Sea kayaking through the tropical Yasawa Islands

Kayakers exploring limestone channels in the Yasawa Islands

Turquoise lagoons and sand cays in the Yasawa archipelago

Beachside expedition camp on a remote Fijian island - Ultimate Yasawa Sea Kayak Expedition, Fiji

Beachside expedition camp on a remote Fijian island | Al Bakker

Kayaking through sheltered mangrove waterways

Coral reefs and coastal paddling in the South Pacific - Ultimate Yasawa Sea Kayak Expedition, Fiji

Coral reefs and coastal paddling in the South Pacific | Al Bakker

Ultimate Yasawa Sea Kayak Expedition

Remote kayak journey with excellent guides

Fiji

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3 reviews

9 Days from

Trip Code: YSU

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Essential Information

Duration

9 Days

Activities

6 days kayaking
Snorkelling

Accommodation

6 nights camping
2 nights hotel

Meals

7 Dinners
8 Lunches
8 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading: Moderate to Challenging
This trip is designed for paddlers who have previous experience (intermediate paddling standards or higher). We will mostly paddle single kayaks but would like to have at least one double along for safety reasons. We ask that you prepare for the trip by doing some regular paddling prior to the trip. We will paddle loaded kayaks enabling us to be self-sufficient during the trip. The degree of difficulty of the trip will depend on the weather we encounter. The sea and weather conditions in the outer islands are predominantly stable but in windier conditions we may require a full days paddling. There will be at least two open water crossings with accompanying swell. An "average" paddling day will range from five to six hours and we mix in as much snorkelling and exploration walking as we can fit in. The approximate distance we expect to paddle is around 90 kilometres. We ask that all participants expect an adventure and we will amend the itinerary to take advantage of the weather and opportunities as they arise. To ensure you have a safe and enjoyable paddling holiday your kayaking standard for paddling traditional sea kayaks with spray skirts should be of an intermediate level, combined with an adventurous attitude. Please note that you will be required to complete a kayak experience form when booking this trip. The activity of paddling could be compared to brisk walking or cycling. The degree of difficulty of the trip will depend on the weather we encounter. The sea and weather conditions in the Yasawas are predominantly stable but some days may require a full days paddling due to prevailing winds and distances of approx. 11 - 20 km. The fitter you are generally, the more you will enjoy the paddling and the greater your resistance to illness. It is a good idea to begin some form of regular exercise well before the trip. Walking, jogging, cycling, aerobics and swimming are all worthwhile methods for achieving a reasonable level of fitness. For paddling, the best exercise is paddling or swimming for developing upper body strength. If you can manage a half-day paddling a kayak on your local harbour or lake, albeit with stops along the way, you will cope with a moderate graded trip. Speed is not the essence; stamina, confidence and continuity are. To prepare for a paddling holiday we recommend you take every opportunity to hire/borrow a kayak and head out for a paddle on your local harbour. If you are unable to do any paddling, any upper body training such as swimming is highly recommended.
6 / 10
Moderate to Challenging

Carbon Footprint

44kg of CO₂-e PP per day

(354kg of CO₂-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

Experience the full length of the Yasawa chain by kayak
Explore Fiji with challenging and rewarding kayaking
Snorkel untouched reefs and explore limestone caves
Engage with local village life and Fijian hospitality
Support local communities and travel sustainably
Discover lesser-known beaches, coral reefs and islets

Overview

The Yasawa Islands are a superb playground for sea kayakers. A region of sparkling azure waters and white sandy beaches fringed by pristine coral reefs, the chain of sixteen islands are located north-west of Fiji's main island, Viti Levu. For six days we paddle in modern expedition-style kayaks through this remote paradise. We follow an itinerary dictated by the winds and the tides. During the trip we will stop at uninhabited beaches to enjoy picnic lunches, snorkel in the clear South Pacific water and undertake several open water crossings. We will kayak for five to six hours each day, leaving plenty of opportunity for swimming, visiting nearby traditional villages or exploring secluded coves. Camp each night will be on a pristine beach or near a traditional Fijian village where the friendly local people are always happy to share their culture, traditions and history.

Itinerary

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On arrival in Nadi, a free airport to hotel transfer will be provided by the hotel. Upon leaving customs, a Fiji Visitors Bureau agent will show you where the transfer shuttle bus is waiting. The group trip briefing with your guide will be held at 8:00pm in the hotel. If your flight arrives after this, please advise our office so we can arrange an alternate briefing for you. The trip briefng will last for approximately an hour, so it’s a good idea to eat dinner prior to the meeting. Dinner tonight is not included in the trip cost. Overnight hotel: Tanoa International Hotel Nadi (or similar).

