Denarau Island is a prime spot for boat tours and cruises thanks to its proximity to the stunning Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands, as well as its convenient location near Nadi’s international airport. Whether you want a relaxing day on a traditional schooner, a cultural evening with fire dancers, or a multi-day voyage exploring remote islands, Denarau offers options for every type of traveler. We particularly like the South Sea Sailing Experience for its laid-back vibe and tasty buffet lunch, and the Robinson Crusoe Sunset Cruise for its immersive cultural show and peaceful sunset views. These tours give you a taste of Fiji’s waters and traditions without leaving the main island.
If you’re planning a trip, consider the style of experience you’re after—whether that’s a family-friendly snorkel day, a romantic sunset cruise, or a multi-day island-hopping adventure. Each option offers something unique, making Denarau a true hub for water-based exploration.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we cover full-day sailing tours, cultural dinner cruises, multi-night island cruises, and short island day trips. No matter your schedule or interests, you’ll find options that fit. Check out the Fiji: South Sea Sailing Experience for a relaxing day on the water, or the Blue Lagoon Cruises – Wanderer Cruise if you’re after an immersive multi-day adventure. For culture, the Robinson Crusoe Sunset Cruise stands out, while families might prefer the Fiji: Beachcomber Island Day Cruise with Snorkelling. The options are diverse, so read on for details to find your perfect match.
1. Fiji: South Sea Sailing Experience with Lunch & Drinks
At number 1 on our list, the Fiji: South Sea Sailing Experience with Lunch & Drinks offers a full-day escape to the Mamanuca Islands with a relaxed sailing vibe. For around $116, you get 7 hours of sailing, including a gourmet buffet lunch served onboard, with soft drinks, bottled water, and beer & wine during lunch. The tour features an open-air experience with large shaded canopies, perfect for lounging as you glide through calm, tropical waters.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of comfort and activity. You’ll enjoy swimming and snorkeling in pristine waters, exploring the peaceful surroundings, and relaxing with drinks and snacks. It’s ideal for travelers who want a leisurely day without feeling rushed, and the positive reviews — a 4.8/5 from 128 travelers — reflect its popularity. Many highlight the friendly crew and delicious food.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for those wanting a balanced mix of relaxing sailing, swimming, and excellent food in a small-group setting.
2. Robinson Crusoe Sunset Cruise Including Dinner, Cultural Show & Transfers
Number 2 on our list is the Robinson Crusoe Sunset Cruise, offering a magical evening experience. This tour lasts about 7 to 8 hours and includes round-trip jungle cruise transfers, making it a hassle-free option. The cruise itself features a traditional earth-oven Fijian dinner, a bonfire with live music, and an engaging cultural show with fire dancers.
The highlight is the setting — as the sun dips behind the islands, you’ll enjoy panoramic views while savoring authentic Fijian cuisine. The tour’s 4.5/5 reviews from 171 travelers show that people love the seamless organization and lively performances. Some mention the long transfer times, but most feel it’s a small price for such an immersive experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for romantics and culture lovers wanting a lively, authentic night out with spectacular sunset views and lively entertainment.
3. Blue Lagoon Cruises – Wanderer Cruise – 4 Night
For those wanting more than a day trip, the Blue Lagoon Cruises – Wanderer Cruise delivers a 4-night adventure exploring the Yasawa Islands. Priced at about $2,195 per person, this cruise offers a comprehensive look at Fiji’s remote islands, including visits to Drawaqa Island, the Sawa-i-Lau caves, and traditional villages. You’ll enjoy daily meals — breakfast, lunch, and dinner — all included, along with guided excursions, snorkeling gear, and lively entertainment.
What makes this trip special is the chance to see the remote side of Fiji. The boat is well-equipped for comfort, and the itinerary balances adventure with relaxation. Many reviews give it a perfect 5-star rating, praising the knowledgeable crew and the variety of activities, from basket weaving to swimming with reef sharks.
Bottom line: Ideal for seasoned travelers or families looking for an immersive, multi-day Fiji adventure with all the comforts included.
4. Jewel Of Fiji: Boat, Raft & Waterfall Culture Tour w/Lunch
Number 4 is the Jewel of Fiji: Boat, Raft & Waterfall Culture Tour, a 5.5-hour adventure packed with active experiences. It starts with a long boat ride up the Navua River, followed by bamboo rafting, swimming at a scenic waterfall, and a visit to a traditional Fijian village. The tour is fully inclusive, with hotel transfers and a buffet lunch, and it’s operated by a locally owned eco-venture that’s won multiple awards.
What makes this tour stand out is its mix of adventure and culture. You’ll experience Fiji’s natural beauty through water activities and learn about local traditions from the villagers. Reviews praise the friendly staff and the authenticity of the experience. The tour is suitable for active travelers and families who enjoy engaging with nature and culture.
