At Sea – October 25, 2025

 Today is a picture-perfect sea day — calm waters, a light breeze, and sunny skies, with the occasional island dotting the horizon as we stroll along the promenade deck. We’ve truly hit the sweet spot on this Legendary Voyage: enough ports behind us to feel accomplished, but still plenty of days ahead to savour the journey without thinking about going home. The vibe onboard is wonderfully relaxed, filled with conversations about the incredible places we’ve visited and the anticipation of the French Polynesian islands still to come. This, indeed, is what cruising the South Pacific is all about.

Even on a laid-back sea day, the action onboard never stops. We were honoured to attend a couple of officer-invited dinners, which offered a chance to get to know some of the ship’s senior team a little better. Our first dinner was with Mr. Darren Lewis, Hotel General Manager, and Ms, Melanny Orozco, the Guest Services Manager, in a lovely intimate setting for just the four of us. The second dinner was with Milena Whales, the Environmental Officer, at a group table — another delightful evening filled with great conversation and fine dining.

Last night was also a highlight as we joined the Fair on the Lido, a vibrant event run by the crew with impeccable precision. Carnival games, laughter, and the thrill of winning tickets made for loads of fun, with the chance to win some fantastic prizes if your number gets drawn.

Today, being a Sunday and a sea day, the perfect accompaniment was Sunday Brunch in the main dining room. A leisurely meal, casual conversation, and the gentle rhythm of the ship all make for a true day of relaxation. As we cruise toward our next port, the island nation of Tonga, still proudly a Kingdom in the South Pacific, it’s a moment to simply sit back, enjoy the sun, and savor the peaceful pace of life at sea.

 

Savusavu, Fiji – October 25, 2025

A New Port, Hooray!

After several journeys through the South Pacific and across the islands of Fiji, today marked a first for us — a brand-new port! Savusavu, tucked away on the island of Vanua Levu, greeted us with its lush hillsides, calm bay, and the warmest of welcomes. Known as “the hidden paradise of Fiji,” Savusavu has long been a favorite among yachts and divers, but this was our first visit, and we were eager to explore.

A Bit of Savusavu’s Story

Once a quiet trading post, Savusavu began to flourish in the late 19th century with the establishment of copra (dried coconut) plantations and the arrival of European settlers. Later, it became known for its geothermal hot springs — you can still see steam rising from the ground near the waterfront! Today, it’s a charming mix of local life, expat influence, and natural beauty, often called Fiji’s best-kept secret.

Shore Options and Local Charm

From the tender dock at the Cobra Shed Marina, a hub for both cruise passengers and independent travelers, options abound — from snorkeling and diving adventures to scenic drives and local market visits. We’d heard about the exceptional snorkeling here, especially at a spot called Split Rock, about a 15-minute drive away.

Taxi Tales and Travel Lessons

Our driver, a friendly accountant-turned-weekend-taxi-driver, quoted us $15 FJD (around $10 USD) for the trip. I countered with $7 USD, and we agreed on $10 USD each way — but only to be paid after the return trip. That little precaution turned out to be wise.

When our driver returned to pick us up, another couple had tried to claim his cab, even putting their gear in the back! Thankfully, he turned around, smiled, and told them politely, “Sorry, this taxi is for them,” pointing to us. Crisis averted — and a reminder that sometimes paying at the end really is the best policy.

Split Rock Snorkeling

Split Rock itself lived up to the hype — crystal-clear waters, colorful corals, and plenty of fish. It’s easy to see why divers and snorkelers love this spot. The beach area is small and quiet, ideal for a couple of hours of sun and sea before heading back to town.

Back in Town – Bula, Bula!

Savusavu’s main street is lined with small shops, local eateries, and the lively municipal market, where you can find everything from tropical fruit to handmade crafts. One fellow passenger last night at dinner dubbed it “Bula Bula Town” — and it’s easy to see why. Every few steps, someone greets you with a cheerful “Bula!” The friendliness here feels genuine, the pace slow, and the smiles contagious.

We made it back to the ship just after 3 p.m., in time for a late lunch and the end of an exciting baseball game (go Jays!). As we sailed away, we offered one last Bula to this hidden paradise — grateful for a perfect first visit and already hoping it won’t be the last.