Savusavu FIJI  is a Port of Entry on the south-east coast of the large northern island of Vanua Levu. Between 230 and 400 boats clear in here every season.

The town is located on the shore of Nakama Creek, which is considered a cyclone refuge, although a hit by severe cyclone Winston last year put 22 boats on shore. The first few boats on the outer edge broke loose and took out others, and some moorings moved. But a crew of cruisers and locals re-floated all but one vessel and they cut that one up and hauled it away. Some moorings were moved back in position, others inspected and repaired or strengthened.

Nakama Creek is deep water, but the 3 marinas and a representative of several cruising associations rent moorings. There are currently between 50 –  60 moorings for rent.

In March this year the Fiji Govt. Marine division – MSAF – have designated a 40 meter [130 feet] channel into the creek to facilitate the new resort being built on Nawi Island on the opposite shore, for access to their proposed marina which will be dug out of wetland reef and mangroves of the island.

MSAF sent notices to mooring owners to remove almost half of the existing moorings within 30 days or face 3000$ fines. Some of these moorings are rented by overseas owners who have left their cruising boats here for the cyclone season (which doesn’t end officially till May 1st). Some of the vessels are occupied and some stored, so there was a scramble to re-position these boats on other substantial [cyclone] moorings.

Fortunately, the situation has been resolved, and only 6 moorings are to be removed and possibly relocated. Waitui Kelekele Marina has lost none of their moorings and Copra Shed has only had to relocate 6 of theirs to make way for the new channel.

Tips on Checking-in here

So, cruising boats may still check in here.

It is important to contact a marina, or Curly, on arrival. See http://www.noonsite.com/Countries/Fiji/Savusavu

The rules state that you must check in on the day of arrival, so watch weekends and holidays as charges go much higher.

The procedure is different for Health depending on your last port of call.

Do not enter the creek till advised. You can anchor between the commercial wharf and the red markers on the reef off Nakama creek entrance ill-advised.

Marinas

When entering the creek, the first marina on the right is Waitui Marina, which has 24 moorings and a good radio. Call on VHF Ch.16. There is a dinghy dock, hot showers, laundry service, book exchange. Also on the premises is a butcher and local restaurant and bar.

E-mail: waituimarinafiji@gmail.com

The next marina on the right is Copra Shed which has 20 moorings and up to 28 alongside berths with a few for larger boats. I’ve been told they have accommodated up to 80 feet. VHF Ch.16. The Copra Shed complex has a dinghy dock with a fee for non-customers for facility use (laundry, shower block etc.). There is a cafe, restaurant, foreign exchange shop, two marine shops, travel agent, tour guide, arts and crafts and jewellers shop. Also 3 apartments upstairs for rent.

E-mail: coprashed@connect.com.fj

Savusavu yacht club is on the Copra Shed complex and offers cruisers a free 90 day membership. There is a bar and TV and a great youth sailing team.

Next is Curly, see “Curly in Savusavu” blog. He does a cruisers net 6 days a week at 0800hrs. on VHF Ch 68, with weather and posts it on his blog every day. The net can assist you in just about anything. He also hosts seminars about cruising Fiji waters, Fiji traditional customs and protocol etc. Curly has cyclone moorings (yellow) – long term rental only.

E-mail: curlycarswell@gmail.com

http://www.curlycarswell.blogspot.com

Furthest back in the creek is Savusavu Marina which has 20 moorings and about 8 alongside berths. Shower, toilet, small kitchen with freezer, washing machine and a vet on the premises. However, with this marina, you will need to have them guide you through the narrows  the first time. It is a short dinghy ride or inexpensive taxi ride to town, or about a 10 min. walk. Call VHF Ch 16.

E-mail: kilowen@connect.com.fj

All marina hours are from 0800/0830 to 1700. It is recommended that you contact the marinas in advance by e-mail to find out availability prior to arrival.

All the marinas should receive your VHF transmission from at least outside the commercial wharf.

So enjoy Savusavu, Fiji’s Hidden Paradise.

Ed &Fran McLaughlin

s/v AKA

Ed and Fran have been cruising the Pacific on their 11.3m boat AKA since 1992. They have mostly been exploring the South Pacific but spent 2007 to 2012 in the Sea of Cortez. They have spent many seasons in Fiji and Savusau is one of their favourite stops. They are currently in Savusavu for the cyclone season.

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