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Frequently Asked Questions

Excited to begin your Fiji sailing trip? We can’t wait to welcome you onboard ‘Aparima’ to set sail on the stunning waters of Fiji. While booking with us is easy, we understand you might have a few questions before you set off. That’s why we’ve compiled all the information you need to ensure a smooth and enjoyable booking and planning process with us. These are some of the questions our guests have asked us previously, and we hope they help you too!

Booking

How do I book a charter with Big Blue Fiji?

Booking a charter with Big Blue Fiji is easy! You can email us at bookings@bigbluefiji.com with your preferred dates, group size, and the activities you’d love to experience. Or, give us a call at +679 772 5679 to discuss your options and begin your adventure.

How far in advance should I book my charter?

We recommend booking your Big Blue Fiji charter at least 3-6 months in advance, especially during peak seasons (typically May to October and December). This ensures availability and allows us to best accommodate your preferred dates and any special requests you may have.

What information do I need to provide when booking?

Booking your unforgettable Fijian escape with Big Blue Fiji is quick and easy! Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

  • Your charter type: Let us know if you’re interested in an overnight charter or a day cruise.
  • Group size: The number of guests joining your adventure helps us tailor the experience to your needs. Inform us of the total number of people (pax) in your group.
  • Duration (for Overnight Charters): Inform us your ideal departure date and specify the desired number of days you wish to spend on the catamaran.
  • Your activity preferences: While we curate personalised itineraries based on your chosen charter type, feel free to share any activities that particularly interest you. This could include snorkelling, fishing, diving, or island hopping.

Once you provide these details, our friendly booking team will get in touch again to discuss your preferences further and suggest the perfect itinerary tailored to your needs.

Can I change the dates after making a booking?

Absolutely! We understand that plans can sometimes change. You do have the flexibility to adjust your booking dates after confirmation, subject to availability.

To ensure a smooth change and avoid disappointment, we recommend informing us of your desired date modification at least 30 days prior to your originally scheduled charter. This allows us ample time to check availability and adjust your itinerary accordingly.

The sooner you can let us know, the better chance we have of accommodating your new preferred dates. Our team will be happy to discuss your options and work with you to find a suitable alternative.

We're unsure of the final number in our group yet - we might be 5 or 6 people. Is it a problem to book for 5 now and add someone later?

No worries at all! We can easily accommodate that. Feel free to go ahead and book your charter for 5 people now. If the sixth person confirms later, we can simply add them to your booking and adjust your final balance accordingly. That way, you can secure your spot while you finalise your group size.

Charter Details

What types of charters do you offer?

We offer a variety of charters to suit your preferences:

  • Overnight Charters: Enjoy a multi-day adventure exploring the beautiful islands of Fiji with personalised itineraries.
  • Day Cruises: Experience a full day of fun and relaxation on the water, perfect for those with limited time.
  • Fishing Charters: Tailored for fishing enthusiasts, offering both half-day and full-day options.
  • Diving Charters: Explore Fiji’s vibrant underwater world with our specialised diving charters.
  • Spear Fishing Charters: For those looking for a more adventurous experience, we offer spearfishing charters.
  • Honeymoon Charters: Romantic and private charters tailored for honeymooners seeking a special getaway.
  • Corporate and Special Event Charters: Customised charters for corporate team-building events, birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions.

What is included in the charter price?

The inclusions for your Big Blue Fiji charter depend on whether you choose a day cruise or an overnight charter: 

  • Highly qualified & experienced captain, crew, and chef
  • All meals and snacks
  • Drinks including water, soft drinks, tea, coffee, beers, local spirits, and wines
  • Marine park and port fees
  • Snorkelling gear
  • Motorised and non-motorised water sports equipment
  • All local government taxes
  • 23ft 60hp longboat tender
  • Fishing gear (as per itinerary)
  • BBQ Lunch on board or beach BBQ at Musket Cove, Malolo Island (for Day Cruise only)
  • All local taxes

Can we customise our charter itinerary?

Absolutely! Your adventure with Big Blue Fiji is all about you. We offer fully customisable itineraries to match your interests and desires.

Curious about the luxury drinks package. What's included in the package, and how much does it cost?

The Luxury Drinks Package is an optional add-on that costs US$50 per person, per day. It includes a selection of premium imported spirits on top of the standard beverages already offered on board. We understand that not everyone enjoys alcohol, and we’re happy to be flexible. If someone in your group wouldn’t like to participate in the luxury drinks package, just let us know, and we won’t charge them for it. This way, everyone gets what they want!

Payment & Pricing

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept wire transfers only. 

Are there any additional costs not included in the charter price?

Yes, the Luxury Drinks Package is available at an extra cost of US$50 per person, per day. Additionally, the Half-Day Spa is also available at an additional cost which is payable direct to the spa. We can also arrange dinner ashore at Donu, Fiji’s best Japanese restaurant on the islands. Dinner would be payable direct to the resort. If you wish to include these in your experience, please let us know, and we will tailor your package accordingly.

Do you offer any special discounts or promotions at certain periods of the year?

We occasionally run offers so keep an eye on our Facebook and Instagram for updates. 

Activities & Experiences

Are there any age restrictions for activities?

While most of our activities are suitable for guests of all ages, we do have some age considerations for some of our water activities for safety reasons:

  • Snorkelling: Generally suitable for children aged 6 and above, provided they are comfortable in the water and supervised by an adult.
  • Diving: Participants must be at least 10 years old.
  • Fishing: Suitable for all ages, but children should be supervised by an adult.
  • Water Sports (Paddleboarding, Wake Skates, etc.): Recommended for children aged 8 and above, depending on their swimming ability and comfort level in the water.

