Captain Cook Cruises ~ Fiji Luxury Boat Cruise

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Fiji Luxury Boat Cruise

As the ship sailed

our tryst with the waves and

murmurs of the sea

were paradisaical

leaving us transfixed and transformed

with the elusive beauty of

FIJI

 

If you’re a person who appreciates intimate, low-key travel experiences, the Reef Endeavour is just what you’ve been looking for. My husband, Vikram, and I were delighted when we were invited to join the Reef Endeavour Cruise, a Captain Cook Cruises’ flagship, and experience all that the wonderful boutique liner had to offer.

 

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Fiji Luxury Boat Cruise

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Fiji Luxury Boat Cruise

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Fiji Luxury Boat Cruise

 

Our time on board with Captain Cook!

4 Cultures ~ Our Cruise Itinerary

We sailed on a “4 Cultures” itinerary which only departs a few times every year. Our starting point was from the marina in Port Denarau near Nadi, and the next seven nights were poetry in motion as we sailed to the Mamanuca Islands, before heading out further into the Yasawa Islands. ‘Yasawa’ is one of the words for ‘heaven’ in Fijian, so you won’t be disappointed when you see these islands! Everything around provided ignition to savour the splendour of our surroundings, and I for one, was enchanted by the truth and charm of the Fijian landscape.

 

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Fiji Luxury Boat Cruise

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Fiji Luxury Boat Cruise

 

Our Cruise package was an eclectic mix of everything; relaxation, taking in the Fijian culture and tradition, guided tours of the Fijian villages and schools, and of course, water activities like reef snorkelling and glass-bottomed boat tours.

Being a small cruise ship, the Reef Endeavour is built to meet the varied depths of the Fiji waters and can maneuver deftly into spaces where larger cruise ships wouldn’t be able to. We were lucky to discover the essence and beauty of some of the more secluded islands, and diving and snorkelling sites, which we may not have had access to had we sailed on a larger cruise ship.

Cultural highlights were shows of traditional songs and dances by locals in villages we visited, and our cruising brought us in proximity to the aesthetic abilities of the Fijian culture and their creativity and aliveness, thus giving us a full introduction to Fijian life, which was great! We were treated to a Lovo {a traditional feast that is cooked in the earth} at one of the villages, and there was also a traditional drinking ceremony with Kava {the Fijian national drink that is mildly narcotic}. At one of the many Fijian towns thronging with life and energy, we were provided with the opportunity to attend a traditional church service, thus allowing us to experience the diverse cultures of Fiji.

 

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Fiji Luxury Boat Cruise

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Fiji Luxury Boat Cruise

 

Cruising on the Reef Endeavour

Like I’ve mentioned earlier, the Reef Endeavour is a slightly smaller cruise ship that caters to 130 passengers. Being smaller in size, the passengers on board have the advantage of being personally attended to by the staff and crew, making the entire experience an exclusive, relaxing, and comfortable one. But by far what was really heartwarming, was that by the time we disembarked, the staff members were familiar with all our names, our likes and dislikes, our food preferences, and our habits.

The ship though refurbished in 2013 hasn’t lost its appeal and bowled us over with its uniqueness in spirit and grace. The cabins are small but gave a sense of cosiness and belonging. In reality, Vikram and I spent most of our time on the deck watching a new world that enveloped us in its mirth.

The ship itself has lots of facilities to keep you busy. The main pool deck, Deck C, was a great spot to hang out, and the Sun Deck at the very top of the ship was the perfect place to sunbathe. Decks A and B had loungers and chairs to stretch, relax and enjoy the views, and was the place we spent our evenings.

 

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Tivua Island

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Tivua Island

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Tivua Island

 

Dining in Style Onboard ~ The Sinful Pleasures

You can look forward to full-board service aboard the Reef Endeavour, and the comfort of knowing everything is included.

