Embark on a breathtaking 12 night sailing adventure through the remote Yasawa Islands, a chain of 20 volcanic islands stretching 62nm into the South Pacific. Known for their pristine white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, and rugged peaks, the Yasawas offer a true escape into untouched paradise.
Sailing aboard a well-equipped yacht, you’ll experience day hops and peaceful overnight anchorages, allowing you to explore hidden coves, snorkel vibrant coral reefs, and swim with majestic manta rays. Visit the legendary Sawa-i-Lau caves, where ancient limestone formations hold deep cultural significance, and bask in the famed Blue Lagoon, with crystal-clear waters and swaying coconut palms.
At the heart of the lagoon, Nanuya Lailai offers thriving marine life and lush palm groves, while the southern islands of Kuata and Waya Lailai boast towering volcanic peaks and breathtaking hiking trails. With unspoiled landscapes, rich Fijian culture, and warm island hospitality, this 12-day sailing expedition blends adventure, relaxation, and exploration, making it the ultimate South Pacific getaway.
Swim with manta rays in seasonal feeding grounds
Snorkel alongside these graceful giants near Drawaqa Island, where nutrient-rich currents attract them between May and October.
Discover the legendary Sawa-i-Lau caves
Swim through ancient limestone chambers surrounded by myth and natural beauty, with light shafts filtering through the cave ceiling into clear blue water.
Anchor in the serene Blue Lagoon
Enjoy one of Fiji’s most iconic settings, where calm, crystal-clear waters meet soft white sand—perfect for paddleboarding, swimming, and relaxing in the sun.
Visit traditional Fijian villages
Experience the warmth of Yasawan hospitality during village visits, where you may be welcomed with a kava ceremony, traditional music, and insight into island life.
Hike to panoramic viewpoints on Kuata and Waya Lailai
Trek along volcanic ridgelines and forested trails to reach stunning lookouts, with sweeping views over coral reefs, neighbouring islands, and the open Pacific.
Snorkel vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life
Discover underwater gardens alive with tropical fish, soft corals, and occasional sea turtles—easily accessible straight from the yacht.
Enjoy remote anchorages and barefoot beach landings
Drop anchor in calm bays with no one else around, step ashore on deserted beaches, and soak in the peaceful rhythm of the islands.
Vuda Marina
Welcoming arrival and departure point with traditional Fijian greetings, provisioning, and full marina services.
Close to historic Viseisei Village—believed to be Fiji’s first settlement.
Kuata
Dramatic volcanic cliffs and summit hikes with sweeping views over the Yasawa Islands.
Known for shark snorkelling experiences in nearby reefs with local guides.
Wayasewa Island
Small, culturally rich island with traditional villages and friendly locals.
Great snorkelling and relaxed beach walks along golden shores.
Naukacuvu Island
Serene anchorages with powdery beaches and nearby coral reefs perfect for snorkelling.
Home to a boutique resort offering cultural nights and fresh island cuisine.
Nanuya Balavu Island
Calm bays ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking in protected waters.
Surrounded by reef systems teeming with tropical fish and coral gardens.
Drawaqa Island
Seasonal manta ray hotspot—snorkel with these gentle giants from May to October.
Excellent reef snorkelling just off the beach, with vibrant marine life and clear water.
Nanuya Lailai Island
Popular anchorage with walking trails, local village visits, and beachside cafés.
Connected by a short path to the famous Blue Lagoon, ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
Tavewa Island
Low-key, off-grid island with small locally run resorts and a laid-back vibe.
Great reef snorkelling and proximity to nearby Blue Lagoon dive sites.
Nacula Island
Known for its mountainous terrain and some of the best hiking views in the Yasawas.
Home to traditional villages and remote white-sand beaches perfect for anchoring offshore.
Naviti Island
One of the largest Yasawa Islands, with rugged interior hikes and multiple villages to visit.
Great for cultural experiences, school visits, and authentic Fijian welcome ceremonies.
