Sailing the Yasawas: A Kayak & Snorkel Expedition

If arriving by an international flight today, the group hotel will provide a free airport to hotel transfer. Room check in is available from 2pm. Rooms are based on twin share, although single rooms may be requested for an additional charge. The rest of the day and evening is at your own leisure. If you’re returning to stay at the Tanoa International, any extra luggage not required on the live aboard trip may be left with hotel reception, to be picked up on your return to Nadi. Overnight at the Tanoa International Hotel or similar

Meals:  Nil

Start the day with an early breakfast at the hotel before a group transfer to Nadi airport for the morning flight to Taveuni’s Matei Airport (flight cost is included in the trip price). The flight duration is one hour and 20 minutes with passengers treated to spectacular views of the archipelago. On arrival into Matei airport, you’ll be greeted by your kayak guide who will transfer you to Sea Breeze III. On embarkation, meet the captain and crew who will introduce you to life onboard and conduct a safety briefing. Your kayak guide will cover paddle safety and help with gear fitting. After lunch there will be an introductory kayak outing in a sheltered lagoon. Later in the afternoon, Sea Breeze III will depart for the first anchorage. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner on board under tropical night skies.

Meals:  B,L,D

After a sumptuous breakfast on board, we begin our first kayak exploration of Taveuni. Known as the "Garden Isle", Taveuni is the third-largest island in Fiji and a captivating destination for nature lovers with lush tropical rainforests, waterfalls and abundant flora and fauna. Sea kayaking along the coastline is particularly rewarding due to the island’s sheltered bays and stunning scenery. Today’s paddling outing takes place along Taveuni’s eastern coast to Bouma National Heritage Park. The 150 square kilometre park is made up of coastal forest and inland jungle and makes up a third of Taveuni’s total area. The park is home to Tavoro (Bouma) Falls, known as the most iconic waterfalls in Fiji. The first waterfall is a short walk from the park’s visitor centre, with two more spectacular falls a longer trek away. The phenomenal views are worth the extra effort and hikers are rewarded with a cooling dip in natural swimming pools along the way. After chasing waterfalls, we meet up with Sea Breeze III in time for a sundowner.

Meals:  B,L,D

We continue our kayak exploration of Taveuni’s east coast and, depending on sea conditions, explore the exposed and rugged section around Lavena village. The paddling along this remote rocky coast is spectacular, where waterfalls empty directly into the ocean! The Lavena Coastal walk starts where the road ends on Taveuni’s wild south-eastern coast. The 5km (one and a half hour) trail rewards hikers with breathtaking beaches, remote villages, rock-strewn rivers and vine-covered jungle concluding with a freshwater dip at some spectacular waterfalls. During the walk, we’ll keep an eye out for the local birdlife, including the flame dove, silk tails, Fiji goshawks and wattled honeyeaters. Later in the day, we retreat to the comfort of our live aboard

Meals:  B,L,D

Leaving Taveuni Island, we head north-east to Qamea Island. The island is surrounded by sheltered bays, perfect for launching the kayaks and for access to pristine coral reefs for snorkelling. The island’s beautiful beaches, secluded coves, and rainforest-clad hills provide an idyllic backdrop for our paddling outings. Onshore, we visit local Fijian villages to experience traditional island life, hike to waterfalls or simply relax in the island’s peaceful environment. We hope to explore Matagi (or Matangi) Island, situated north of Qamea. The island’s Horseshoe Bay, situated on Matagi’s untouched western coast is a stunning location for Sea Breeze III to anchor. The bay is perfect for a relaxed paddle, a snorkel over pristine reefs among hundreds of colourful fish and, on land, beach-combing or a forest walk.

Meals:  B,L,D

Today we head west to Vanua Levu, Fiji’s second largest island. On crossing the Somosomo Strait we’ll keep an eye out for pilot whales and dolphins that are often spotted in the area. We aim to visit Kioa Island, purchased in 1946 by islanders from Vaitupu, Tuvalu, who embarked on a journey to Fiji in search of a new home for future generations. They discovered Kioa Island, a remote paradise nestled in stunning Buca Bay. Further north is Rabi Island, which we hope to visit with permission from the local chiefs. In 1941, the British government purchased Rabi for £25,000 to serve as a new home for the Banabans of Ocean Island in the Gilbert Islands, whose home was being ravaged by phosphate mining. With their rich histories and remote locations, both islands offer truly fascinating explorations. Between Rabi and Kioa Islands, from May to November, exists a stable population of manta rays. Conditions permitting, we may be able to experience the awe-inspiring opportunity to snorkel alongside theses majestic creatures. The strong currents flowing through the strait concentrates nutrients, making a perfect feeding spot for mantas to access plankton. The mantas can range in size from 3 to 5 meters (9.8 to 16.4 feet) across their wingspans and are known as the gentle giants of the ocean.

Meals:  B,L,D

Today’s destination is Rainbow Reef, a world-renowned diving location due to the vibrant and diverse coral ecosystems. The reef is a top spot for our final snorkel among soft coral gardens, colourful fish, turtles and occasional reef sharks. There are sheltered anchorages nearby, where we can launch the kayaks and explore the eastern coastline of Vanua Levu. Later today, we start the return journey to Taveuni. Our last night onboard is a celebration of gourmet delights and adventures shared.

Meals:  B,L,D

Today sees us disembark Sea Breeze III from its’ anchorage near Matei by 10am. We farewell the captain and crew before a transfer to the airport if catching a flight out (not included in the trip price) today or into town if continuing your stay on Taveuni. For those not having to rush back to Nadi, Taveuni boasts picturesque resorts and world-class diving. Ask us for extension ideas. The following itinerary should be seen as an approximate guide only and will depend largely on weather, sea conditions and opportunities as they arise. Please be aware that the island visits and activities noted in the itinerary are a sample only and may vary.

Meals:  B