Plan a CruiseUpon arrival in Port Denarau, your ship will anchor offshore, and you will be tendered to the Port Denarau cruise terminal. This facility is conveniently situated at the heart of the island's top resorts, providing easy access to various activities organized within these hotels.
A unique aspect of visiting Fiji is encountering "Fiji time," which is a genuine cultural trait. When a local describes something as a "short walk" or an activity that will "take no time at all," it's advisable to ask for more detailed information regarding actual distances and expected durations to manage your schedule effectively.
Getting Around from the Port
Bula Bus: For a scenic tour around Denarau Island and convenient transport between resorts, consider the Bula Bus. An all-day pass for this service costs approximately 9 FJD.
Taxi to Nadi: A taxi ride into the nearby town of Nadi will cost about $10. While Nadi is described as an interesting town, it is not particularly known for its aesthetic appeal.
Day Cruises: Port Denarau serves as the primary departure point for numerous day cruises to the stunning offshore island resorts, offering a popular way to explore beyond the main island.
Attractions and Activities
Offshore Island Day Cruises: With Port Denarau being the hub for island excursions, you'll find a wide selection of day cruises to explore Fiji's picturesque offshore island resorts. These are ideal for enjoying beaches, snorkeling, and relaxing in beautiful surroundings.
Denarau Golf & Racquet Club: Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at the Denarau Golf & Racquet Club, which opened in 1993. This resort golf course features a challenging par 72 layout spanning 6538 meters.
Countryside Village Visits: For an experience away from the resort areas, consider venturing into the countryside to visit local villages. This offers a glimpse into authentic Fijian life, but remember to factor in "Fiji time" when planning your schedule, as local time estimations can be quite fluid.
Cruise Line vs. Independent Tours: It's often worthwhile to compare the excursions offered by your cruise line with those available from local operators at the port.
Dining & Shopping
Adjacent to the cruise terminal, you'll find a variety of amenities including several restaurants (such as a Hard Rock Cafe), a supermarket, a bakery, a hairdresser's, and local tour operators.
Most shops in Fiji open early, typically from 6:00 AM or 8:00 AM, and remain open until 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM on weekdays. On Saturdays, opening hours are generally from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM. While most shops close on Sundays and public holidays, essential services like restaurants, milk bars, and other vital shops remain open.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Fijian Dollar (FJD).
English is an official language and is widely spoken in major tourist areas like Nadi, Suva, and at the Port Denarau resorts. While you might encounter some difficulty with English on less touristy islands, learning a few basic phrases in Fijian or Hindustani (Hindi/Urdu) can be greatly appreciated by locals.