Yanggeta Island
Quiet, lesser-visited island with peaceful beaches and coral patches.
Ideal for a private anchorage and relaxed day in the water or onshore.
Matacawalevu
Long white-sand beaches and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for beachcombing and quiet swims.
Sheltered anchorage and good access to surrounding islands by tender.
Sawa-i-Lau Caves
Iconic limestone cave system with crystal-clear pools—swim into inner chambers through a submerged passage.
Steeped in legend and sacred to locals, often included in village-guided tours.
Acting as watch captain (day and night), helming, navigating, checking weather and monitoring AIS and radar and for both traffic and rain squalls. View gallery
Downloading and analysing the latest weather forecasts and calculating best route to destination. View gallery
Navigating, hazard identification, entering waypoints and calculating updated ETA’s. View gallery
Watch roster planning, matching responsibility to experience, crew management and communication. View gallery
Familiarisation of all safety procedures, sail planning, storm preparation planning and abandon ship procedures. View gallery
Advice on how to take responsibility for managing clothing, hydration, sleep and nutrition to maintain your health and well being aboard. View gallery
Planning our arrival and route to safe harbour including timing with daylight (if required), weather factors, navigational hazards, communications / customs and sail/motor arrival plan. View gallery
Hoisting, trimming and reefing both upwind (main, genoas, and jibs) and downwind sails (poled out headsails, spinnakers, gennakers and code 0’s (subject to weather). View gallery
Use of PDF’s (Personal Flotation Devices), PLB’s (Personal Locator Beacons), safety tethers, dan buoy’s, storm drogue, liferaft and any other equipment required to ensure you remain safe in all conditions. View gallery
Onshore activities include hiking and bushwalking to scenic lookouts, exploring local towns, and discovering the unique charm of each destination. Enjoy cultural immersion through local traditions, relax with games, or uncover hidden gems as you explore islands. View gallery
Coastal exploring offers the thrill of venturing to remote places using a RIB, uncovering hidden gems like pristine reefs, secluded beaches, and winding rivers. Discover shipwrecks teeming with history, indulge in beach combing for unique treasures, and experience the untouched beauty of coastal landscapes. View gallery
Dining out offers the chance to enjoy local flavours, explore regional specialties, and experience unique culinary traditions. From seaside cafes to hidden gems, each meal is an opportunity to savour the culture and cuisine of the destination. View gallery
Fishing provides an opportunity to connect with nature, whether casting a line from the shore or exploring deeper waters. Enjoy the thrill of the catch, the serenity of the surroundings, and the chance to bring home a fresh, rewarding meal. View gallery
Exploring historic places offers a glimpse into the past through ancient sites, architectural landmarks, and local stories. These visits bring history to life, connecting you with the culture, traditions, and events that shaped each destination. View gallery
Kayaking
Kayaking allows you to glide through serene waterways, explore hidden coves, and get up close to nature. It’s a peaceful yet adventurous way to discover rivers, coastlines, and marine life from a unique perspective. View gallery
Snorkelling offers an up-close view of vibrant underwater ecosystems, from colourful coral reefs to fascinating marine life. It's a relaxing and immersive way to explore the wonders beneath the surface of the water. View gallery
Wildlife watching offers unforgettable encounters with nature, from observing birds and dolphins to spotting whales, turtles, and sharks. Discover diverse marine life, from playful fish to delicate starfish, in their natural habitats. View gallery
Swimming
Swimming offers refreshing escapes in stunning settings, from crystal-clear bays and tranquil rivers to diving off the back of the boat into azure waters. It's a perfect way to relax and be rejuvenated by nature. View gallery
Step aboard Te Kaihopara, a purpose-built South Pacific cruising ketch designed for modern explorers seeking connection, challenge, and discovery at sea. From remote coastlines to open ocean passages, Te Kaihopara delivers comfort, capability, and adventure in equal measure. With a strong, ocean-tested build, hands-on sailing opportunities, and space to relax and reflect, every voyage is a chance to immerse yourself in the rhythm of the ocean and the raw beauty of the natural world.
