Moceiwai Knows the Mamanucas like the back of his hand
Anasa Turuva Moceiwai’s livelihood is with the sea – be it him transporting tourists, divers, surfers and travellers or fishing.
Mr Moceiwai, 41 is the captain of Na Kabasi (Compass) a boat that is stationed at the Marina Boat Club in Nadi and hired by those who need one.
His name literally translates sleeping at sea (in water) in the iTaukei language.
“I love the sea, it is my livelihood and that is what is important,” Mr Moceiwai said.
Na Kabasi is owned by Samuela Tuatuacoko.
Mr Moceiwai, the skipper from Navoci villager holds a first level captain qualification which qualifies him to sail a 24-tonne boat.
“Na Kabasi like other boats is a licensed vessel which like the other vessels docked here can take tourists out on a cruise or for diving and or surfing,” he said.
“But it can only carry six passengers at any one time.
“It has all – the safety kit, life jackets and seats for passengers.
“This boat provides transportation for tourists and locals to the Mamanuca Islands such as Beachcomber, Treasure, Bounty and Malamala.
“Surfers also hire me to take them to Tavarua.
“I have been in the area for long that I know the place well – I know the Mamanuc(s) like the back of my hand.
According to Mr Moceiwai hiring cost is $400 to $500 for a five to six hours hire.
“Sailing is a job that I do every day. Whatever income I receive supports my family back home. It is not a daily routine for the tourist to hire the boat, we also fish to supplement our income.”
“Sometimes we make good catches and sell the fish. Every day I make sure I put food on the table.
“If I don’t make money on a day, I cast my own net or fish around the seaside areas.
“I can’t be idle – if the boat is not on hire I look for other means to make money so I fish then divide what I can sell and the rest I take home for my family.
“New Year or any other public holiday is just like a normal day to me. I would rather spend it out at sea, fishing or doing something that brings life to me and my family,” he added.
Mr Moceiwai achieved his first level certificate from the then Maritime School. He had attended Nadi District School for Classes One to Eight and then moved on to Ratu Navula College.
He is married with five children and they lives at Navoci Village in Nadi.
