Tivua is the desert island of the cartoon: a low mound of sand, a tuft of palms and casuarinas, a long jetty and coral all around. It lies north of the main ferry route, off the coast between Nadi and Lautoka.
For decades it has been the destination of Captain Cook Cruises’ day trips from Port Denarau, traditionally aboard a tall sailing ship — a slow, sociable sail out with the crew singing, a day on the beach, and a sail home. There is no resort and the island takes only the ship’s own passengers.
Top things to do: Tivua Island
Snorkel the coral gardens
The reef starts a few metres from the sand, and guided snorkelling tours and a glass-bottom boat are part of the day. Introductory dives can usually be added.
Do very little
Kayaks and paddle boards are there if you want them; hammocks and shade if you do not. A buffet lunch is served on the island.
Join the kava ceremony
The crew normally hold a short welcome ceremony and explain how kava is mixed and drunk — a relaxed first taste before a village visit.
How to get to Tivua Island
- By day cruise only: trips leave Port Denarau in the morning and return late afternoon, with transfers from Nadi and Denarau hotels. See the Captain Cook cruise on our day cruises page.
- Check the destination: at the time of writing the operator’s GetYourGuide listing describes a sail to Kadavu Lailai rather than naming Tivua. The style of day is the same, but confirm which island your date visits.
Insider tips
- The sail takes about an hour and a half each way — longer than the fast catamarans, and part of the experience.
- Drinks and lunch are normally included; diving and massages are extra.
- If you are prone to seasickness, sit amidships and take your remedy before boarding.
Tours that include Tivua Island
These bookable experiences are the easiest way to see Tivua Island:
Tall-ship day cruise from €100 Fiji: Captain Cook Cruises – All-Inclusive Island & Reef Day Trip
Captain Cook Cruises has run sailing day trips from Denarau to a small coral island for many years — long to Tivua, while the current listing describes a sail to Kadavu Lailai. Either way the formula is the same: a slow sail, a beach, lunch, drinks and guided snorkelling. Check the listing for the island your date visits.
- Sail out on a traditional-style sailing ship
- Lunch and drinks included
- Snorkelling over coral gardens from the beach