Dining was very relaxing. It had an informal feel and was truly excellent; be it the starters, appetisers, savouries, or the main course. Whenever the ship was docked for sightseeing, the chefs would pick up their stock of fresh vegetables, fish, poultry, and meat at the local markets. This ensured that the food served was fresh and delicious, giving us a taste of Fiji through their creations.

 

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Fiji Luxury Boat Cruise

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Fiji Luxury Boat Cruise

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Monuriki

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Monuriki

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Monuriki

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Monuriki

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Monuriki

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Monuriki

 

The buffet breakfast and lunch had an array of choices, and service was either al fresco by the pool or in the Captain’s Lounge. It was nice conversing with the other passengers on the ship during meal service and hearing about their adventures in Fiji.

Canapés were served in the evening between 6.30 PM to 7.30 PM and dinner was an à la carte affair with the choicest of Fijian cuisine and an inclusion of a few European dishes.

As for the service, I would say that it was the staff and crew that made the cruise memorable for us!

 

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Sacred Island Mamanuca

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Sacred Island Mamanuca

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Sacred Island Mamanuca

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Sacred Island Mamanuca

 

 

Experiencing the Magic of the Sun, Sand, and the Sea

This particular cruise focused on both, the cultural activities and what Fiji is known for, its water activities, and the beach.

A snorkelling excursion was offered each day, which is especially great for people like me who love water adventures and find it electrifying when exploring the colourful life that exists underwater. Those not keen on snorkelling but curious to see the underwater aquatic life could go out on the glass-bottomed boat which made a few trips during the cruise.

 

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Sacred Island Mamanuca

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Sacred Island Mamanuca

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Sacred Island Mamanuca

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Sacred Island Mamanuca

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Sacred Island Mamanuca

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Sacred Island Mamanuca

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Sacred Island Mamanuca

 

Some additional services added up to our appreciation of this cruise.

  • A hospitality manager was always around to answer our queries, get our requests taken care of on priority, and ensure that our cruising experience was pleasant and enjoyable ~ just the way we wanted it to be.
  • There was an on-staff marine biologist who presented talks to familiarise us with the marine life that we were likely to see at each stop. That was quite enthralling ~ listening to the talk about the reefs and sea creatures and finally getting to see them up close.
  • We were provided with a diving instructor for the Discover Scuba Diving Course {DSD}, who also accompanies you on your maiden open-water dives.
  • The diving staff knew exactly where the best spots were to view the colourful aquatic life and the vibrant marine world that exists underwater.

 

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Sawa-I-Lau Caves

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Sawa-I-Lau Caves

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Sawa-I-Lau Caves

 

What is good about smaller cruises such as this one is that you can get really close up, with just a short journey to the shore. We swam, went kayaking and paddleboarding, and it was enchanting to watch the sunlight play on the grains of sand and make them glint in shades of silver and gold.

What’s more, the “bar” was always open. This meant that the staff would constantly pamper our thirst with chilled beer and soda {which were charged to our cabin}.

 

On our first night, Vikram and I had the pleasure of being seated at Captain Ken’s table. The service was extra special and the Captain had some great tales, but also got to know each of his guests. Fine wine was freely poured and the companionship of the other passengers was generally very congenial.

Evenings were lively and entertaining, and there were a lot of interactive activities that helped us in getting to know the crew members and passengers. One such fun activity that left us surprised and quite entertained was the crab-racing night. Each table was given its own sand crab and had to compete with others in a race!

 

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Sawailau Island

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Sawailau Island

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Sawailau Island

 

The rest of the nights we got acquainted with the Fijian way of life. Fijians love singing and dancing, and it was like one big family when the staff also got involved. We were also treated to some folklore which helped us get to know more about their myths and legends, customs and traditions, and culture and people that make Fiji what it is.

The highlight of our cruise was the candlelight dinner that was arranged for Vikram and me on the last day of the cruise. To say it was whimsical sitting on the top deck with just the stars, the sky, and the music of the lull of the waves would be an understatement! We were pampered by a personal chef and server who served us with a delectable menu. The ambience was so romantic and felt almost like a fairy tale!

