Mana Island day trip with lunch from Lautoka

Reviews

What travellers say3.6 · 36 total

• Andrew W

  A horrendous rip off - AVOID

  We had high hopes for the half day trip to Mana Island despite the bad reviews being outdated, but it was a regrettable choice. We paid around $200 AUD each for a 1215 departure, expecting a lovely cruise and a buffet lunch at a beautiful island. The ferry ride to Mana Island was well-organized and pleasant, but things quickly declined upon arrival. We learned we were the only participants for the day, and our host seemed more focused on their own fatigue than making us feel welcome. The resort was eerily quiet and resembled a children’s summer camp, which was disappointing compared to our own accommodations. When we were taken to the cafeteria, we found out that during low season, the advertised buffet wasn't available, and we were handed a snack menu instead. We chose items that totaled $42, creating an awkward situation, and the food itself was mediocre. If the buffet is not available, the description should be updated accordingly. After lunch, we explored the resort, but the pool was unappealing, and while the viewpoints offered great views, the island felt neglected and didn't match the romantic Pacific Island experience we expected. Trying to get a drink on the beach proved frustrating since they only accepted charges to a room, and we weren’t guests. We were relieved it was only a half day trip, as we quickly ran out of things to do in the heat. The cruise back was enjoyable, but if South Sea Cruises had just charged for the ferry ride instead of labeling it a "half day tour," it would have sufficed. Charging approximately $200 AUD per person is simply ridiculous and feels like a scam. I recommend avoiding this day cruise and South Sea Cruises altogether.

• Melina_S

  Do not recommend.

  I would not suggest this tour for several reasons. The guide seemed unwelcoming and was difficult to identify because she wasn't in uniform. She provided incorrect timelines for activities, leading us to trust her advice on dining and jet skiing, which ultimately left us confused and abandoned. We were not informed about the jet ski cancellations due to windy conditions until later, making us feel like we wasted a day and spent over $1,000 for just a long boat ride and a swim. While the pool staff tried to help, it was too late for us to enjoy our time. Additionally, our dinner reservations were missed because of delays on the boat ride back. We arrived late due to multiple stops. Be aware that there is no cash accepted on the island, and there is a surcharge for card payments. The buffet food was decent, but drinks and food were overpriced. Overall, there are better islands to visit than this one.

• Jillian_N

  Beautiful place

  The island was stunning and the lunch was enjoyable. However, I was disappointed that the tour company failed to mention that the resort doesn't accept cash. I ended up wasting time waiting for a supervisor to authorize a cash transaction at the bar. Had this been included in the description, I would have brought my cards. Aside from that, Samson was friendly and offered assistance.

• nurijei2023

  Nice way to get to our island resort

  We didn't participate in the Mana Island tour but instead took a transfer to our resort. The check-in area was quite chaotic, which seems to be typical for all operators out of Port Denarau. Be sure to board early to secure a preferable seat. The courtesy bus was modern, comfortable with decent reclining seats, and well air-conditioned, offering ample space for luggage. Just note that the pick-up from Nadi Airport is only at the international terminal. Our driver was excellent. The catamaran Tiger 5 was clean and modern, providing a comfortable journey. There were various viewing areas, and passengers were free to move around and greet the captain. The onboard snack bar was reasonably priced, especially for a captive audience, and they accepted UK currency. In fact, my daughter found that her ice cream was cheaper in sterling than in Fijian dollars. The staff were very friendly, providing informative commentary about the islands, resorts, and some recent history. They gave ample notice before each island arrival, allowing plenty of time to get on and off without any rush. Transfers to some of the smaller islands were via older boats. The views were breathtaking, and I would have enjoyed a longer cruise.

• LachlanKan

  Good Ferry Service

  The ferry service was excellent. The boat to our resort was clean and air-conditioned, and the staff efficiently managed our bags. The trip was also very fast. I highly recommend it.

• Mark_C

  Nice beaches and view, but disappointing apart from that

  The beaches offered a beautiful view and the coral was nice, and while the staff were friendly, the resort itself felt very outdated and neglected. The loud music made it hard to find relief from the heat, and the buffet lunch was unavailable, leaving us with only a limited menu. I was eager to leave the island.

• Sanghr

  Excellent Day Cruise

  This cruise to Mana Island is truly one of the best options available. It’s a full-day excursion with ample opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and enjoying the included food and drinks. You'll truly feel the warmth of Fijian hospitality.

• carmel255060

  Overpriced

  This experience was quite overpriced. The resort seemed to be in poor condition, and the buffet was lacking. Overall, I was very disappointed considering the high cost. Some members of our group did enjoy the snorkeling, however.

• G2642IYaf

  DO NOT RECOMMEND

  Our experience with South Sea Cruises for a trip to Malamala Beach Club was extremely disappointing. On the day of our booking, we encountered very bad weather with heavy rain, which is common in Fiji during monsoonal seasons. Traveling to an island with our 19-month-old baby under these circumstances didn’t make sense, particularly given the lack of shelter, which would have left us exposed outside the Club restaurant in the rain. We waited as long as we could, hoping for a change in the weather, but it only got worse. The rain was heavy, despite their website stating the tour runs only in good weather. When we attempted to cancel due to the conditions, South Sea Cruises refused a refund, citing their terms and conditions. This situation left us disheartened and upset. We had invested a lot into our Fiji trip, and this experience overshadowed what should have been a joyful time. With two young children, proceeding didn't seem appropriate, but the company seemed unsympathetic to our predicament. If we were adults traveling alone, we might have gone ahead, but the well-being of our kids was more important. Overall, this experience made us feel like just a number, despite Fiji's reputation for being family-friendly. I regret choosing South Sea Cruises and would advise others to avoid them. Their lack of understanding and flexibility was quite disappointing, and we will not be coming back.

• Greg_M

  Mana (survivor) island

  I had a wonderful time at Mana Island with very few other visitors since it was the end of the season. The buffet was decent, around three stars, but there were plenty of activities available, including scuba diving, snorkeling, bars, and fantastic pools.

Reviews are paraphrased traveller feedback sourced from Viator. Original ratings and sentiment preserved.