If you’re dreaming of a relaxing day out on the water in Fiji, the South Sea Sailing Full Day Trip really deserves your attention. This experience promises a smooth, scenic sail around the stunning Mamanuca Islands on a modern, comfortably equipped catamaran, with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, unwind, and enjoy good food and drinks. It’s a fantastic way to see some of Fiji’s most beautiful spots without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.
What we love about this trip: First, the luxury feel of sailing on the SABRE, a top-of-the-line 78-foot catamaran, makes it a standout. Second, the generous food and drink offerings, including a gourmet buffet and complimentary beverages, really elevate the experience. But, a possible catch? Children under 8 aren’t permitted, so if you’re traveling with smaller kids, this might not be the best fit. This trip suits couples, friends, or families with children aged five and above who are looking for that perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
Key Points
- Luxury sailing experience on a unique and comfortable catamaran
- Snorkeling at untouched reefs and visits to deserted sand cays
- All-inclusive gourmet buffet plus free drinks, including beer, wine, and soft drinks
- Flexible seating options for lounging or active water time
- Pickup and drop-off from various resort areas in Fiji
- Suitable for families with kids aged five and up, but not recommended for under 8s
An Overview of the Full Day Experience
We love the way this tour combines the thrill of sailing with the laid-back charm of Fiji’s islands. You start your day with a pickup from your resort area, making the logistics straightforward. The journey begins at Port Denarau Marina, where you’re greeted by the crew and boarded onto the SABRE, a boat that’s described as the most beautiful and spacious in the southern hemisphere. The boat itself is impressive — large, modern, with shaded canopies and plenty of comfy seats, bean bags, and even day beds for lounging.
The sailing kicks off around 9:45 am, with the crew welcoming you aboard with a drink, often a mimosa. As you glide through the calm, warm waters, you’ll get to enjoy the island views, the breeze, and the sound of relaxing music. The itinerary changes daily based on weather and sea conditions, but every trip promises a taste of paradise with stops at pristine reefs and deserted sand cays.
We’ve seen reviews where guests mention feeling like they’re on a private yacht — quiet, spacious, and beautifully designed. The boat, SABRE, has thoughtful features like steps for easy access into the water, a water slide, and paddle boards, all aimed at making your day as fun as possible. The crew also keeps the atmosphere lively with music, singing, and friendly chatter, which many guests mention as a highlight.
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What Makes the Stops Special
The snorkeling opportunities are high points for many. The reefs are described as untouched, teeming with colorful fish and vibrant coral. Guests often quote how much they appreciated the gear being provided, so there’s no need to worry about bringing your own. Swimming at deserted sand cays is another favorite — a perfect spot for relaxing, sunbathing, or just soaking in the scenery.
One review mentions snorkeling at a reef with “fabulous time,” and another notes the water’s warmth and clarity, making it easy to see underwater life. The sand cay visits are generally short, but enough to give you that “castaway” feeling, with plenty of space to lounge, paddleboard, or simply take photos.
Food and Drinks: A Highlight for Many
The gourmet buffet prepared by an executive chef is often praised as more than adequate — it’s a highlight for guests who love good food. The menu features a variety of fresh, flavorful options including grilled meats, salads, and other local specialties. The food is served during a relaxed lunch, with soft drinks and bottled water available all day, and local beer and house wine flowing from lunchtime for about two hours.
Many reviews highlight the quality and abundance of the food. One guest mentions that they “were never left hungry,” and others appreciate the generous drinks selection, especially the house wine and cocktails. The fully licensed bar offers specialty cocktails at extra cost, but most guests find the included drinks more than enough to enjoy the laid-back vibe.
Seating, Atmosphere, and Crew
The boat’s design focuses on comfort and variety. You’ll find private booths, day beds, and bean bags — perfect for relaxing in the sun or shade. The crew plays a significant role in creating a welcoming, fun environment. Guests frequently mention how friendly, attentive, and lively the staff are, often singing and dancing along with your.
The music, the friendly crew, and the relaxed pace make it clear this is a day designed for enjoyment, not rushing. Some even comment that the crew went “above and beyond” to ensure everyone had an unforgettable experience, including kids and adults alike.
