Making the most of Suva Fiji
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Cruise ships dock near town, with the city center a 5-10 minute walk away.
A printable map to take with you.
Fiji’s most visited cruise port is Suva; Lautoka follows closely in second place and Dravuni is third.
Sightseeing
On the south-east shores of mountainous Viti Levu ("Great Fiji"), Suva is both the capital and principal port. Viti Levu is the largest of the over 800 islands forming the Republic of Fiji in the south Pacific Ocean. Strong local folk traditions include fire walks, welcoming ceremonies, wood-carving and making tree-bark cloth. The Fiji Museum presents the island’s proud history, including an impressive collection of war canoes.
See fire walking and traditional dances at the Indian cultural center.
Getting around
Tour vendors are at the pier.
Food and shopping
Victoria Parade makes Suva city a popular shopping destination. Its offerings include jewellery, cameras, high fidelity audio equipment, clothes, handicrafts, artifacts, souvenir items and original artworks. Shops generally trade from 8.00a.m. to 7.00p.m., including on Sundays and public holidays. Near the bus station and cruise port, do not miss the colourful, fascinating main Suva Market: local Fijians are always ready with a quick smile and friendly explanation of their goods. Buy delicious seasonal tropical fruits, including pineapple…
A free ship shuttle serves Prouds, an upscale department store. It is a short distance, so walking is a good alternative; the pharmacy is on floor 4.
Money
Currency: Fijian dollar (FJD).
Staying connected
English is official, used for educational instruction and spoken by most people in Nadi, Suva and any other major tourist area, though it may be spoken with difficulty on a few less touristy islands. Most adults and children speak Fijian or Hindustani (Hindi/Urdu); learning even a few key phrases will help you gain local respect.