FIJI • AUGUST 21-28, 2027

Bula! Bula!

Good ol’ Fiji. While many a person around the globe associate this tiny Pacific Island nation with their bottled water (yes, the trendy beverage brand is sourced and produced there), folks within the dive industry appreciate the tropical destination for something else. Something better: lush coral reefs featuring vibrant soft corals and a myriad of reef-dwelling fish. In fact, Fiji is considered the “soft coral capital of the world.” Soft coral = color. How much color? Imagine Alice in Wonderland meets Jacques Cousteau. Besides premium dives saturated in chroma like a bag of Skittles, guests can enjoy picturesque waterfalls, traditional villages, and a remote resort (accessed by 30-minute drive on unpaved roads), without the hordes of tourists often encountered in other prime vacation spots. Remember, Seasick doesn’t appreciate large crowds and over-populated mega resorts.

Despite its aquatic fame, Fiji has a laid-back style and vibe. Maybe it’s all the kava that the locals drink. Maybe it’s that everyone saves their energy for the evening fire walking and dancing. Or maybe it’s simply that life is lived by the needle of a compass, not by the hands of a clock.

Seasick’s package at-a-glance: Taveuni Island, total resort buyout (combo of 16 bures + vales) so no “randoms” running around and disturbing the peace, daily boat dives, unlimited house reef dives, gourmet breakfast, lunch, and dinner included, a couple land tours, and some cultural activities.

Of course, staying home and scrolling through social media or worrying about global affairs is always an option.

FIJI

During the colonial times Fiji was referred to as the "Cannibal Isles" (not the best marketing strategy to attract tourists). Today the country is renowned for its overwater bungalows, lush forests butted against white sandy beaches, deep azul waters, high plunging waterfalls, and world-class scuba diving. The archipelago encompasses a vast expanse of the South Pacific Ocean and is made up of 300+ islands and 500+ islets scattered over 1,100,000 sq mi (almost as big as India). Much of the country’s surrounding waters are classified as Fiji’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Ironically, the land area of Fiji is only about 11,000 sq mi (same size as Hawaii). Located 1300 miles North of Auckland, New Zealand, these islands are largely the product of volcanic action. Vanuatu, Tonga, and Samoa are the nearest neighbors.

Fiji can be characterized as two main islands with a bunch of smaller island clusters. Viti Levu is the largest island or ‘mainland’, while the second largest island, Vanua Levu, is situated to the north-east of Viti Levu and is roughly half the size. A giant mountain chain (dormant volcanos) slices through the two large islands. The eastern sides of the main islands are generally covered in thick jungle while dry forest and grassland dominate the western sides. The coasts feature palm-fringed white sandy beaches, coral reefs, and mangrove-lined rivers.

Sure, visitors can spend their days relaxing by the pool or getting spa treatments but for those who want to discover and explore, Fiji won’t disappoint. Scuba dive, snorkel, hike, waterfall trek, bike, surf, kitesurf, foil (Google it), jet ski, or quad bike. Fiji is also renowned for its cultural-based activities and Fijian customs. For example, Lovo is a traditional meal made on white-hot stones in an underground covered pit while the “infamous” Kava ceremony (imagine muddy brown bitter water from a root plant shared amongst any willing participants) is a nightly ritual.

 By sea or by land, by day or by night, Fiji is amazing.

Continent: Oceania • Capital: Suva • Total Islands: 330 • Primary Islands: Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Taveuni • Area: 7,100 sq mi • Highest Elevation: 4,344' (Mount Tomanivi) • Time: UTC+12 • Electricity: 240V • Population: 951,000 (2024) • Industries: Tourism + Agriculture • Currency: Fijian Dollar (FJD) • Official Languages: Fijian, English, Fijian Hindi • Religion: Christian (64%) + Hinduism (28%) • Driving Side: Left

WEATHER AND CLIMATE

Taveuni has a sub-tropical climate with two seasons, wet and dry. Wet season is November - April, with temperatures ranging from 72-91°F. Dry season is May - October, with temperatures ranging from 66-84°F. Seasick chose late August since it is the absolute peak season for weather (and diving) — flattest seas, less rain + humidity, “cooler”, and best water visibility. Throughout the country rainfall is highly variable and influenced by topography. The eastern sides of the main islands receive up to 10' of rain annually (also varies by elevation) and are generally wetter. The western sides are sheltered from the trade winds and tend to be drier. Speaking of trade winds, this cooling breeze blows from the east-southeast most of the year, putting Seasick’s chosen resort in a prime location. August water temperature: 76-80°F (a wee bit chilly) but normally cooler = better visibility.