The Itinerary in Detail
The trip’s schedule depends on weather and sea conditions, but here’s a typical outline:
- Start at Port Denarau Marina early morning with pickup from various resort areas like Nadi, Vuda, or Wailoaloa.
- Sail out to the Mamanuca Islands, soaking in the views and enjoying the onboard amenities.
- Stop at reefs for snorkeling, where gear is provided, and the reefs are described as teeming with marine life. Guests say the snorkeling is “top notch,” with many noting the warm, clear waters.
- Visit deserted sand cays for swimming and relaxing, often cited as the highlight by guests. Some reviews mention it’s an ideal place for a quick dip or sunbathing on the soft sand.
- Enjoy paddleboarding and water slides while anchored, adding more fun options to your day.
- Gourmet buffet lunch on board, with plenty of food and drinks, often complimented for their quality and variety.
- Return to port in the late afternoon, with a relaxed sail back as you reflect on the day.
The Value of the Experience
At around $81.74 AUD per person, this trip offers excellent value. It’s a full seven-hour experience that combines sailing, snorkeling, dining, and relaxing — everything you’d want from a day trip in Fiji. When you consider the inclusiveness of the food, drinks, and transfers, it’s a comprehensive package.
Guests frequently mention how they felt the experience was worth the price, especially given the quality of the boat, the food, and the crew’s hospitality. One guest even remarked, “Best money we spent,” doing the trip twice because it was that good.
Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?
This trip is perfect for adventurous couples, groups of friends, or families with kids aged five and above who want a relaxed day on the water. It’s great if you want to see Fiji’s reefs and islands without too much physical activity or hassle. However, children under 8 are not permitted, so small kids may need to look elsewhere.
If you’re someone who appreciates good food, a comfortable boat, and lively crew, this full-day cruise ticks all the boxes. Those who enjoy a mix of activity and downtime will find this offering well-balanced, with enough options for everyone.
Final Thoughts
The South Sea Sailing Full Day Trip on SABRE is a well-rounded, high-quality experience that captures the essence of Fiji’s island life. It’s a smooth blend of luxury sailing, beautiful scenery, and fun water activities, all wrapped up with excellent food and friendly service. It’s clear from reviews that many guests leave with memories of a special, carefree day — whether it’s snorkeling among vibrant reefs, lounging on a sand cay, or singing along with the crew.
For travelers seeking a scenic, comfortable, and fun day on the water — especially those who want good food and drinks included — this trip hits the mark. It’s most suited for those who don’t mind a slightly pricier all-day experience, but who want value for money in a gorgeous setting with attentive hosts. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this cruise offers a genuine taste of Fiji’s magic.
South Sea Sailing Full Day Trip (5 years and above only)
“Our best day in Fiji, hands down. The Sabre is a gorgeous and comfy boat. We were lucky enough to tour on a quiet Sunday, with only about 20 passen…”
FAQs
Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes coach transfers from many popular resort areas in Fiji, such as Nadi, Vuda, Denarau, and Wailoaloa.
What is the maximum group size?
The trip can accommodate up to 70 travelers, but many reviews mention smaller, more intimate groups, especially on quieter days.
Are children under 8 allowed?
No, children under 8 are not permitted on this day trip, making it more suitable for families with kids aged five and above or for adults.
What should I bring with me?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, sun protection (hat and sunblock), a light jacket if necessary, money or credit card for optional purchases, and your camera. A sense of adventure helps too!
How long is the trip?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including transfers, sailing, snorkeling, and lunch.
What is the food like?
Guests rave about the gourmet buffet, which features a variety of fresh, tasty dishes prepared by an executive chef. The food is plentiful and of high quality.
What drinks are included?
Complimentary soft drinks, bottled water, local beer, and house wine are served from lunchtime for about two hours. Additional drinks are available for purchase.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
If you’re after a day of sailing, snorkeling, and good food with a friendly crew in Fiji, this trip could be just what you’re looking for. It’s a well-loved experience with consistently high reviews, making it a safe bet for a memorable island day.