VITAL STATISTICS.
Passengers: 68 in 34 twin cabins on 3 decks (72 maximum)
Built: 2000, in France
Demographic: Typically mature, active couples and groups but
equally suitable for younger couples and even families.
Facilities: Single-sitting dining saloon, sky deck bar and saloon bar,
lounges, boutique, Senikai Spa, pool, excer-cycles, four sun decks,
coffee machine, glass bottom boat, free wi-fi (where reception allows)
and guest laundry.
Itineraries: Blue Lagoon Cruises offers 3, 4 and 7-night cruises from
Port Denarau into the nearby Yasawa Island chain as well as Modriki
and the Sacred Islands. Occasionally, special ‘history and culture’
cruises are offered to the Lau Islands, Ovalau and Taveuni. Sign up to
the mailing list to be advised of these special itineraries.
Cabins: Cabins are small compared to modern, large ships and range
from 11 to 13 sqm. Facilities are straightforward with private facilities
and in-cabin TV playing movies on rotation.
Food: From experience, the dining is hearty and generous with meats,
fish, chicken, local vegetables and fruits. There are speciality nights
too with curry and roasts but nothing is lavish or formal. Breakfasts
are basic buffet with emphasis on fruits and cold items.
Service: Expect a relaxed pace here too. No one is going to come
running if you snap your fingers, but everything is just a polite request
away. The Fijians are a proud people, yet famously relaxed and ready
with a smile, so going with the flow is important. Don’t get agitated if
things don’t go absolutely to plan, it’s part of the Pacific lifestyle.
Tipping: Not required, but there is a box provided for those who wish
to reward extraordinary service.
Entertainment: This is delightfully ad hoc with crew members
producing guitars and traditional instruments to sing local and
popular songs. Audience participation is encouraged and always great
fun.
Excursions: Village visits and island hikes make up the excursion
component, but there is plenty to do that includes kayaking,
snorkeling, swimming, local crafts like basket weaving, coconut
husking (true!) and fishing. Fijians love fishing, so any excuse is always
a good one. Scuba diving is outsourced on the Mamanuca and Yasawa
Islands but well worth the effort. Scuba is easy and comfortable in the
warm waters and reef shark and manta ray encounters are common.
For non-divers, there is a glass bottom boat for reef and fish viewing.
Dress code: Resort casual and very relaxed. A nice shirt for men and
a blouse for ladies is perfect for the most formal event, the Captain’s
Dinner. Hats are important for the strong sun, as are sunglasses.
Ladies should dress modestly for village visits and men should wear
sleeves.
Who would love it: This really is a cruise for anyone, especially those
who like to get away from the crowds. Young and older alike can enjoy
water sports, swimming, hikes, kayaking and cultural encounters.
Progressive families will enjoy the freedom of a true tropical island
experience with educational and experiential components.
Who would hate it: Those who insist on punctual, structured
activities and formality will likely feel awkward in this ultra laid back
setting. Likewise with poseurs and six-star luxury snobs. If you can’t
kick back & relax on a Blue Lagoon Cruise then you are in serious need
of therapy.