 

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Fiji Luxury Boat Cruise

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Fiji Luxury Boat Cruise

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Fiji Luxury Boat Cruise

 

What makes cruising in these waters novel and unique?

Vikram and I did not expect the landscape to be constantly changing as the ship deftly manoeuvred its way to take us to hidden diving sites, virgin islands, and unexplored places untouched by the constant presence of travellers. It was indeed a big surprise for the both of us each time we saw varied scenery unfolding in front of our eyes and experienced the cryptic pleasures that lingered in these isolated areas which otherwise would not have been accessible to us. Well, that added up to our element of curiosity and made us eagerly look forward to the next imagery which worked against the predictable dullness that is usually associated with cruises.

If you’re at all skeptical about cruising, this kind of smaller cruise is a great place to find out if you would enjoy it or not. It’s more personalised and intimate, and the camaraderie that exists between the staff, crew, and the passengers makes the cruising informal and relaxing. There is a lot of freedom to do your own thing, like taking a guided tour and immersing in the playfulness of the Fijian villages, their customs and traditions, while on the few nights you are sailing.

 

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Yalobi Village

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Yalobi Village

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Yalobi Village

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Yalobi Village

 

Fun Fact: A few Hollywood films have immortalised the beauty of Fiji in their films. ‘Cast Away’ that starred Tom Hanks had the Monuriki Island as the backdrop, and the 1980s hit Blue Lagoon that conceptualised the passion-filled love story between Christopher Atkins and Brooke Shields was shot at the Yasawas Islands.

 

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Fiji Luxury Boat Cruise

 

The Verdict

I would recommend this cruise to all those travellers wanting a wonderful holiday in Fiji, soaking in the diversity of the archipelago. The sheer beauty, rawness, and hidden vulnerability of the place is beckoning. The sea and its blueness that exists in its depths and on the exterior weaves an ambience that is serene and peaceful yet mysterious. And the cluster of islands clinging together for life strips the land of its barrenness and breathes into it a life that is irresistible to all!

Whether you go there looking for adventure, water sports, or chasing sunrises and sunsets ~ the Captain Cook’s Reef Endeavour Cruise is the manifestation of all your dreamy expectations to reality.

 

The adorable crew 🙂

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Fiji Luxury Boat Cruise

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Fiji Luxury Boat Cruise

Captain Cook Cruises ~ Fiji Luxury Boat Cruise

 

Disclaimer: This review was done on an invitation from Captain Cook Cruises. Due judgment and care have been applied by the author to remain objective and unbiased in the review.

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* I love bringing together a bunch of conflicting items and weaving my own sense of one-ness to them. *

60 Comments

  • All of the idiosyncrasies that make you, you, are the ones that make your blog so wonderful, Tanya! Every other person is the ideal little explorer, but you have realistic experiences that inspire us all!

  • The more I read about Vikram, the more I’m happy he’s in your life! He just seems to balance you out SOOOO well. 🙂

  • Fiji looks like paradise, indeed. You compose great, detailed posts, and I would effectively say you’re my favourite blogger! Now, I wonder if I can persuade my husband to take a trip to Fiji…

  • Like me, there are most likely a large number of people who like you, and follow your blog, Tanya! But presumably don’t disclose to you that they like you. So here it is, a simple comment telling you that I really like you, your blogging, and your helpful insights. xx

  • This 7 nights cruise looks like a fun thing to do in Fiji. I haven’t visited much of that part of the world, but this is really inspiring me!

  • Your posts on Fiji make me want to go there (I have plans to visit in early 2020!), and furthermore, you’re a “genuine” person who has this awesome blog, and above all else, you’re fantastic!!

  • Tanya, you are by far my favourite Travel Blogger. I love your honesty and openness. Looking forward to reading more from you!

    • Thank you, Swathi.

