This was a key part of a famil supported by Fiji Airways, Tourism Fiji and South Sea Cruises, which brought together New Zealand and Australian wholesale partners to experience the ship’s refinements firsthand, and assess its appeal across key markets.
Launched in April, the twenty-two cabin ship MV Yasawa Princess II marks a refreshed approach to boutique small-ship cruising.
As travellers increasingly favour smaller, experience-led travel in a safe destination close to home, the product offers a balance of Fijian authenticity, added comfort and ease of access. While three, four, and seven-night itineraries remain the hero product, it is the onboard experience which has been refined.
Upgraded features include larger bathrooms, wider cabin windows, and a redesigned bar area with easy indoor-outdoor flow. A recent addition, an innovative inflatable pool ‘arena’ attaching to the stern, creates a dedicated swim zone for guests, when conditions permit.
Cath McLeod from Wanderlust Travel says ‘the ship is a beautifully elevated product and the perfect option to sell with confidence.’
Lindy Christian of Our Pacific feels it is a well-positioned product for the market. ‘A relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, cabins that are a generous size for a small ship, and the all-Fijian crew is what makes the experience stand out.’
Jo Rendall of Infinity echoed the sentiments, noting that the Yasawas continue to evolve, with a range of new opportunities emerging.
Offerings such as Mai Sunset Beach Resort on Naviti Island, visited during the famil, are an example of South Sea Cruises’ ongoing commitment to product development across Fiji. ‘We can now literally put together a whole itinerary with SSC products, including a one-stop-shop day experience, cruising on Blue Lagoon, boutique resorts and island resort transfers on the Yasawa Flyer,’ Rendall adds.
Pre cruise, the group stayed at the recently renovated Tanoa Hotel in Nadi, experienced an e-bike tour with iBike Fiji, visited Fijiana Cacao chocolate factory, and dined at Radisson Blu Resort in Denarau.
Cath McLeod, Wanderlust Travel with Sheryn Ambler, Fiji Airways
Jo Rendall, Infinity Holidays, with Tom Svensen, South Sea Cruises
Alyssa Field, South Sea Cruises, with Sally-ann Rogers, Tourism Fiji Australia
Cath McLeod, Wanderlust Travel; Rowena McCarron, Flight Centre; Lindy Christian, Our Pacific