August Taveuni Averages - High: 80°F • Low: 72°F • Sea Water: 79°F • Daylight Hours: 11.5 • Sunshine Hours: 8 • Rainy Days: 4 • Precipitation Totals: 3.2 in

PARADISE TAVEUNI RESORT

Paradise Taveuni Resort is located on Fiji’s third largest island: Taveuni. The island features all of Fiji’s iconic attractions: rainforests, waterfalls, and world-class diving. The resort boasts an ideal location and is the sole public accommodation on the southern side of the island. The five-acre oceanfront property features 180° unobstructed views of the Somosomo Strait. Paradise Taveuni is not a mega resort. No elevators, no vast lobbies, no food courts. Paradise Taveuni Resort was born and opened in 2008. In 2016, a Category 5 tropical cyclone named Winston (not associated with the movie Castaway) destroyed the resort and the entire Taveuni Island. Today, the property includes beach front air-conditioned bures, a new dive shop, a restaurant producing gourmet-level cuisine, and a spa. With that said, the Paradise Taveuni’s strongest asset is their enthusiastic and caring Fijian staff.

Gone are the days of a beach bum hostel. Replaced with a place that truly lives up to its name.

Built: 2008 • Renovated: 2019 • Rooms: 16 (Bures + Vales) • Pool: Outdoor • Beach: Sorta • Dock: Yes • Spa: Yes • Gym: No • Meals: 3 Daily Included • Bar: Yes • Laundry: Yes ($10/bag) • WiFi: Included

ACCOMMODATIONS

OCEANFRONT VALE: 1 KING BED (+1 TWIN BED)
The 6 vales feature a private patio, large bedroom, indoor bathroom, and outdoor lava-rock shower.

OCEANVIEW BURE: 1 KING BED (+2 TWIN BED)
The 2 bures feature a private patio, large bedroom, separate lounge room, indoor bathroom, and outdoor lava-rock shower.

OCEANVIEW FAMILY BURE: 1 KING BED AND 2 TWIN BED
The 3 bures feature a private patio, two large bedrooms, separate lounge room, one indoor bathroom, and one outdoor lava-rock shower.

OCEANFRONT BURE: 1 KING BED (+2 TWIN BED)
The 2 bures feature a private patio, large bedroom, separate lounge room, indoor bathroom, and outdoor lava-rock shower.

LUXURY OCEANFRONT BURE: 1 KING BED (+2 TWIN BED)
The 3 premium bures feature a private patio, large bedroom, separate lounge room, indoor bathroom, and outdoor lava-rock shower + tub.

DIVING

Home to two of the largest barrier coral reefs in the southern hemisphere – the Great Sea Reef and the Great Astrolabe Reef, Fiji offers the 6th largest concentration of reef in the world. That’s 3.5% of the world’s reef system covering 3,900 sq mi. The coral reefs and thriving marine ecosystems are why Fiji is recognized as the “Soft Coral Capital of the World”. Fiji has 1,200+ species of fish, 30+ species of sharks, 15+ species of cetaceans, and a plethora of crazy macro critters (fellas like crabs, shrimps, eels, frogfish, and nudis). There is varied topography such as walls, drop-offs, swim-throughs, caverns, canyons, seamounts and even caves (boo). This ain’t no flat sandy bottom diving with an occasional dab of coral. Simply put, Fiji is a top 10 global dive destination. Dives conditions in and around Taveuni vary: no current + flat seas to heavy current + rough seas.

Seasick Package: 5 days x 2 morning boat dives + unlimited Paradise Taveuni’s house reef shore dives (7:00am - 5:00pm). Special bonus: no dive guide required on shore dives!

