South Sea Island Combo Trip with Lunch & Drinks

Planning a day trip in Fiji? The South Sea Island Combo Trip offers a snapshot of island paradise, combining a quick cruise, plenty of activities, and a tasty meal. While it’s a popular choice—recommended by 94% of travelers—it’s worth digging into the details to see if it fits your style.

What we love about this tour? First, the short, scenic ferry ride delivers stunning views of the Mamanuca Islands, making the journey itself a highlight. Second, the variety of included activities—snorkeling, kayaking, a semi-submersible coral view, and cultural performances—means there’s something for all.

A potential consideration? The return cruise can be a bit rough and lengthy, especially if you’re sensitive to sea conditions or prefer a quicker return.

This trip is ideally suited for those who want a value-packed, relaxed day in Fiji with plenty of options to explore and enjoy, especially families and first-time visitors looking for authentic, fun-filled experiences.

Key Points

• Accessible and Convenient: Pickup from most Nadi hotels and a quick 30-minute boat ride make this trip easy to fit into your Fiji itinerary.
• All-Inclusive Value: Lunch, unlimited drinks, watersports gear, and a semi-submersible adventure are included, offering great value.
• Variety of Activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, saltwater pool, local performances, and craft market provide diverse entertainment.
• Relaxed Pace: With around 3 hours ashore, you have enough time to unwind or engage in active pursuits without feeling rushed.
• Authentic Cultural Touches: Fijian dance performances and craft stalls add a flavorful cultural dimension.
• Potential Drawback: The return trip can be bumpy and longer than some travelers might prefer.

Starting at Port Denarau Marina, the trip begins with a high-speed, air-conditioned catamaran. The vessel’s smooth ride and onboard WiFi set a comfortable tone for the day. Departing around 8:45 am, the ride to South Sea Island takes approximately 30 minutes—short enough to keep the excitement high but long enough to enjoy the sea breeze and views of the Mamanuca cluster.

The boat is designed for comfort with ample space and a lively atmosphere. As you motor across the water, expectations rise for what’s to come—crystal-clear waters, tropical islands, and plenty of fun.

Once ashore, the true allure of this tour unfolds. The island itself is tiny but packed with activities, making it a perfect microcosm of Fiji’s laid-back charm. You’ll have about 3.5 hours to enjoy at your own pace, which is enough time for a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Beach and Pool: The saltwater pool provides a refreshing escape from the sun, while loungers on the beach invite you to unwind. As one reviewer put it, “My 9-year-old loved the pool,” making it clear that the island caters well to families.

Snorkeling and Watersports: With complimentary gear, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards, you can explore the vibrant marine life and the calm waters at your leisure. For a standout experience, try the semi-submersible coral viewer, a highlight for many. It offers a surprisingly vivid glimpse beneath the waves without getting wet, as one visitor noted, “The subsea adventure was incredible.”

Cultural Entertainment and Market: During lunch, traditional Fijian performances add a lively cultural touch to the day. The open-air restaurant features a BBQ buffet with salads, and unlimited drinks—local beer, house wine, and soft drinks—are included, keeping everyone well-hydrated.

Local Craft Market: Available daily except Sundays, this is a chance to browse handmade souvenirs, a lovely way to connect with Fijian artisans and pick up unique mementos.

The BBQ lunch is often praised as delicious and plentiful, satisfying hungry travelers after morning activities. With salads and a range of grilled options, the meal feels like a true treat. The drinks, especially the unlimited beer and wine, elevate the experience—perfect for relaxing and socializing.

One reviewer mentioned, “Lunch was lovely and plentiful,” emphasizing the value of the meal. The entertainment during lunch, primarily the Fijian dance performances, adds a vibrant, authentic touch that helps you feel immersed in the local culture.

After lunch, it’s time for a scenic cruise back through the islands, often with stops to pick up or drop off other guests. The return ride can last around two hours, and some travelers, like Helen, found it a bit long and bumpy. She noted, “The cruise back was a bit rough and long,” which is worth considering if sea sickness is a concern or if you prefer a quicker return.

The cruise offers another chance to enjoy Fiji’s stunning landscapes, with views of uninhabited islands, coral reefs, and lush greenery. It’s a fitting way to end a day of island-hopping, especially as the boat often functions as a “taxi” between islands, adding a practical aspect to the journey.

This trip is ideal for first-timers wanting a taste of Fiji’s natural beauty and culture without extensive travel or expense. Families will appreciate the variety of activities and the relaxed pace. If you’re a solo traveler or a couple looking for a reasonably priced day out with plenty of options, it delivers good value.

While not suitable for those seeking a secluded or lengthy adventure, it’s perfect for travelers craving a fun-filled, scenic, and culturally enriching day with friends or family.

For $92.70 per person, this tour offers a solid mix of scenic cruising, active pursuits, cultural entertainment, and a delicious meal. The included amenities—unlimited drinks, watersports gear, semi-submersible, and a craft market—add up to a generous experience for the price.

What truly makes this trip stand out is the way it balances relaxation with adventure. You’ll get enough time to unwind on the beach or snorkel in clear waters, yet also enjoy engaging performances and authentic local touches.

However, keep in mind that the return cruise can be less smooth, and the day’s pace might feel a touch rushed if you prefer more quiet time or longer relaxation. It’s well-suited for travelers eager to explore multiple facets of Fiji in a single day, especially those with kids who will relish the variety.

In summary, if you’re after a fun, scenic, and well-organized day that highlights the best of Fiji’s island life—without breaking the bank—this is a strong choice.

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, South Sea Cruises can arrange transfers between most Nadi accommodations and Port Denarau, making the experience hassle-free.

How long is the boat ride to South Sea Island?
The ride aboard a high-speed catamaran takes roughly 30 minutes, providing quick access to the island.

What activities are included?
You’ll have access to snorkeling gear, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and a semi-submersible coral viewer, all free of charge.

Is food and drinks included?
Yes, a BBQ buffet lunch with salads is provided, along with unlimited local beer, house wine, soft drinks, bottled water, and soft drinks during the day.

Can I participate if I have young children?
Absolutely. The island has kid-friendly options like the saltwater pool and kids’ club, and the activities are suitable for small children.

Are cultural performances part of the experience?
Yes, traditional Fijian dance performances occur during lunch, adding an authentic cultural flavor—except on Sundays.

What about the return journey?
The cruise back can last about two hours and might be rough, especially if weather conditions aren’t ideal.

Is there a craft market?
Yes, the market is available daily except Sundays, offering local crafts and souvenirs.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour hosts up to 10 travelers, making it a more intimate and relaxed experience.

What should I wear or bring?
Swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle are recommended. You might also want a light cover-up for sun protection or to stay comfortable during the cruise.

To sum it up, the South Sea Island Combo Trip offers a balanced look into Fiji’s natural beauty and vibrant culture. It’s a smart choice for those seeking a value-packed, active, and culturally rich day in paradise. Whether you’re a family, a couple, or a solo traveler, you’re likely to find this tour both enjoyable and memorable—especially if you love a mix of adventure and relaxation in a stunning setting.