We always prioritise safety and will work with you to ensure that all activities are appropriate for your group’s age and skill levels. If you have any specific concerns or requirements, please let us know, and we’ll be happy to accommodate them.

Do you provide equipment for activities such as snorkelling, diving, and fishing?

Yes, we provide all the necessary equipment for our activities on board and this includes snorkelling, diving, and fishing. Our gear is top-notch and maintained to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Are there any major weather differences between September and July that would impact activities like sailing, diving, and surfing?

While September can see slightly warmer temperatures compared to July, the difference is quite subtle. Generally, you can expect beautiful clear skies with refreshing evenings throughout both months. Neither month should significantly affect your sailing, diving, or surfing experience.

Can we change the itinerary on the fly if there is a good swell or the weather is not conducive to a certain activity?

Yes. All of our itineraries are just a sample of the places we aim to go. It’s all weather dependent and we will adjust accordingly. If the surf is better at the start, for example, we’ll just flip the itinerary around!

We're all certified divers and interested in diving trips during our charter. Do you partner with local companies, or do you handle it yourselves?

Big Blue Fiji takes care of everything diving-related right on board. We’re a registered dive company, equipped to take up to six certified divers on private dives throughout your charter. It’s all included and we supply high quality gear for all of you. 

Is there a specific lobster season in Fiji?

Lobsters are a little hit and miss here. Unlike some regions, Fiji doesn’t have a strictly defined lobster season. Despite that, we have a couple of spots in the Yasawa Islands where we’ve had success finding lobster in the past.

Food & Beverages

Are meals and drinks included in the charter price?

Yes! Enjoy delicious meals and a variety of drinks as part of your charter experience. From freshly prepared dishes by our expert chefs to a selection of beverages including water, soft drinks, tea, coffee, beers, local spirits, and wines, we’ve got your culinary needs covered.

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes, we can. Laura, being celiac, understands the critical importance of dietary care and ensures that all meals are prepared to meet your specific needs. She also ensures that our chefs on board are trained to recognise and accommodate various dietary restrictions and allergies, providing a safe and enjoyable dining experience for all our guests.

Can we bring our own food and drinks on board?

Of course! We welcome you to bring your own food and drinks onboard to supplement our offerings.

Safety & Equipment

What safety measures are in place on board?

At Big Blue Fiji, we take safety very seriously. Our crew members are fully trained and qualified in First Aid, which means they are equipped to manage any emergencies that may arise. We adhere to strict safety protocols to provide peace of mind for all our guests throughout the journey.

Is there Wi-Fi available on the catamaran?

Big Blue Fiji provides Wi-Fi access onboard the catamaran to help you stay connected during your adventure. However, it’s important to note that due to the remote nature of some of the Fijian islands we visit, the signal can occasionally be weak. But rest assured, any connectivity lapses are usually brief.

Does the catamaran have shaded areas for relaxation?

Absolutely! Our catamaran offers spacious shaded areas to escape the sun and enjoy the breeze.

Do you provide life jackets for all passengers?

Yes, we provide life jackets for all passengers on every charter, including essential marine safety equipment like life rafts, comprehensive first aid kits and oxygen.

Is there a first aid kit on board?

Yes, we have a fully stocked first aid kit on board, ready for any minor emergencies.

Cancellation & Refunds

What is your cancellation policy?

Charters are subject to wind, tide, weather conditions, and mechanical safety, and are operated at the sole discretion of Luxury Yacht Charters (Fiji) Pte Limited (trading as Big Blue Fiji) and Grand Bleu (Fiji) PTE Limited. In the unlikely event of a weather-related cancellation, we will do our best to reschedule to the closest available date. We highly recommend booking flexible flights and travel insurance for added peace of mind. While cancelled charters are not refunded, we will provide a letter for insurance claims.

Are refunds available if we cancel our charter?

Refunds for cancellations are not available for Big Blue Fiji charters, however, to provide some flexibility, we can offer to change your dates. We’ll be happy to work with you to reschedule your charter for a different date that better suits your needs. This is subject to availability.

We recommend reviewing our Cancellation Policy in detail before booking your charter. If you have any concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us!

General

What should we bring with us on the charter?

Relax, we’ve got you covered! At Big Blue Fiji, we take care of most everything. Your charter includes meals, snacks, beverages, linens and towels, Pre Fiji toiletries, use of water sports equipment, and the expertise of our friendly crew. So simply pack your essentials, a sense of adventure, and get ready to experience the magic of Fiji!

Where do we board the catamaran?

The starting point for your unforgettable Fijian journey is Wailoaloa Beach! This stunning beach is conveniently located on the mainland of Viti Levu, Fiji’s largest island. We’ll provide your on the ground transfers for a  hassle-free start to your Big Blue Fiji experience.

What languages does the crew speak?

Our crew primarily speaks English and Fijian so we can teach you some of the local language whilst on board. We are dedicated to ensuring clear and effective communication with all our guests to provide the best possible experience on board. If you have any specific language needs, please let us know in advance, and we will do our best to accommodate them.

Are pets allowed on the catamaran?

While we adore animals at Big Blue Fiji, we currently do not allow pets onboard our catamarans. Our priority is ensuring the safety and well-being of all our guests and crew. The catamaran environment, with open areas and constant movement, can be challenging for pets.

Have More Questions? We’re Here to Help!

Still curious about something or have a question not addressed here? Don’t hesitate to reach out! Our team at Big Blue Fiji is always happy to chat and ensure you have all the information you need to plan your perfect Fijian adventure. Email us directly at bookings@bigbluefiji.com, call us at +679 772 5679 or click the button below to be directed to our form. 

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