It was a cruise without a ship: three days to check out Carnival Cruise
Line’s activities in Fiji, a year before Carnival Spirit arrives in the region.
My mission was to trial some of the shore excursions that will be
available to passengers: outdoor thermal mud springs; zip-lining
through the rainforest; and a day on a deserted island.
In a nutshell, it was the most fun I’ve had on land with any cruise line!
For families planning a holiday to Fiji, cruising is definitely the
easiest option: no airports, no flights, unpack once, and have all food
and entertainment included.
In my opinion, passengers should consider adding at least one of
these top three excursions to their cruise.
1. Mud bath therapy
Villagers welcomed us with traditional songs and a kava ceremony
led by the chief. Then we were taken to the natural pool where we
stripped down to bikinis and rubbed mud over our bodies, drying off
in the sun before rinsing in a hot spring. It’s slimy and slippery, with
giggles guaranteed. Afterwards, our smooth skin was massaged by
the local women and we left in a state of total relaxation. Be aware,
this is not a luxury day spa. The setting is very basic and the springs
are no more than large holes in the ground. Less mobile people may
struggle with the rickety wooden steps to get into the mud bath.
It’s all part of the authentic, rustic experience.
Cost: $89 (adult); $59 (child).
Recommended for: everyone.
2. Forest flying fox
Also known as zip-lining, the flying fox is a cable that connects
treetops up to 30 metres above the tropical forest floor. A guide
takes you safely between the ten observation platforms, providing an
unbeatable view of the lush Suva landscape. But the real attraction is
the adrenaline rush of
gliding from tree to
tree, going faster each
time. By the end, you
will be tempted to try
some mid-air
acrobatics.
Cost: $99 per person.
Recommended for: thrillseekers, from kids to grandparents.
3. Savala Island
If you want to spend the day with some fun Fijians, join the Oolala
crew on a day cruise to a private island. With the whole place to
yourselves for the afternoon, enjoy kayaking, snorkelling, swimming
and a glass-bottomed boat tour. There are no facilities or souvenir
stalls, so this is a chance to really get away from it all. A BBQ lunch is
served on the beach, and morning and afternoon tea are available on
the boat (included in cost). On the way back, the talented crew will
get you singing and laughing with their musical entertainment.
Cost: $129 (adult); $69 (child).
Recommended for: snorkellers and beach bums.
Carnival Spirit will sail roundtrip from Sydney to Fiji, via New
Caledonia and Vanuatu, from December 2012.
For more details on Carnival Cruise Line and bookings, see
www.carnival.com.au.
