Fiji
Giant Trevelly in a South Pacific Paradise

Sample Itinerary

The immense areas of fishable waters with very little pressure separate Fiji from the more famous fishing venues. The rich reef ecosystem and nearby blue water is home to over forty species of gamefish - something for every angler. Fiji is just now being discovered for its outstanding trevally fishing. Giant trevally, blue trevally and other trevally species patrol the surf, the edges of flats and reefs, and along the offshore reefs. Light tackle angling produces the best results, with whip-casters throwing plugs and pencil poppers over reefs for GTs that can go over 80 pounds. Trevally can also be caught trolling surface poppers and swimming plugs. Casting and trolling poppers will elicit strikes from large barracuda, snappers, and coral trout too. When the tide is moving, rising or falling, anglers can expect consistent action, and drawing an explosive strike on just about every cast is not uncommon. Fly anglers can also spend their days drifting (in the runabout) some of the world's most beautiful reef flats and sight-fishing for trevally. Blind casting the reefs is also very effective. If you're looking for bigger offshore game, you may get shots at mahi mahi (dorado), wahoo or tuna.

Big Game Trolling -Where the reef ends, the blue water begins. Current lines outside of the reefs provide excellent offshore angling for yellowfin tuna, skipjack, wahoo, marlin, mackerel (Walu), and mahi mahi (dorado) as well as occasional trevally and monster barracuda. Fly fishing at night can also be very effective for barracuda, trevally, and other nocturnal species.

Diving, Snorkeling, and Spear Fishing -Experience some of the best spear fishing in the world along pristine reefs loaded with different species of fish, crabs, lobsters, and octopi. Divers can immerse themselves in underwater surroundings that are unparalleled on earth. Snorkelers can roam countless lagoons, bays, and protected reefs accessed from sea kayaks or from one of the launches. Snorkeling equipment is provided aboard the Island Voyager or you can bring your own. Diving equipment must be arranged for in advance of your trip, or you can bring your own.

A trip on the Island Voyager is for everyone! You can spend your days sunning on the large top deck, or on one of the numerous deserted white sand beaches. Swim or sea kayak in blue lagoons where the water is literally glass clear. Surf perfect waves all by yourself. On land, visit some of the small Fijian villages rich with history and culture, or leave civilization entirely on a hike into the wilderness of the islands. Back on the boat sip an evening cocktail, then enjoy a fine meal while the warm South Pacific breeze washes over you. Or simply do nothing at all.



Sample Itinerary

Day 1
Morning arrival in Nadi, Fiji via non-stop flight from Los Angeles. You will be met at the airport by the Island Voyager staff, and transferred to the boat, about a fifteen minute drive. You are welcomed aboard the boat, and given a brief orientation and safety tour. While you settle into your stateroom, the crew will set sail for the Yasawa Island group, about a five hour cruise across a gorgeous turquoise strait. On the way you'll be served a delicious lunch. Trolling rods can be set out for those who want to fish for big game.

Afternoon arrival at a remote island in the Yasawa's. You'll have time for a swim or a walk on the beach before cocktails and dinner. This evening you will discuss your plans for the coming week. An initial itinerary will have been established based on your stated pre-trip desires, however, the itinerary is subject to change, as are activities, based on your changing desires during the cruise.

Relax after dinner on one of the one-air decks and listen to crew members play and sing island music.

Day 2

Breakfast on the boat's upper deck to give you a spectacular view of the surrounding islands in the Yasawa group. If you wake up early you can go for a swim right off the boat. Anglers will meet with their gear and be ready to go fishing around 7:30 a.m. Fishing for trevally and other species will focus on nearby flats and reefs. Non-anglers are free to decide on their activities--catch rays on the upper deck, sea kayak, snorkel, or stroll and relax on nearby deserted beaches.

Lunch will be served on the boat. Afternoon fishing and other optional activities will resume after lunch and continue as long as you wish, but these activities usually end with everyone back on the boat around 5 p.m.

Relax on the deck and enjoy home-cooked snacks and appetizers, everything from fresh ceviche to grilled shrimp. Catch a shower before dinner, then enjoy another fine meal while you watch the sunset over the South Pacific.

Day 3 and on

Similar to Day 2 for the remainder of your trip. The Island Voyager will move during your trip, usually early in the morning, or late in the afternoon, though depending on the activities you have chosen, the ship can also move during the day, or be used during the day for offshore big game fishing.

If diving is an activity you have chosen, the boat will spend time in the best diving areas, and meet PADI certified dive personnel at specific islands or dive sites.

Fishing, snorkeling, swimming and pristine beaches are fabulous throughout the island groups. Anglers will experience a variety of flats, and drift reefs and drops throughout the trip. The 25' runabout will be at the disposal of anglers, and will also be used, along with the 12' pontoon boat to run people to various islands, cays, and atolls.

Each evening you will coordinate your next day's activities with the crew. Remember that activities are flexible according to your daily desires. Anglers who want to fish until they drop will be accommodated. At some point in your trip, you will go ashore to visit native villages, and one evening you'll experience an authentic native luau feast.

Departure Day
Most flights we suggest depart from Nadi late evening. This means you'll be able to enjoy most of your final day aboard the Island Voyager. The crew will have you back in port at Nadi in time to transfer you to the airport for your flight home. Please explore our other fine international destinations.


Season

Year-round. The Island Voyager can take up to 10 guests, but we recommend no more than 8, unless you have an intact group. Discounts may apply to intact groups. Please inquire.

We are now booking 8-day packages aboard the Island Voyager, with trips starting March 16, 2004. You can choose your arrival and departure dates to suit your schedule based on availability.

Trip Expenses

Prices range from $2,300 to $3,200 per person double occupancy (single staterooms available, first come first serve) depending on the activity options and cabin options you choose. Includes all ground transfers in Nadi, all meals, snacks, appetizers, beer and wine, soft drinks, accommodations on the Island Voyager, all fishing, use of snorkel gear and sea kayaks, runabout and pontoon boats, and other activities. Additional expenses: Air fare to/from Nadi, Fiji, optional gratuities. Diving must be scheduled prior to your arrival, though sometimes diving can be arranged after you arrive based on availability. We can assist with discounted contract air fares--non-stop flights Los Angeles to Nadi, Fiji. Flights also available with a stop-over in Honolulu.