Fiji’s Denarau Island serves up excellent cruise options for every type of traveler. The most worthwhile half-day excursion is the Finding Nemo catamaran cruise to South Sea Island – perfect for families who want to snorkel and kayak without committing a full day. I’m particularly fond of the Robinson Crusoe sunset cruise, which offers the best cultural bang-for-your-buck with authentic Fijian dining and performances.
For longer adventures, the 12-day Northern Lau and Kadavu Discovery cruise lets you truly experience remote island life, while the 3-night Blue Lagoon Explorer hits the sweet spot for those with limited time. The Mana Island day cruise stands out for combining resort amenities with excellent water activities.
Let’s explore the top boat tours from Denarau Island.
Key Points
- The Finding Nemo Half Day Cruise offers a scenic catamaran ride from Denarau Island to South Sea Island with various activities and amenities.
- The Robinson Crusoe Sunset Cruise provides a 4-hour evening tour with a jungle cruise, Fijian lovo dinner, and cultural entertainment.
- The 12-Day Remote Northern Lau and Kadavu Discovery Cruise allows in-depth exploration of Fiji’s northern and southern islands with guided tours and water activities.
- The Blue Lagoon Cruises – Explorer Cruise is a 3-night cruise that offers a premium onboard experience with meals, beverages, and activities included.
- The Mana Island Day Cruise provides full-day or half-day excursions from Denarau Island to Mana Island with swimming, snorkeling, and access to resort amenities.
Finding Nemo – Half Day Cruise to South Sea Island
The Finding Nemo – Half Day Cruise to South Sea Island is a popular tour that takes visitors from Denarau Island in Fiji on a scenic catamaran ride to the stunning South Sea Island.
This half-day adventure includes free transfers, a semi-submersible coral viewer, and a range of activities on the island, such as swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The air-conditioned catamaran offers free WiFi, and lunch is included.
While many travelers enjoy the beautiful location and friendly staff, some feel the tour is too rushed, suggesting a full-day option for a more relaxed experience, especially for families with children.
Read our full review: Finding Nemo – Half Day Cruise to South Sea Island Review
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Robinson Crusoe Sunset Cruise Including Dinner, Cultural Show & Transfers
For those seeking a more immersive cultural experience in Denarau, the Robinson Crusoe Sunset Cruise offers an evening of enchanting entertainment.
Priced from $119.99 per person, this 4-hour tour includes a 30-minute jungle cruise, a traditional Fijian lovo dinner, and a fire walking demonstration.
Guests can also enjoy a “Legends of the Pacific” show with fire and knife dancers, as well as a bonfire and string band serenaders.
While travel time can be up to 2.5 hours, the experience’s highlights include the warm welcome, engaging cultural activities, and spectacular entertainment.
Reviewers recommend bringing insect repellent and cash for optional purchases.
Read our full review: Robinson Crusoe Sunset Cruise Including Dinner, Cultural Show & Transfers Review
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12-Day Remote Northern Lau and Kadavu Discovery Cruise
This 12-day Remote Northern Lau and Kadavu Discovery Cruise takes travelers on an in-depth exploration of Fiji’s northern and southern island regions.
Beginning and ending in Denarau Island, the cruise includes guided island and village tours, as well as snorkeling, kayaking, and glass-bottom boat excursions led by an onboard marine biologist.
Meals, local beverages, and hotel pickup are included.
While the cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible, it can accommodate children, and most travelers can participate.
With a maximum capacity of 130 people and an overall 4.5/5 rating based on 9 reviews, this cruise offers a comprehensive discovery of Fiji’s remote northern and southern island destinations.
Read our full review: 12-Day Remote Northern Lau and Kadavu Discovery Cruise Review
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Blue Lagoon Cruises – Explorer Cruise – 3 Nights
Offering a more compact Fijian adventure, the Blue Lagoon Cruises – Explorer Cruise – 3 Nights takes travelers on a 4-day expedition to explore the stunning Modriki Island, swim with reef sharks, and enjoy local Fijian culture.
With an average rating of 4.5/5 from 17 reviews, this cruise is ideal for those with limited time to discover the Fiji Islands.
Onboard, guests enjoy a premium experience, including meals, beverages, accommodation, activities, and use of snorkeling gear and other facilities.
While some guests have expressed concerns about food quality and service, the cruise remains a popular choice for those seeking a comprehensive Fiji experience in a short timeframe.
Read our full review: Blue Lagoon Cruises – Explorer Cruise – 3 Nights Review
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Mana Island Day Cruise
Departing from Treasure Island, Beachcomber Island, or Denarau Marina, the Mana Island Day Cruise provides travelers with a full-day (6 hours) or half-day (3 hours) excursion to explore the idyllic Mana Island.
With an overall rating of 3.5 stars from 34 reviews, the cruise offers activities like swimming, snorkeling, and optional water sports, along with a barbecue lunch.
Guests can access Mana Island Resort’s amenities, including pools, lounges, beaches, and a bar.
While some customers enjoyed the beautiful island and activities, others found the resort rundown and staff unwelcoming.
Complimentary coach transfers are available from most Nadi, Denarau, and Wailoaloa hotels, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Mana Island Day Cruise Review
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Barefoot Kuata Day Cruise From Denarau
For those seeking a day of island exploration, the Barefoot Kuata Day Cruise from Denarau provides a scenic 5-hour excursion to the picturesque Kuata Island.
The high-speed catamaran takes visitors on a 2-hour cruise through the Mamanuca Islands, with opportunities to snorkel, kayak, and explore the beach.
The cruise includes lunch at the Barefoot Kuata Resort, as well as access to their facilities. Complimentary coach transfers are available from various hotels.
While the reviews are generally positive, some guests have noted additional charges and occasional cleanliness issues.
Read our full review: Barefoot Kuata Day Cruise From Denarau Review
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Super Saver Combo: Tivua Island Day Cruise + Sunset Dinner Cruise in Fiji
The Super Saver Combo packages a Tivua Island Day Cruise and a Sunset Dinner Cruise, providing visitors with a comprehensive Fijian island experience.
The day cruise includes a BBQ lunch, water activities, and an open bar, while the evening cruise offers a barbecue dinner and traditional cultural entertainment.
Guests can choose to take both cruises on the same day or on separate days, with the exception of Mondays when the dinner cruise is unavailable.
The package includes hotel pickup, amenities like snorkeling gear, and optional add-ons like alcoholic beverages and spa treatments.
With a 4.5-star rating, the combo is a popular choice for a memorable Fiji adventure.
Read our full review: Super Saver Combo: Tivua Island Day Cruise + Sunset Dinner Cruise in Fiji Review
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8-Day Remote Northern Discovery Cruise
On this 8-day remote northern discovery cruise from Denarau Island, Fiji, travelers can enjoy the region’s natural wonders and cultural experiences.
With a maximum capacity of 130 guests, the cruise offers guided activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and glass-bottom boat tours led by a marine biologist.
Guests can also enjoy island and village tours, as well as meals, local beverages, and hotel transfers.
The cruise adheres to health and safety guidelines, including restrictions on diving and a health questionnaire.
Most travelers can participate, and the meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation on Denarau Island.
Read our full review: 8-Day Remote Northern Discovery Cruise Review
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7 Night Remote Lau Discovery Cruise
At night, travelers can embark on a 7-night Remote Lau Discovery Cruise from Denarau Island, Fiji. The cruise accommodates up to 130 travelers, with a minimum booking of 2 people.
Included are guided island and village tours, snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and glass-bottom boat tours with a marine biologist. Meals, local drinks, and hotel pickup are provided.
While the cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s near public transportation and stroller-friendly. Reviews indicate an overall rating of 3.5 stars.
Optional PADI diving and spa treatments are available for purchase. Travelers must receive confirmation within 48 hours of booking, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
Read our full review: 7 Night Remote Lau Discovery Cruise Review
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7-Night Yasawa Islands Fiji Cruise
Travelers exploring Fiji’s stunning Yasawa Islands can embark on a 7-night cruise that showcases the region’s rugged volcanic landscapes and diverse marine life.
Recommended by 93% of travelers and boasting a Badge of Excellence, this small-group cruise is ideal for families and first-time visitors.
Participants can enjoy guided island and village walks, snorkeling and glass-bottom boat tours led by a Marine Biologist, and the use of water sports equipment.
All meals, local beverages, and hotel transfers are included.
While the cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s near public transportation and requires a moderate level of physical fitness.
Read our full review: 7-Night Yasawa Islands Fiji Cruise Review
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Recap
Denarau Island offers a variety of cruises and boat tours catering to diverse interests. Whether you seek a half-day excursion, a multi-day remote discovery cruise, or a sunset dinner cruise, there’s an option to suit your preferences. With cultural experiences, scenic landscapes, and opportunities for relaxation, these water-based activities provide an excellent way to explore the beauty of Fiji.