Destination: Savusavu, Fiji
Introduction
Savusavu on the southern coast of Vanua Levu is widely regarded as one of the finest cruising destinations in the entire South Pacific — a deep, enclosed harbour ringed by jungle-clad hills, a friendly and walkable town, world-class diving in the surrounding Koro Sea, and the legendary Copra Shed Marina that has served cruising sailors for decades. It is a Port of Entry, which combined with its outstanding natural setting makes Savusavu the preferred first landfall in Fiji for many offshore sailors arriving from Tonga, Samoa, or New Zealand.
GPS Coordinates
16° 46' 44.760"S 179° 20' 28.320"E
16 46 44.760S 179 20 28.320E
Protected Anchorages
The main anchorage is in the body of the harbour off the Copra Shed Marina in 8–15 m over soft mud — superb holding that will not drag even in strong winds. Nawi Island anchorage just inside the harbour entrance is equally popular in 6–10 m over mud and well-sheltered. The harbour is almost completely enclosed and provides effective cyclone-hole protection in all but the most extreme conditions. The approach via Nawi Pass requires crossing the barrier reef — enter only in good light with polarised sunglasses and a crew member stationed forward to spot coral heads. The pass is well-marked with leading marks and is straightforward in good visibility.
Customs Protocols for Visiting Yachts
Savusavu is a designated Port of Entry. Fly the Q flag from outside Fijian waters and contact Copra Shed Marina on VHF 16 before entry. Customs, Immigration, and Biosecurity Fiji officials attend the yacht at the dedicated customs berth at Copra Shed Marina — the process is usually efficient and the officials are experienced with visiting yachts. Cruising permits for Fijian outer islands are issued here. Declare all food stores thoroughly — regulations on fresh produce, meat, dairy, and honey are strictly enforced.
Yacht Clubs and Marinas in the Vicinity
- Savusavu Yacht Club
Renowned Attractions
- Copra Shed Marina — legendary Pacific cruising institution with fuel, water, Wi-Fi, laundry, and cold Fiji Bitter
- Savusavu hot springs — geothermal springs bubbling along the town waterfront and in the harbour shallows
- Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort diving — world-class dive operation with outstanding soft coral walls and pelagic encounters
- Natewa Bay exploration — vast, remote bay on the eastern end of Vanua Levu with pristine cruising and traditional villages
- Koro Sea day sails — uninhabited reef islands and isolated sand cays within a short sail of the harbour
- Savusavu market and township — fresh produce, kava, and excellent Indian restaurants in a compact, walkable town
- Rabi Island — settlement of Banaban people relocated from Kiribati, with a poignant and fascinating history
Currency and Exchange Rate
Currency: Fijian Dollar
Exchange Rate to USD
Nearby Yachting Destinations
Summary
Savusavu is the jewel of Fijian cruising — an exceptional natural harbour with near-cyclone-proof shelter, the outstanding Copra Shed Marina, superb Koro Sea diving, and a warm community welcome that brings most sailors back again and again.