South Sea Cruises Group Acquires Tivua Island

A 35-year-old tourism legacy is in doubt after its prime island getaway went under new ownership.

Captain Cook Cruises' premier day cruise destination, Tivua Island, has gone to its rival operator, South Sea Cruises, leaving many scratching their heads in confusion.

Established more than two decades ago by indigenous Fijian business leader, Semi Koroilavesau, the company later teamed up with Captain Cook Australia, to raise the local brand.

Tivua Island is a day cruise island for international guests and renowned locally this time of the year. Where most tourism operators suspended operations during the COVID pandemic, Captain Cook continued to operate, reflecting the company's resilience.

But the latest development speaks to the fact that Fiji is not ready for luxury expedition cruises; for those that want, the superyacht sector will suffice for a very high price that Captain Cook Cruises could not compete with.

Captain Cook earlier leased MS Caledonian Sky which replaced the Reef Endeavour in November 2023, that many international customers said was too costly.

The vessel was returned to the Mediterranean Sea where it continues to operate. Captain Cook Cruises' provided three, four and seven-night cruises to the Mamanucas, Yasawas, Lau, Kadavu and the remote North.

In the meantime, Captain Cook Cruises - with its new general manager Robert Wade - will continue its day cruise services to Tivua.

Mr Wade once operated Hide a way Resort along the Coral Coast.

New owners

The fact that South Sea Cruises is owned by Fijian Holdings Limited - and is working its way back to number one - heralds a heavy undertone to the growing ethno-nationalistic sentiment creeping across the country.

But Tourism Fiji chief executive officer, Brent Hill said South Sea Cruises' strong marketing, logistics, and resources, made the transition seamless.

"We look forward to seeing the redevelopment plans taking shape," Mr Hill said.

"We will also continue to work closely with Captain Cook Cruises as it pivots to a multi-island day cruise business, and ensure the shift elevates the experience to new levels and continues to offer their great service to tourists.

"This development will significantly enhance Fiji's tourism scene, offering visitors even more unforgettable experiences and we look forward to the plans taking shape under the new owners."

South Sea Cruises plans to close the island after May, to undertake a major redevelopment, for world class experience at the day trip destination.

"The redevelopment and reopening of Tivua Island are set to compliment the unprecedented surge in hotel and resort projects currently underway in the greater Nadi and Denarau area, by offering an increase in the number of quality experiences available to the islands," South Sea Cruises said.

"South Sea Cruises understands better than most that international guests staying in these hotels and resorts aspire to explore the islands through one or more day trips.

"A redeveloped Tivua Island will cater to this demand, offering an opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of one of Fiji's very best beaches and extensive coral gardens while experiencing world-class hospitality and upgraded on-island facilities."

The group said it would share its redevelopment plans for Tivua Island in the next several months.

The new Tivua Island will reopening in 2026 when it closes in May this year, and add to South Sea's two day trip destinations, South Sea Island and Malamala Beach Club, and its "highly successful" Sabre by South Sea Sailing.

The group will also launch an exciting fast-boat experience under the South Sea Cats brand in April, 2025.

Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj