Yasawa boat operators say fuel costs have doubled passenger fares

Boat operators in the Yasawa Group say high fuel costs continue to strain their businesses, despite fuel prices falling from yesterday.

Operators say months of elevated fuel prices have driven up operating costs, forcing fare increases and making it harder for islanders to travel to and from the mainland.

Nakoromakawa Village headman Apete Nawaqa, on Waya Island, said fuel prices had significantly affected boat operations.

"This has been a real challenge for boat operators. Fuel costs about $3.30 per litre. To operate in a day, we need to buy between $300 and $400 worth of fuel," Mr Nawaqa said.

"It depends on the number of passengers. If there are not enough passengers, we cannot operate because we will not recover the fuel costs."

Mr Nawaqa said the one-way fare to Viti Levu was now $50 per passenger.

"We need enough passengers to cover the $400 or $500 in operating costs before the boat can leave. If we don't have enough passengers, the trip cannot go ahead."

He said higher fares had reduced the number of islanders travelling to Lautoka to sell produce or replenish supplies.

"Some passengers come to the mainland to buy food and other necessities for their families, but after making their purchases they do not have enough money left to pay the full fare to return home."

"Because of the relationship we have with the boat operators, some passengers are allowed to pay only half the fare and settle the balance later. That also affects the boat operators financially."

Mr Nawaqa said the one-way fare before fuel prices increased was $25.

"We are hoping fuel prices will continue to fall because maritime transport is our only link to the mainland. Most of the seafood and coconuts sold at the Lautoka Market come from Yasawa. High fuel prices affect those of us who supply produce, as well as the boat operators and the villagers."

Meanwhile, the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) announced lower fuel prices for July on Tuesday.

The revised prices, which took effect yesterday, are expected to benefit households, motorists and businesses nationwide.

Diesel recorded the biggest reduction, falling by between $1.19 and $1.25 per litre, depending on location. Petrol and other fuel products were also reduced under the monthly fuel price review.