The islands are steeped in mystery and legend. The Yasawa people live as they have done for centuries, keeping the spirit of the islands alive with their traditional and simple lifestyle. Blessed with dramatic volcanic peaks and sun-drenched white sand beaches, the Yasawa Islands is a haven for nature lovers and it’s a sailor dream for an adventurous ocean escapade. Further north, turquoise lagoons surround white sandy beaches. It includes the famous Blue Lagoon and as the name suggests, the water is the most inviting shades of blue you will ever see.
Many of the Yasawa islands are home to traditional island villages and it’s these Fijian people who help make this cruising adventure magical. This 12-day cruising adventure will include a series of day hops and overnight anchorages in peaceful sheltered bays at many of the following islands in the group; Kuata, Waya and Waya Lailai, Viwa, Naukacuva, Nanuya Balavu, Drawaqa, Naviti, Yaqeta, Matacawalevu, Nanuya Lailai, Tavewa and Nacula.
We’ll island-hop our way through the archipelago to standout spots like the awe-inspiring Sawa-i-Lau caves, swim with mesmerising mantas and discover delightful underwater coral gardens. There are secret beaches to discover, deserted bays to snorkel and scenic lookouts where you can watch the sun slip into the sea.
Famous for its natural beauty, the ‘Blue Lagoon’, is ringed by islands with soft rolling peaks. Coconut palms line the whitest sandy beaches you have ever seen and the water is a mix of aqua and turquoise, so stunning that you’ll want to dive right in and discover the coral reefs below. In the midst of the Blue Lagoon is what’s considered to be the jewel of the Yasawas – ‘Nanuya Lailai’. Dotted with palm trees and surrounded by a coral lagoon, the island is truly one of Fiji’s gems. The surrounding waters are alive with colourful fish and coral.
Sacred Sawa I Lau Caves
Referred to as ‘the very heart of the Yasawas’, the majestic Sawa I Lau Caves are one of the ‘must-do’ activities for sailors visiting the spectacular Blue Lagoon. The ancient limestone formations, carved by constant wave action, are hidden within a little island in the northern Yasawas. The history of the caves is legendary; the story goes that a young Chief once safely settled with his betrothed in the cave after her family threatened to marry her off to a rival Chief. Every day he would swim into this hidden grotto with food for the girl until eventually they both escaped to the safety of another island and to be together forever. The sacred Sawa I Lau Caves are also known as the resting place of the ten-headed ancient Fijian god, Ulutini.
Tourism Website Fiji