Meals: Nil

We have an early start to the day in order to meet our boat transfer at Denarau marina for the 8.45am boat to the islands. The Yasawa Flyer, the boat servicing the Yasawas, is a 267-passenger catamaran. All luggage can be taken with you on the boat, but please do keep your valuables on your person during the journey. It’s a good idea to bring some snacks and reading matter for the boat transfer. The Flyer transports us approximately 72 kms to Tavewa Island and the Blue Lagoon, arriving at approximately 1.45 pm. From the Yasawa Flyer, we will transfer to our base on Tavewa Island by small island boat. The combination of reefs, close island grouping and shallow waters create the stunning aqua colours for which this area is famous. Our base camp has a dining bure (hut) and grassy campsites to pitch your tent. Your guide will issue watertight bags to carry your personal gear during the kayak trip. The bags are 20 litres in volume (about 2/3 the size of a pillow case). Luggage not wanted while kayaking can be stored in our shed on the island. After customising the kayaks and getting acquainted with the expedition gear, there will be an instructional paddling session before a short excursion in the lagoon. Watching the sunset from the beach, followed by a delicious tropical dinner, is a great way to end the first day in the islands. Overnight camping.

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we will load our kayaks and paddle 15 km to Navotua. With favourable tides, out lunch spot will occur en route where fringing reefs run directly off the beach. After rounding the point of Nacula Island we head for the small village of Navotua. The villagers here are particularly friendly, exuding a special warmth and offering an unforgettable reception. We will have time for a snorkel in the reefs off shore and explore the surrounds before settling in for the evening. (Note: snorkelling equipment is not included). Overnight camping.

Meals: B,L,D

We paddle to the caves at Sawa-I-Lau, a scenic island with sharp limestone peaks and salt water caves that make for fascinating exploring. We will then carry on to an uninhabited island with delightful snorkeling before returning to Navotua village. (paddle distance approx. 11 kms). We round out the day with afternoon entertainment provided by the village and an invitation to join the chief for a social kava party in the evening. (Kava is a non-alcoholic drink with mild, numbing effects). Overnight camping.

Meals: B,L,D

Today we paddle back to Tavewa, exploring the many inlets and bays of Nacula Island en route. Overnight camping.

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we’ll pack our snorkelling gear and picnic lunch and head off to explore the inner reaches of the Blue Lagoon, just off Matacawalevu Island. We seek out the best coral reefs, explore a delightful maze of sandbars and time permitting, visit the local primary school. Paddling distance today is approximately 15kms. Tonight, we repack for the southern leg of the journey. Overnight camping.

Meals: B,L,D

We’ll aim for a dawn start as we have a long paddling day. We round Matacawalevu, paddle along the length of Yaqueta Island and on to the large island of Naviti. On crossing Bligh Strait there is a great opportunity to troll and catch a fresh fish dinner. Paddling distance approximately 20 kms. Overnight camping.

Meals: B,L,D

We continue our paddle along Naviti Island, stopping for a swim or snorkel en route to Barefoot Manta resort on Drawaqa Island. On arrival, we’ll settle into our island accommodation and enjoy a relaxed tropical dinner at the resort’s restaurant. Paddling distance approximately 15kms.

Meals: B,L,D

Today the group will have the opportunity to snorkel with the magnificent manta rays that feed in the narrow channel between Drawaqa and Naviti Islands, an amazing experience and a highlight of the trip. After lunch it’s time to farewell your guides before departing on the Yasawa Flyer at 3pm for the journey back to Nadi. The trip concludes on arrival at Denarau Marina in Nadi at approximately 6:00pm. Trip concludes. Accommodation on this night (and transfers to your hotel) are not included in the trip cost. If departing Fiji the evening of Day 9, we recommend not booking a flight that departs before 10.00pm. Please ask your consultant for accommodation suggestions in Nadi or you may like to extend your stay in the Yasawas at one of the resorts and return to the mainland on a later day. If you would like to stay longer on the islands, please let us know at least 6 weeks prior to your trip departure date so we can change your boat reservation (note - boat surcharge may be applicable).

Meals: B,L

Ready to start your adventure?

3 scheduled departures between 10 Jul 2027 and 2 Oct 2027.

Departs 10 Jul 2027 – ends 18 Jul 2027 (9 days)
Departs 7 Aug 2027 – ends 15 Aug 2027 (9 days)
Departs 2 Oct 2027 – ends 10 Oct 2027 (9 days)

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What's included?

