Fiji Mamanuca Islands: Island & Reef Day Cruise with Lunch

Summary

Set sail from Denarau to private beaches, coral reefs, and glass-bottom boat tours in Fiji’s Mamanuca Islands

You’ll board a tall ship in Nadi for a full-day cruise through Fiji’s Mamanuca Islands, with guided snorkeling over coral reefs and time on private Kadavu Lailai beach. Enjoy a kava ceremony, glass-bottom boat tour with a marine biologist, tropical buffet lunch and drinks included — plus plenty of moments that linger long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

“Try the kava — just a sip,” our guide grinned as he handed me the little cup, the scent earthy and oddly comforting. We’d barely left Port Denarau Marina when I realized this wasn’t going to be your usual day trip. The ship was taller than I expected, sails creaking softly overhead. There was laughter from a family nearby and someone already barefoot, toes wiggling against the deck. It felt like everyone exhaled at once as Nadi faded behind us and the water turned that impossible shade of blue — you know the one.

I didn’t expect to care so much about coral reefs, but our marine biologist (I think her name was Mere?) made it all feel urgent and personal. She pointed out tiny flashes of color under the glass-bottom boat — parrotfish darting between corals, sea cucumbers looking like weird underwater slugs. When we got to Kadavu Lailai beach, I could smell coconut oil and salt on the breeze, sunscreen mixing with barbecue smoke from lunch being prepped somewhere behind the palms. The sand was so fine it squeaked under my feet. Snorkeling gear was ready for us; I fumbled with my mask but nobody seemed to mind.

Lunch was this big tropical buffet — grilled fish, papaya salad, something spicy I couldn’t pronounce (Li laughed when I tried to say it in Fijian). Cold beer in hand, I watched kids paddleboarding while some folks just floated in the shallows. There were optional things like coral planting (felt good to do something for once instead of just taking pictures), or you could just nap under a cabana if that’s your style. The sun felt heavy on my shoulders by afternoon but in a good way.

The ride back was quieter — wind in my hair, a few people dozing off or just staring at the horizon. Someone played ukulele softly near the bow; I still think about that sound sometimes when things get loud at home. This day trip from Nadi to the Mamanuca Islands wasn’t what I expected — it was slower, warmer somehow. If you want to see Fiji without rushing or pretending you’re not a tourist… well, this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Island and reef day cruise in Fiji

• Coach pick up to Port Denarau
• Board tall ship with welcome drink
• Set sail to Kadavu Lailai island
• Snorkel, kayak, and paddle board
• Join marine biologist on glass-bottom boat
• Take cultural walk and coral planting
• Enjoy buffet lunch and drinks
• Relax or swim on pristine beach
• Return sail to Nadi

Top questions

What time does the Fiji Island & Reef Day Cruise depart?

The cruise departs Port Denarau Marina at 10am and returns around 5pm.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip from Nadi?

Yes, complimentary coach pickup is included from Denarau and Nadi resorts to Port Denarau.

Are meals provided during the Mamanuca Islands cruise?

Yes, morning tea, afternoon tea, and a tropical buffet lunch are included on the island.

Can I snorkel or dive during this Captain Cook Cruises tour?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided and there’s an option for guided diving (PADI 5 Star) at extra cost.

Is there a marine biologist on board?

Yes, guided snorkeling and glass-bottom boat tours are led by resident marine biologists.

What activities are available on Kadavu Lailai beach?

You can snorkel, kayak, paddleboard or relax on the beach; optional coral planting is also offered.

Are drinks included during the cruise?

A selection of beers, house wines and soft drinks are included while on the island.

How long does it take to reach Kadavu Lailai from Port Denarau?

The sail takes about one hour each way between Port Denarau and Kadavu Lailai Private Beach.

What’s included

Your day includes complimentary coach pickup from Nadi or Denarau resorts to Port Denarau Marina where you’ll board a tall ship for an hour-long sail to Kadavu Lailai Private Beach in the Mamanucas. All snorkeling equipment is provided along with morning tea, afternoon tea and a tropical buffet lunch with drinks on the island. You’ll join guided marine biologist-led snorkel sessions and glass-bottom boat tours; kayaks and stand-up paddle boards are also available throughout your stay before returning late afternoon.