Fiji is a paradise for all types of water sports, from sailing, kayaking, surfing, swimming and snorkelling to parasailing and water skiing. Explore the jungle aboard a river raft, hike along bush trails into the tropical rainforest of Bouma National Park or just relax poolside with a cocktail and a fresh sea breeze. Afterwards, enjoy a kava ceremony and live entertainment dinner at your resort.

Scuba diving – Encircled by a huge reef, the Fiji archipelago of 300 islands offers a fantastic variety of colourful soft corals, more than 1200 species of fish and 12 species of whale and dolphin. The waters off Beqa lagoon, Taveuni Island and Kadavu Island, with their strong currents, are especially rich in fish life and offer some of the best diving in Fiji.

Surfing – Experienced surfers head to the exciting reef breaks off Tavarua in the Mamanuca Group and off Beqa and Kadavu in the southern islands. Surf the famous Namotu Left and Cloudbreak in the Mamanucas – recognised as the most challenging surf breaks in the South Pacific. Or try Frigates Passage, a left-hand break in the middle of the ocean with a reputation for reliable big barrels and long rides. Best time is from April to December. For the complete surfing experience, several live-aboard surf charters operate around the islands.

Hiking – Explore Fiji’s network of marked nature trails either independently or on an organised guided walk. Tours include birdwatching in the Colo-i-Suva Forest Park, ecotourism and swimming in the park's waterfalls. Try the Lavena Coastal Walk along the south-eastern coastline of Taveuni, ending at the Wainabau Waterfalls or the Vidawa Forest Walk, a guided trip through the Bouma Forest Park. Look out for exotic wildlife such as fruit bats, parrots and marine turtles.

Bamboo rafting – Bilibili is the Fijian word for raft, a craft traditionally made out of bamboo, and used for local river trips. Take a ‘Cave Tour’ to experience the wonders of Sigatoka Valley, the Naihehe Caves and the history of notorious Tongan warriors.

Swimming – Be energetic and do laps along the beach or relax and splash around in a magical setting of soft sand, tropical blooms and lush greenery.

Fishing – Fish the deep channels around the reefs of Beqa and Kadavu in the Southern Islands for Spanish mackerel, marlin, yellow fin tuna, trevally and dolphin fish. Or head to the northern coast of Taveuni around Matangi Island and Laucala.

Cruising – Discover the stunning Mamanuca and Yasawa island groups. Sunbathe on the bowsprit and watch for dolphins playing in the bow wave as you cruise for a day aboard the brigantine Ra Marama to pristine Tivua Island – a sanctuary for turtles during the nesting season. Swim or snorkel in the warm waters, explore the island or simply relax on the pristine sandy beaches.

Kayaking – Paddle around the protected waters of the Yasawa Group and Kadavu in the Southern Islands – the best months are from May to October when the seas are calmer. Almost every beach resort offers sea kayaks for guests to paddle around the nearby coastline or to explore further.

Horseback riding – Go for a ride along Natadola Beach and into the lush vegetation to discover the local area.

Golf – Tee-off among the coconut trees and try not to be distracted by the stunning sea and mountain views. On Vitu Levi try the Denarau Golf Club (Nadi), Pacific Harbour Golf Club (Suva) or Fiji Golf Club (Suva).

Other great beaches

Fiji has literally thousands of stunning beaches, typically swept clean by resort staff each morning, and situated within different island groups:

Mamanuca Islands – Around 20 mostly small and hilly islands with grassy ridges, palm-fringed white sandy beaches and pristine waters that capture the essence of Fiji. These islands are perfect for relaxing poolside or on the beach with a cocktail and offer lots of water activities including sailing, kayaking, snorkelling and para-sailing. A few islands are still uninhabited but may be visited on a day cruise from Nadi or a local beach resort.

Yasawa Islands – Around two hours by fast catamaran ferry from Nadi, the Yasawa chain offers more than 20 sun-kissed islands, which are often the main feature of luxury overnight cruises.

Southern Islands – Head to Vatulele Island for some excellent fine white sandy beaches in secluded tropical surroundings. Or try Kadavu and Beqa islands for rugged coastlines and some nice beaches.

Northern Islands – Check out Matangi and Qamea for some great beaches as well as the larger islands of Taveuni and Vanua Levu.

SPECIAL TRIP : FIJI

Dates Sunday November 14 – Sunday November 21, 2010

Trip Itinerary

November 14th
Arrive in Fiji. Flights to Kadavu run once per day, and schedules require an overnight stay and flight the next day. Accommodation and airport transfers will be pre-arranged for the overnight stay in Nadi, twin share at Smugglers Cove Resort.

November 15th
Late morning transfer to the airport, where you will board your connecting domestic for the spectacular 40min flight to Kadavu Island. Upon arrival you will be transferred by boat along the extensive scenic lagoon to Oneta Resort, your home and base for the next 6 nights. Anglers are very comfortably accommodated in Oneta’s ‘big bure’, while excellent meals prepared using the freshest ingredients keep anglers’ energy levels up for the week.

November 16th – 19th inclusive
Board your vessel each morning and commence your charter, within minutes you will be fishing the endless locations on offer. Fishing is onboard a fully set up 28ft centre console sport fisher. During this adventure you’ll fish the Great Astrolabe Reef system, Solo Reef, extensive lagoons, islands, bommies, inshore mangroves and underwater sea mounts not only offering superb fishing but spectacular scenery.

