boat if you’re brave (I chickened out at first, but then Jone teased me until I did it). The cove is wrapped in volcanic rock and green hills, and the water’s this wild blue you don’t really see anywhere else. A few kids tried to outdo each other with cannonballs. When you look up from the water, it’s just sky and cliffs and people laughing. We drifted back onboard for snacks (more banana cake — apparently they’re obsessed) before heading to Monuriki Island.

I’ll admit I mostly knew Monuriki from Cast Away (my partner kept quoting “WILSON!”), but when we landed, Jone told us his family has ties to this place. Lunch was cooked underground — chicken, smoky eggplant, all these root veggies I couldn’t name but tasted way better than they looked. We ate under these handmade bures while someone played guitar nearby; honestly, I still think about that coconut sauce sometimes. After lunch some people hiked up for views; I just wandered along the beach picking up shells and listening to the waves — not much talking then, just quiet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full-day cruise through Mamanuca Islands

• Depart from Port Denarau at 9:00 AM
• Snorkel and swim at Mana Sand Bar
• Enjoy morning tea with banana cake
• Sail 20–30 minutes to Monu Cove
• Swim, snorkel, or jump at Monu Cove
• Sail 10 minutes to Monuriki Island
• Have traditional Fijian Lovo lunch
• Swim or take guided island tour
• Optional hike to island summit

Top questions

How long is the Cruisin Fiji day cruise?

The full-day cruise departs Port Denarau at 9:00 AM and returns in the afternoon.

Is lunch included on the Mamanuca Islands cruise?

Yes, a traditional Fijian lovo lunch is included on Monuriki Island.

Are snorkeling gear and snacks provided?

Yes, snorkeling equipment as well as snacks and drinks are provided throughout the day.

What are the main stops on this Fiji day trip?

The cruise visits Mana Sand Bar, Monu Cove, and Monuriki Island in the Mamanuca Islands.

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?

Free pickup is included from Denarau Island Resorts; transport fees apply from other hotels.

Can vegetarians be accommodated for lunch?

Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested when booking.

How many people are on each cruise?

Tours usually have 25–27 guests (up to 38 during peak times).

Is this Fiji cruise suitable for children?

Yes, children under 16 can join if accompanied by an adult.

What’s included

Your day includes free pickup from Denarau Island Resorts (with extra transport options for other hotels), guided snorkeling sessions with all equipment provided, plenty of snacks plus bottled water or soft drinks throughout the trip, and a traditional Fijian lovo buffet lunch served right on Monuriki Island before heading back in the afternoon.