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From its cosmopolitan downtown area to its quaint villages, Suva offers visitors a truly well rounded view of Fiji’s interesting culture.
Suva is located on a scenic harbour in the southeast corner on Fiji’s main island of Viti Levu. It is home to over a third of the nation’s population and is a conglomeration of everything you’ll find in the Pacific – people from many islands, exotic foods, traders, businesses of all kinds, students and, of course, travellers. Although it’s a busy, sophisticated place, it still manages to keep the relaxed pace for which the Pacific is so well renowned.
Population
177,000 (2011 census)
Language
Fijian, English and Hindi
Government
Republic
Currency
Fijian Dollar
Guest favourites, the most booked Shore Tours at this port
Our handpicked Shore Tours are a must for any guest.
Suva was once the administration centre of the Commonwealth colony of Fiji. As a result there is an abundance of grand old architecture. You’ll also find the fascinating Museum of Fiji and the beautifully kept Thurston Gardens. Be sure to sample the local cuisine, particularly Indian curry.
Heading in a westerly direction from Suva, follow the coastal road to Pacific Harbour and the tropical rainforests that fringe the Coral Coast. In the protection of Beqa Island you can see the ritual of firewalking, traditionally only ever performed by the men who originate from there. You can also visit a resort or take a rainforest walk.
If you want to see a traditional Fijian village, join one of our many Shore Tours and see how the locals live. Music is at the heart of every community and most villages will perform traditional song and dance for visitors. Some villages are only accessible by boat, whereas others are only a short drive from the wharf.
Your ship will dock at the South Kings Wharf in the heart of Suva.
Taxis are available in Suva. Make sure you agree on a fare with your driver before departing.
Suva has an abundance of restaurants and cafes to choose from, offering everything from traditional Fijian and Indo- Fijian to Chinese, Japanese and Western. Fijian food is very tasty, but the best of it takes quite a while to prepare and cook the traditional way. There are a number of variations based on local vegetables – especially sweet potato, breadfruit and taro combined with meat or fish, then wrapped in banana leaves and cooked slowly over an open fire. Quarantine authorities do not generally allow food such as fruit and vegetables, dairy and meat products or sandwiches to be taken off the ship, however commercially packaged confectionery, chips and bottled drinking water are allowed subject to inspection.
Visiting local markets is a fascinating and worthwhile experience for visitors to Suva. Tapa cloth, jewellery, wood carvings and bowls are very popular. Steer clear of ‘traditional’ masks as these aren’t authentically Fijian. Its also best to avoid street peddlers and sword sellers. Downtown streets like Victoria Parade and Cumming Street are major shopping areas. The Government Handicraft Centre also has an excellent selection of traditional Fijian craftwork. Any souvenirs that are made of plant material or animal products must be declared to quarantine authorities on arrival in Australia or New Zealand. Plant material such as certain seeds and animal products including feathers maybe restricted or need to be treated at the owners’ s expense on arrival in Australia or New Zealand.
Suva can be hot and humid, but rain and sea breezes often bring welcome relief. May to October is the dry season, however Suva is subject to more rain than many other parts of the country. Make sure you stay hydrated and sheltered from the sun.
Public telephones are located around the centeral part of the city. Mobile coverage is generally available as long as global roaming is selected prior to leaving home. Internet Cafes may also be available in Suva, WiFi is available at Tapoo’s City.
Credit cards and charge cards are widely accepted. Automatic teller machines can provide currency to foreign card holders.
To make your day ashore as enjoyable as possible, please wear comfortable flat soled shoes, lightweight clothing and a hat - and don’t forget your swimwear! You are also advised to bring sunscreen, insect repellent and bottled water. It’s also a good idea to pack an umbrella. Please cover up when walking around Suva and in local villages. Nude or topless bathing is not permitted on any beach.
There are a range of tours available for you to really get the most out of your time in Suva. Tours can be booked onboard at the Shore Tours desk and are subject to availability. Passengers are required to meet at a specific location for each Shore Tour departure. Please refer to your tour ticket for the correct time and place.
Coral is an extremely precious marine organism. In an effort to preserve its natural beauty and habitat please avoid touching it in all circumstances. During your time ashore we also ask that you dispose of your rubbish thoughtfully.