With $1m spent on a refit, new electronics, a full rewire and the latest safety equipment in 2023, the yacht meets the highest safety standards.
With a generous galley, 4 fridges and a freezer, the yacht is able to be well provisioned for long distance cruising.
With a saloon and wheelhouse that seat up to 16 people, there are ample indoor and outdoor seating choices.
Berth and Cabin and options available
Moana: Aft Stateroom - includes 3 berths (2 + 1) and private ensuite. Available as private or shared cabin. USB 12v / 240v power outlets.
Tiritiri: mid cabin - includes 3 berths (2 + 1) and private ensuite. Available as private or shared cabin. USB 12v / 240v power outlets.
Mokohinau: Forward cabin - includes 4 berths (4 x 1 ) and private ensuite. Available shared cabin. USB 12v / 240v power outlets.
You can fly directly into Nadi Airport on day 1 to arrive at the vessel by 5pm. When you arrive at Vuda Marina, we'll familiarise you with the yacht, systems and safety equipment and you will join us for a crew welcome dinner.
We will aim to depart (subject to weather) around 11am on day 2 and leave the Vuda Point Marina, heading NW for the first of our Yasawa Island anchorages.
The goal is to explore the Yasawa Island group over the following 11 days, stopping daily at selected bays, attractions and islands en-route. We will aim to sail back into Vuda Point Marina on day 11 and you can stay onboard on return before departing out of Nadi Airport on day 12.
Day 1:
Arrive at the vessel in Fiji by 5pm
Crew welcome dinner
Day 2:
Crew training and safety familiarisation
Depart Vuda Marina around 11am
Day 2-11:
Explore a select number of Yasawa Islands
Day 12:
Sail back in Vuda Marina by 3pm
Crew farewell dinner
Day 13:
Depart Fiji via Nadi International Airport
Inclusions
Your crew package includes; all meals onboard, and any designated crew meals ashore, accommodation onboard, Fiji Cruising Permits, your Ocean Sailing Expeditions crew shirt, marina fees, the use of a PFD (personal flotation device), PLB (personal locator beacon), and a safety tether. Your bedding, a pillow and towel are also included along with suncream.
Wholesale Accomodation Rates
Your crew package includes access to accommodation ashore, at the First Landing Resort at exclusive Ocean Sailing Expeditions, discounted wholesale rates, before departure and after arrival. Add extra days to your Fiji experience and extend your break or book your family in while your on the ocean.
Exclusions
Your crew package excludes; accommodation ashore, flights and transport to and from departure and arrival ports, alcohol, toiletries, clothing and wet weather gear. Its always recommended that you book flights with date flexibility incase of unforeseen changes due to weather or schedules. Accommodation options if you want to stay ashore either side of trip: AirBNB, Booking.com, Wotif & HomeAway.
Book and pay
Click Book Now button above to secure your place. Choose from Pay in Full or deposit options. Direct debit from bank account, debit card or credit card options available. Pay in the currency of your choice.
Personalise your payment plan
If you want to set up a payment plan, contact us here and let us know your desired deposit (minimum 10% required) and your preferred payment. You can make up to 18 payments, for the balance. You can choose the frequency and customise each payment amount.
Not ready to pay, but want to secure your place?
Reserve your place onboard today, with no obligation. We’ll send the confirmation details, itinerary, deposit invoice and be sure to answer all your questions, while you finalise your plans before confirming. Reserve here.
100% cancellation guarantee
If you book and then cancel prior to an event, for any reason, 100% of your payment will be issued as a credit, that you can apply to any future event/s. For a full refund of sailing trip, flights and hotel costs, we recommend travel insurance. View Terms & Conditions.
Members
Check for Member's availability here before booking this event, using Members Benefits. When you book Reserve your place here.