Embark on a spectacular sailing expedition through Fiji’s remote northern cruising grounds, exploring the wild western shores of Taveuni and the culturally rich waters of Lomaloma and Vanua Balavu in the Northern Lau Group. This journey offers the perfect blend of vibrant reef life, pristine nature, cultural connection, and tranquil solitude—far from the typical tourist path.
Begin near the Somosomo Strait, home to the world-renowned Rainbow Reef, alive with colourful soft corals and diverse marine life. Drop anchor at Viani Bay for a warm local welcome and guided reef adventures, or sail north to Matei, gateway to Taveuni’s waterfalls, rainforest trails, and black-sand beaches.
Sailing southeast into the Lau Group, you’ll arrive at Vanua Balavu’s Lomaloma anchorage, where calm waters and village hospitality set the tone for days of discovery. Explore the stunning Bay of Islands, a maze of limestone islets and jade-green lagoons—ideal for kayaking, snorkelling, and scenic tender rides.
With time for freshwater swims, traditional sevusevu ceremonies, and starlit evenings at anchor, this expedition is perfect for those seeking a deeper connection to nature, culture, and the timeless rhythm of the South Pacific.
Explore the world-famous Rainbow Reef in the Somosomo Strait
Dive or snorkel one of the planet’s most vibrant soft coral reefs, teeming with marine life in clear, current-swept waters.
Visit Viani Bay for reef adventures and local hospitality
Enjoy guided snorkelling or diving excursions led by local villagers and experience a warm Fijian welcome in this protected bay.
Discover Taveuni Island’s lush rainforest and waterfalls
Anchor off Matei and venture ashore to explore Bouma Falls, coastal hikes, and natural freshwater swimming holes on Fiji’s “Garden Island.”
Experience cultural connection at Lomaloma on Vanua Balavu
Participate in traditional sevusevu ceremonies, meet local families, and enjoy the calm anchorage of this historic and hospitable village.
Cruise through the majestic Bay of Islands
Navigate a dramatic network of limestone islets and jade-green waters—ideal for kayaking, tender excursions, and peaceful snorkelling.
Unplug in remote anchorages and under starlit skies
Spend evenings in serene isolation, enjoying sunset drinks, shared meals, and the simple rhythm of life aboard in Fiji’s most untouched cruising grounds.
Savusavu
Stroll the lively waterfront and hot springs of Fiji’s “Hidden Paradise,” a charming town with artisan markets and marina life.
Visit the nearby Waisali Rainforest Reserve for a short hike through lush jungle alive with birdlife and waterfalls.
Rainbow Reef
Dive or snorkel the iconic reef, home to the famous Great White Wall and brilliant soft coral gardens.
Experience rich marine biodiversity, with reef sharks, turtles, and clouds of tropical fish in current-fed waters.
Somosomo Strait
Sail through this vibrant marine corridor separating Taveuni and Vanua Levu, famed for world-class diving.
Spot dolphins and seabirds as you cruise past reef systems that pulse with colour and movement.
Vuna Reef
Explore a lesser-known dive and snorkel site with deep walls, caves, and healthy hard coral formations.
Chance to encounter manta rays and larger pelagics cruising along the reef edge.
Taveuni Island
Visit Bouma Falls and natural swimming holes tucked within the rainforest of the “Garden Island.”
Cross the International Dateline at Waiyevo and stand in both today and yesterday at once.
Korolevu Island
Snorkel around fringing reefs with abundant coral and fish life in this quiet and scenic anchorage.
Enjoy peaceful walks or paddleboard sessions along the calm, reef-protected coastline.
Bouma National Heritage Park
Hike to a series of waterfalls along well-maintained tracks surrounded by dense rainforest and birdlife.
Swim beneath cascading falls and picnic in tranquil, shaded forest settings.
Lavena Coastal Walk
Follow a coastal trail through villages, forest, and black-sand beaches to reach dramatic waterfalls.
Take a dip where freshwater meets ocean, surrounded by jungle and volcanic cliffs.
Waitabu Marine Park
Snorkel a vibrant no-take reef sanctuary managed by the local community with rich biodiversity.
Learn about traditional reef management and Fijian conservation efforts through village guides.
Qamea
Discover quiet bays and reef passes ideal for kayaking, snorkelling, and paddleboarding.
Visit local villages to experience traditional Fijian life and warm hospitality off the tourist path.
Rabi Island
Connect with the Banaban people, originally from Ocean Island, and learn about their unique cultural heritage.
Enjoy uncrowded anchorages with dramatic terrain and great opportunities for coastal walks and reef exploration.
Matei
Anchor off this relaxed northern hub of Taveuni, with easy access to shops, resorts, and inland adventures.
Launch point for visiting nearby waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic drives along the coast.
Lomaloma
Historic village anchorage framed by forested hills and gentle reefs, offering a calm and cultural stopover.
Walk to the local church or meet villagers for an authentic glimpse into Lau Island life.
Vanua Balavu Island
Sail among the dramatic limestone islets of the Bay of Islands, a secluded cruising paradise with towering cliffs and hidden lagoons.
Snorkel, kayak, or explore ashore where traditional villages meet natural beauty.
Savusavu
Sheltered harbour town known for its hot springs, vibrant markets, and friendly cruising community.
Soak in geothermal pools or stock up at local shops before heading deeper into the islands.
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 Savusavu Airport or arrive via ferry from Suva by 5pm on day 1. Once you arrive at the yacht, we’ll familiarise you with the yacht, its systems, and safety gear, followed by a crew welcome dinner ashore.
Our goal is to explore the western coast of Taveuni Island, and the nearby islands and bays around Lomaloma and Vanua Balavu, with the route adapted to suit weather conditions and local opportunities for adventure.
Day 1:
Arrive in Savusavu by 5:00pm
Welcome aboard the yacht
Crew welcome dinner
Day 2:
Crew training and safety familiarisation
Yacht systems orientation and route planning
Depart Savusavu by 11:00am
Days 2 – 13:
Cruise to multiple anchorages in the Taveuni & Lomaloma region
Day 14:
Sail back to Savusavu, arriving by mid-afternoon
Farewell crew dinner and final night onboard
Day 15:
Depart via Savusavu Airport or ferry
Inclusions
Your crew package includes; all meals onboard, crew meals ashore and at various stopover islands and ports, accommodation onboard, your Ocean Sailing Expeditions crew shirt, marina fees, the use of a PFD (personal floatation device), PLB (personal locator beacon), and a safety tether. Your bedding, a pillow and towel are also included along with suncream.
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.