Included

8 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 7 dinners
Professional guides
Hotel accommodation on a twin share basis
Internal boat transfers
Single sea kayaks (doubles on request), paddles, life jackets and safety equipment
2 person tents
Solo Travellers can enjoy a Single tent, at no extra charge, on request
Group camping equipment
Sleeping mats
Watertight drybag for personal gear (25L)
Group first aid kit

Not included

International flights
Arrival and departure transfers
Snorkelling equipment
Items of a personal nature such as laundry, phone calls etc.
Meals not indicated in the itinerary
Aerated and alcoholic drinks
Tips
Airport and departure taxes
Travel insurance
Visas

Reviews (3)

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Kayaking in remote parts of Fiji with very few tourists around meant our experience was special and authentic.

The guides were awesome. The food was fabulous with fish being caught and cooked that night for dinner.

Conditions were challenging but within the capabilities of the group. Kayaking experience definitely necessary for this one.

The snorkelling was a treat, and swimming with mantas at our end destination magical.

I didn't want it to end.

Anne-Maree Kelleher|Brookvale, NSW Australia

28 Jul 2024

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A great adventure - expertly led and organised. The Yasawa Islands were everything you imagined unspoilt tropical islands to be and more. The Fijian people were wonderful everywhere we went - in the Yasawas or on the mainland. The conditions can be challenging at times - especially during the longer island to island crossings - so fitness counts on this 11 day trip.

Chris Stavropoulos|Kingsgrove, NSW

10 Aug 2022

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Exceeded expectations, food and equipment is of a very good standard (other than one or 2 of the spray skirts), near new 3P tents provided. Only minor complaint is that the itinerary is not current - they don't have access to one of the islands any more.

RB|Australia

3 Oct 2017

Extra trip info

Will My Trip Run?FAQs

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.

Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.

Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.

Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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The Yasawas are a chain of 16 volcanic islands renowned for their stunning natural beauty, from pristine beaches to vibrant coral reefs. They provide the perfect setting for adventure, allowing paddlers to explore remote beaches, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and interact with the warm and welcoming local communities. SSV has been paddling these waters for over 30 years, drawing on our deep local connections and experience to offer unique and immersive guided kayaking adventures.

Days are full and invigorating. You’ll start with breakfast and a briefing before kayaking between islands, snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, or visiting local villages. Lunch is often on a secluded beach. Our Ultimate Yasawa Sea Kayak Expedition requires endurance with longer paddles suited to active adventurers or those with some prior paddling experience.

The Ultimate Yasawa Sea Kayak Expedition is tailored for paddlers with more experience or fit beginners eager for a challenge, including longer distances and potential open-water crossings. Everyone must complete a Kayak Experience form.

The marine environment here is rich with life; you may encounter manta rays, sea turtles and myriad tropical fish species. The islands themselves host diverse birdlife, bats and offer a mix of open grasslands, dry woodlands and tropical forest.

The trip provides immersive cultural experiences, allowing you to interact with local communities, participate in traditional kava ceremonies, and experience Fijian hospitality. All our trips are escorted by local guides and guests get to spend a night in a local village where they are treated to a traditional Meke and the chance to simply relax and interact with locals.

All meals during our trips are freshly prepared using local produce and cater to a variety of dietary needs. Accommodations include comfortable hotels at the beginning and end of the trips, standing camps with stretcher beds at our Tavewa basecamp, and screened two-person tents with thermarest mattresses for remote beach camping and village visits. For a unique local experience, upgrades to private beachside huts in Navotua are available, subject to availability. The Ultimate Yasawa Sea Kayak Expedition concludes with a relaxing final night at a cosy resort, providing a perfect end to your adventure.

Essentials include lightweight, quick-dry clothing, robust water shoes, and personal snorkelling gear. For daily needs, bring a small dry bag. We will provide all kayaking and safety equipment, including kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and first aid kits. Also included are watertight bags for your personal gear and camping equipment. There is a support vessel that carries the tents but pax will have a dry bag with their personal items. It is a 25L dry bag.

The ideal time to visit Fiji for kayaking is during the dry season from May to November, which offers milder temperatures and less rainfall. We schedule trips primarily within this window to ensure the best possible conditions for our guests. The early and late parts of the season (May and October) often feature warmer temperatures and gentler breezes, making them particularly pleasant. For wildlife enthusiasts, the months of June through August are best for spotting manta rays, a highlight of the Yasawas’ marine life.

This kayaking adventure in the Yasawa Islands is generally suitable for individuals aged 14 and up.

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Ultimate Yasawa Sea Kayak Expedition

Trip highlights

Overview

Itinerary

Ready to start your adventure?