Festive rush as islanders head home for Christmas and New Year

The Port Muaiwalu was filled with excitement and Christmas cheer yesterday as large crowds gathered to board ships heading to the outer islands, marking one of the busiest periods of the year for sea travel.

Among the many travellers was Tuwai Vevenikau from Lomaji Village, Kabara, Lau, who waited eagerly at the wharf to begin his journey home.

“There’s always something special about heading back to your village,” Mr Tadulala said.

“I’m excited to see my family, catch up with friends, and enjoy the festive season in Lomaji Village. I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.”

The jetty buzzed with activity as families, students and workers reunited, carrying bags, food supplies and gifts for loved ones.

The scene reflected the strong tradition of returning home for Christmas, a time deeply valued by many Fijians.

Also travelling home was Peni Veiqaravi from  Komo Village, Kabara, Lau, who said spending Christmas in the village meant everything to him.

“I’m really happy today because I’m going to spend Christmas with my family back in the village,” he said.

“I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.” 

For Tukana Tadulala of Kabalagi Village, Kabara, Lau, the journey home was a reminder of the importance of family and tradition.

“After months away, going back home for Christmas is about reconnecting with family, friends and the roots that shaped us,” he said.

Meanwhile, Interlink Shipping general manager Adrian Prasad said the festive season had brought a significant increase in passenger numbers, with ships operating at 80 to 90 per cent capacity.

“Our main routes include Batiki, Natovi, Nabouwalu, Ellington, Kadavu, Vanua Balavu, Moala, Northern Lau and the Lomaiviti Group, with some services operating daily,” Mr Prasad said.

He said that Interlink Shipping continued to improve consistency and reliability to ensure communities had regular and convenient access to transport.

Mr Prasad also reminded passengers that luggage allowances remained standard at two bags per person, free of charge, and stressed that all vessels operated within passenger limits set by the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji.

“Safety and people come first,” he said, urging travellers to choose reliable and compliant service providers.

As ships departed from the port, the excitement and anticipation were clear.

For many, the journey home for Christmas is more than travel it is a meaningful return to family, culture and village life, where the true spirit of the festive season is found.