      There have definitely been challenges, however I’d say they were definitely worth it when I see how much I have accomplished and how wonderful my life is today. 🙂

  • Reading all you described above just makes me wish I was crusin’ Fiji right now! Living the life you want definitely implies diligent work; I hope you will continue for many more years to come.

  • I delighted in reading this insightful and beautifully written post, Tanya. I’m planning to head to Fiji next year ~ seems like it could be the trip of a lifetime! 🙂

  • Hello Tanya, this article makes me want to explore more of Fiji! And, there are simply so many islands to choose from! I adore your blog ~ just keep going!

  • Even though I’m not looking at visiting Fiji anytime soon, I’m glad you wrote about your amazing cruise experience. It’s something I possibly would have searched for, and certainly enjoyed reading!

  • I love how honest your writing is, Tanya. There are such a large number of blogs out there, however I’m working on finding my own writers voice… slowly! So thank you for continually inspiring me to do so!

    • Thank you, Savitha.
      It certainly requires an investment of both time and energy to find your voice and make sense of what you’re comfortable sharing, but you’ll get there. 🙂

  • I would love to try out Captain Cook Cruises! Just to discover how deprived my taste buds are and what other flavours there are out there in the world! Thank you for the recommendation, Tanya. This was a wonderful read. xx

  • Thanks for such a detailed post, and so happy you shared these lovely photos. Reading your blog entries makes me feel like you are my best friend. We are so similar in some ways, Tanya! 🙂

  • True believer in leaving the world a better place after I have been in it… Seeing you on the other side very soon! xx

  • There are many “hidden figures” behind the scenes that keep the wheels turning on this grand vessel… Your post is wonderful and very much appreciated!

  • It seems like being at sea is the most beautiful place to be. At the bow of this gorgeous ship enjoying all that’s visible with nothing but ocean in sight ~ must be something!!

  • You’ve certainly seen some amazing sights and had a wonderful time! As a way of exploring Fiji, I had never considered small ship cruising… thank you for sharing.

    • … it’s the perfect contrast of seaside relaxation with just the right amount of sight-seeing adventures, Manisha. 🙂

  • How cool that they provide snorkelling trips at different locations (morning and afternoon) with optional beach hang-out. 🙂 Gorgeous photos btw!

    • Enjoy the view with an icy cold beverage and let the gentle rocking of the waves revive you for the next x days of adventure!

  • Beautiful work. Hiking up a mini mountain with views to die for… !! Top that with a visit to the famous “Blue Lagoon” Beach! Wow!!

    • The fantasy of trading in your hectic job and chaotic schedule turns to serious consideration as that view makes you yearn for the island life!

  • Wow, this is so beautiful! Experiencing nature, history and culture in relaxed comfort… Booking my tickets, now!!

    • Do! You’ll get to discover Fiji’s spectacular islands, pristine beaches, amazing marine life and beautiful coral reefs!

  • So envious! You got to truly relax & explore what Fiji truly has to offer! I wonder when I’ll get to transverse the pristine waters of Fiji…

  • A 7-night cruise for those who just can’t get enough of Fiji’s beautiful beaches, coral reefs, islands, and rich customs and culture! Sounds amazing!

  • I’m definitely interested in the fully catered buffet, massage services, jacuzzi and cocktail bar!! 😀 I would, of course, equally look forward to the scenic beauty of Fiji’s Islands! Thank you for sharing.

  • There are more things in Heaven and on Earth than are dreamed of in thy philosophy Horatio! Lets look after our fragile world and allow beautiful corals to thrive!

  • Blissful memories of gorgeous locations… Paddle, dive, snorkel, hike, lie on a beach, meet a local, help a village, eat, drink – it is all fabulous!!

    • …it was amazing meeting the villagers who’s only contact with the outside world otherwise is a supply ship once a month.

  • Beautiful looking water… and you got to explore some of the most beautiful and remote areas of Fiji. One day…

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