Bottom line: A great choice if you want a lively, hands-on day with water adventures and cultural insights, all in one.
5. Capt Cook Cruises Super Saver Combo: Day Sail + Dinner Cruise
Number 5 combines two popular cruises into what we call the Super Saver Combo. For about $199, you get a day sail to Tivua Island with barbecue lunch, water activities, and an open bar, plus a sunset dinner cruise with entertainment. The tour can be split into separate days or done consecutively, giving flexibility.
On the day trip, expect a 1.25-hour tall ship sail, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and lively crew entertainment. The evening cruise offers a relaxing sunset with dinner and cultural performances. The reviews, averaging 4.5/5 from 22 travelers, note the quality of food and the excellent staff. Some mention the long transfer times, but overall, it’s a great value for those wanting both daytime and evening experiences.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a complete package — combining daytime fun with a relaxing evening cruise.
6. Blue Lagoon Cruises – Explorer Cruise – 3 Nights
Number 6 is the Blue Lagoon Cruises – Explorer Cruise, a 3-night journey geared toward those with limited time but a desire to see Fiji’s remote beauty. For about $1,543, you’ll explore Modriki Island, swim with reef sharks, learn Fijian cooking, and visit villages. The cruise includes all meals, guided excursions, and activities such as water sports gear.
What makes this cruise appealing is its balance of adventure and culture without the commitment of a week-long voyage. It’s popular among travelers wanting to experience the Yasawa Islands with ease. The 4.5/5 reviews highlight the quality of the guides and the variety of included activities.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers who want a taste of Fiji’s islands with guided excursions and cozy accommodations.
7. Fiji: Beachcomber Island Day Cruise with Snorkelling
Number 7 is the Beachcomber Island Day Cruise, ideal for a short island escape. For $133, you’ll spend 8 hours exploring, swimming, and snorkeling at Beachcomber Island. The tour includes a buffet BBQ lunch, tropical drinks, and traditional Fijian performances, plus a special turtle pond adventure.
It’s perfect for travelers wanting a full day of fun without overnight stays. The reviews praise the lively atmosphere and the diverse activities, including the chance to make traditional Kokoda and relax on sandy beaches. The island’s lively vibe makes it a great choice for families and couples alike.
Bottom line: A fun, all-in-one day trip for anyone who wants to experience Fiji’s beaches, culture, and snorkeling in one go.
8. Fiji: Half-Day Island Activities Tour with Jungle Cruise
Number 8 offers a quick but packed Half-Day Island Activities Tour. Lasting about 4 hours for around $97, it covers reef snorkeling, kayaking, a serene jungle cruise, and cultural demonstrations. If you’re short on time but want a taste of Fiji’s waters and traditions, this is your tour.
What makes this tour special is its variety of activities in a short window. It’s suitable for active travelers who want to try different water sports and culture demos. Some reviews note the busy schedule but appreciate the chance to see multiple aspects of island life in a few hours.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a quick, fun-filled experience with a mix of adventure and cultural insight.
9. Finding Nemo – Half Day Cruise to South Sea Island
Our final pick, Finding Nemo, is a 3-hour 15-minute trip ideal for families or first-time visitors. From Port Denarau, you’ll visit South Sea Island, where you can snorkel in the marine sanctuary, ride the semi-submersible, and relax in the island’s pools. Drinks are included, and hotel pickups simplify planning.
With reviews averaging 3.5/5 from 83 travelers, it’s a popular short escape for those wanting to experience Fiji’s underwater world without a big time commitment. The semi-submersible ride especially appeals to families with kids or anyone wanting to see marine life without getting wet.
Bottom line: A quick, fun introduction to Fiji’s marine life, suitable for families and travelers with limited time.
$64.85 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Boat Tour or Cruise
When picking the best tour, consider your budget, time, and interests. For a relaxing day with excellent food, the South Sea Sailing Experience is hard to beat. If you want a multi-day adventure, the Blue Lagoon Cruises or Yasawa Island trips offer immersive experiences. For cultural evenings, the Robinson Crusoe Sunset Cruise provides authentic performances and sunset views. Families or those with limited time might prefer the half-day snorkeling trips or the South Sea Island cruise.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular multi-night cruises or sunset dinners. Think about whether you prefer active water sports, cultural experiences, or simply lounging on a boat—each tour has its own unique flavor.
Final Thoughts
Denarau Island’s boat tours cover a range of interests and schedules. For a laid-back day, try the South Sea Sailing Experience or the Beachcomber Island Day Cruise. For a deeper dive into Fiji’s culture and natural beauty, the Yasawa Island cruises or Jewel of Fiji tour are excellent options. And if you’re planning a romantic evening or multi-day escape, the Robinson Crusoe Sunset Cruise or Blue Lagoon Cruises won’t disappoint.
No matter what you choose, booking early will ensure you get your preferred date and avoid missing out on these fantastic adventures. Happy sailing!