Target a variety of species from GT’s and red bass to big yellowfin tuna and spanish mackeral. If jigging is your thing then dogtooth tuna, GTs, red bass, jobfish, pukapuka and more can be found around the deep reefs, drop offs and seamounts. After an enjoyable days fishing you will return to your resort where you can enjoy the evening at your own leisure, have a swim or cold beer at the end of the day. A massage service is also available at the days end to iron out any fishing-induced aches!

November 20th
Spend the morning at your own leisure, then a boat transfer will be provided from Ono resort to the airport in time for your early afternoon flight. Upon arrival into Nadi, transfer pick up to Smugglers Cove for overnight twin share accommodation.

November 21th
Transfer will be provided to Nadi airport in time for your return international flight.

Inclusions
All land and boat transfers
5 x nights accommodation staying at Oneta Resort including all meals
2 x nights twin share accommodation at Smuggler’s Cove Resort, Nadi
4 x days sport fishing aboard a fully equipped 28 foot centre console sport fisher
Lunch, snacks and bottled water whilst on board
Experienced captain and crew

Price AUD$2380.00 per angler*

*based on a 4 angler booking.
Prices are a guide only and may be subject to change.

OCTOBER 2010 Ratua Private Island Game Fishing

Prepare for a very special fishing experience in an untouched paradise! This year’s BlueWater Readers’ Trip is based out of Ratua Private Island, located off Espiritu Santo in Vanuatu’s remote north. This area offers a whole new level of bluewater game and sport fishing…

Incredible Game Fishing
With gamefishing of the highest calibre available throughout the waters around Santo, this trip is ideal for BlueWater anglers looking to fish remote and rarely visited destinations. Anglers will be targeting Vanuatu’s famous XOS blue marlin and other pelagic species such as wahoo, sailfish, yellowfin & dogtooth tuna, mahi mahi and many more…

The Location
Ratua is the ideal destination for the discerning angler and has been created with exquisite attention to every detail, providing guests with an unforgettable experience. It is self-sufficient, eco friendly, and can only be described as absolute luxury. This Readers’ Trip is perfect for partners and non-anglers to come and be part of the experience, with plenty of options to keep everybody spoiled including water sports, horse riding, therapeutic spa facilities, cultural tours or simply spending the day on a private lounge on your own private beach.

Dates 22nd – 29th October 2010

Trip Itinerary

Friday 22nd October
Arrive into Espiritu Santo where you will be met by a representative of Ratua Private Island resort. After a short van ride to a waiting vessel, you will be transferred by boat to your luxury resort base for the next week. During your time on the island you won’t have to lift a finger; the resort’s facilities and staff are solely focused to make your adventure as lavish as possible.

Saturday 23rd – Wednesday 27th October
Board the 43ft Cabo each morning from the pier located in front of the Yacht Club. Depart Ratua and fish the productive waters surrounding Santo and it’s neighbouring islands, which offer phenomenal game and sport fishing. Within these waters lie a wide variety of fish-holding structure, including underwater seamounts, canyons, reef systems and drop offs. From Ratua, anglers can target Vanuatu’s famous blue marlin as well as various tuna, sailfish, wahoo and mahi mahi among many other species’ that inhabit these waters.

On Monday the 25th of October, take a day’s break between fishing to recharge and relax, taking advantage of everything the island and surrounding area has to offer. Organise a gourmet picnic on a remote beach, a guided trek through caves, rivers and jungles, or discover the incredible Blue Hole lagoon by canoe. Alternatively, you don’t have to leave the island; spend the day relaxing at the Yacht Club or exploring your pristine surrounds on horseback. At the end of each day, return to the island to relieve tired muscles with a massage, or relax over a few drinks at the Yacht Club before an incredible dinner featuring island-grown produce, complemented with fine international wines.

Thursday 28th October
After breakfast, your group will be transferred from Ratua by boat in time for your domestic flight from Santo to Port Vila, departing at 11:30am, and arriving at 12:20pm. Upon arrival in Port Vila, you will be transferred to the Grand Hotel & Casino where you can unpack and spend the evening at your leisure.

Friday 29th October
After breakfast, a transfer will be provided from the Grand Hotel & Casino to Port Vila airport in time for your return international flight.

Inclusions
6 x nights accommodation staying at Ratua Private Island, inclusive of all meals and alcohol.
1 x night single accommodation at The Grand Hotel & Casino, Port Vila
4 x days game fishing aboard a fully equipped 43ft Cabo Sportfisher
All land and boat transfers
Lunch, snacks and bottled water whilst on board
Experienced captain & crew

AUD$4420.00 per angler
AUD$1925.00 per non-angling partner

Ocean Blue Fishing Adventures is a booking agent for companies that provide adventures to the public. Ocean Blue Fishing Adventures is not the provider of these adventures. Changing or cancelling your booking at any time will incur a fee. Changes will incur a $50 per person administration fee, plus any relevant fees from the fishing operator. Cancellations will incur an administration fee of either $50 per person or 5% of your booking payment, which ever is greater, plus any relevant fees from the fishing operator. If the value of your adventure is less than $50 a 100% cancellation fee will apply. Cancellations or changes to your booking require a minimum of 31 days written notice prior to the booked date. A transaction fee of $3.50 will apply to each booking. A $25 fee will apply to any credit card chargebacks. If you fail to show at the booked time, or on the booked day, of your fishing adventure we cannot offer a refund or credit.