Scuba Diving in Fiji

When it comes to honeymoon resorts Fiji offers some of the globe’s most romantic possibilities. This chain of more than three hundred South Pacific islands stretching among pristine coral reefs also presents some unforgettable scuba diving opportunities. For couples interested in combining their diving adventures and honeymoons Fiji is the ideal destination.

Honeymooners traveling to Fiji require an international flight or — for a journey as enticing as their destination — an ocean cruise. Awaiting their arrival are numerous resorts perfect for scuba diving excursion bases. The Lalati Resort and Spa, overlooking the Beqa Island Lagoon, combines boutique accommodations with diving lessons for beginners and all-inclusive excursions for more experienced divers.

With some 190 miles of coral reefs separating Beqa Lagoon from the open sea, Lalati’s more than 100 dive sites provide up-close viewing of colorful clown fish, lionfish, blue ribbon eels, delicate seahorses and other fascinating marine life.

The Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort on Savusavu pampers honeymooners with five-star luxury. Tucked among private gardens, its Honeymoon Reef accommodation has an expansive, hot tub-equipped deck overlooking the bay.

The resort’s typical one-week dive vacation package includes three days of 2-tank dives, along with all gourmet meals, four off-site excursions and complimentary snorkeling. The dive staff helps newcomers learn proper scuba techniques. More experienced divers are free to explore on their own. The 37-foot dive vessel L’Aventure sets out on half-day excursions each morning.

As a different approach to scuba diving honeymoons Fiji offers live-aboard diving cruises. Conde Nast has named the Tui Tai Adventure Cruise one of its eight World’s Sexiest Cruises. Each five- to seven-night expedition aboard the 140-foot Tui Tai offers kayaking, mountain biking, rainforest hiking and snorkeling opportunities. Between 13 and 19 dives and culturally enriching visits to unspoiled Fiji villages round out an itinerary that includes stops at Natewa Bay and the Ringgold Atolls. Non-divers are welcome at a discounted fare.

The 123-foot, sail-equipped yacht Nai’a offers seven- and 10-night live-aboard cruises with 26 to 38 dives. Honeymooners have a choice of four air-conditioned, double-bed cabins with unlimited hot-water showers. Both voyages visit the Koro Sea, Nigali Passage, Wakaya, Gau and Koro.

The longer trip also stops at the Namena Islands, Nananuira Passage and Nukurauvula. Cruises depart from Lautoka Harbor on Viti Levu’s northern coast. The vessel has a full complement of equipment for processing digital photos, slides and DVDs.

The best time to schedule a scuba diving trip or honeymoon in Fiji is during the May-to-October dry season. This time of year sees comfortable temperatures and humidity and a reduced cyclone risk. Rainfall during Fiji’s wet season often lasts for days at a stretch.