The Government has reaffirmed its support for locally driven tourism investment following the launch of a new cruise vessel aimed at expanding Fiji’s premium travel offering.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka officiated at the launch of the MV Yasawa Princess II at Port Denarau in Nadi on 26 March, marking a significant addition to the country’s small-ship cruising sector.
Operated by Blue Lagoon Cruises, the vessel adds 22 cabins with capacity for 44 guests. Acquired in July 2025 and subsequently refurbished, it joins the existing Fiji Princess, bringing total capacity to 54 cabin berths per week across three-, four- and seven-night itineraries.
Local sailings are scheduled to commence in April, with the vessel’s first international voyage set for 27 April 2026.
Speaking at the launch, Gavoka commended Blue Lagoon Cruises as a Fiji-owned operator with a long-standing presence in the tourism sector, highlighting the importance of local enterprise in driving sustainable economic growth.
“I hold in high regard initiatives driven by local businesses and entrepreneurs committed to delivering services that create meaningful benefits for our communities,” he said.
The launch forms part of the Coalition Government’s broader strategy to strengthen Fiji’s premium tourism segment, with a particular focus on experiential and small-scale travel.
Gavoka said small-ship cruising allows visitors to engage more deeply with Fiji’s maritime regions, offering access to remote destinations and cultural experiences beyond traditional tourism hubs.
Central to the company’s itineraries is the Yasawa Islands corridor, widely regarded as one of Fiji’s most distinctive tourism regions. The expansion of cruise capacity is expected to support economic activity in rural and maritime communities, including job creation and opportunities linked to local culture and services.
The Minister also highlighted the vessel’s fully Fijian crew, describing it as a point of national pride and a reflection of ongoing investment in maritime skills development.
He noted that the crew successfully completed the vessel’s delivery voyage from Brisbane to Port Denarau, demonstrating local capability in international maritime operations.
The addition of the MV Yasawa Princess II is expected to strengthen Fiji’s position in the niche cruise market, as the government continues to prioritise high-value, low-impact tourism as a driver of long-term growth.