Depth 15'-130' • Visibility: 20'-100' • Currents: Light - Strong • Skill Level: Beginner - Advanced • Water Temp: 79°F • Dive Sites: 40+

RAINBOW REEF

Rainbow Reef is only a 30-minute boat ride from Paradise Taveuni (just enough time to spy pilot whales and mantas swimming in the channel). With over 20 different dive sites, Rainbow Reef offers a multitude of underwater experiences and is regarded as one of the best coral reefs in the world. Don’t believe the hype? Google it. This reef is situated in the Somosomo Strait, a relatively narrow channel (only 6 miles wide) between Vanua Levu and Taveuni Island. At both ends of the channel nutrient rich waters are brought to the surface and pass over the reefs providing a constant food supply. This means everything is covered in coral (300+ types of hard coral and 80+ types of soft coral). Dives are filled with color. All the colors of the rainbow (hence the name).

The only exception is the Great White Wall which is a dive site blanketed with white soft corals (Dendronephthya). Don’t fret, the GWW also has colorful reef tops, and two swim throughs filled with soft corals. Important: the GWW is known for its strong currents and is not always accessible. Weather and water conditions dictate dives. Peak time is during the mid-lunar cycle (avoiding new or full moons) and during a slack low tide (that’s some complicated rocket-science stuff right there). Furthermore, additional factors must be present for the white soft corals to “bloom”. Fortunately, Seasick has selected dates that coincide with the preferred moon phase which will increase the likelihood guests can dive (and enjoy) this world-famous site.

DIVE FACILITIES

Paradise Taveuni designed and constructed their “Paradise Dive Center” (dive shop, camera room, classroom, equipment room, and boats) to offer ample space for everyone. But it’s not only about having an abundance of space to ensure divers can maximize their underwater opportunities and enjoy their pleasure dives. A “real” dive resort must offer so much more. For example, at Paradise Taveuni, the equipment room is highly secure and well-ventilated to help keep gear safe and dry. More importantly, Paradise Taveuni’s staff will care for each diver’s equipment and will prepare everything prior to the dive, whether it’s a shore dive at the house reef or a dive from the boat. Speaking of staff, dive briefings are conducted prior to every dive to maximize safety and diver enjoyment.

Camera room: open 7:00am - 7:00pm + after hours opened on request. 240V power outlets

Guide to Diver Ratio: 1:6 max • Nitrox (Boat): included • Nitrox (Shore): $10 each • Tanks: aluminum • Valves: yoke (DIN adaptors available) • Big Tanks (100cf/15L): $10 each • Rental Brand: Scuba Pro • Rental Suits: 3mm + 5mm, Full Body + Short • Dives Daily: up to 5 • Night Dive: $35 each • Shore Dive: unlimited included • Dive Staff: PADI Divemasters (3) + Instructors (3) • Private Guide: $50 per day

DIVE BOATS

Paradise Taveuni has two custom-built dive boats. Taveuni Explorer is a 45' aluminum hull vessel featuring twin Mercury 350 bhp outboard motors, a head (bathroom), galley (kitchenette), and freshwater shower. She accommodates 24 divers (Seasick will reduce) + crew. The Lady Paradise is a 33' aluminum hull vessel featuring twin Yamaha 70 bhp outboard motors and can accommodate 12 divers + crew.

WATERFALL TREK + ISLAND TOUR

REQUIREMENTS: Must be able to endure an 8-hour day of fun and exploration
COST: $150 (5 guest minimum). Includes guide, land transfer, park fees, picnic lunch, water, refreshments, and towels. Payable to Paradise Taveuni Resort

Breakfast at Paradise Taveuni. Depart the resort at 8:00am. 90-minute scenic coastal drive to the Bouma Waterfalls located at the opposite side of the island. The first fall is accessed via a 10-minute walk (easy). The second and third falls can be accessed via hiking trail (strenuous, no handrails, slippery). All guests can swim the primary pool and jump off the falls with the guide. While returning to the resort stop at the island’s main shopping area of Naqara (closed Sundays). Enjoy the 180th Meridian (take a photo while in 2 different days). Visit the Meridian Store to buy souvenirs, snacks, or ice cream. Discover the Holy Cross Church and Wairiki Catholic Mission (built in 1907). And wrap things up with the natural rock Waitavala Waterslide.

WHAT TO BRING: Swimsuit and water shoes/dive booties/strap back sandals are recommended for the falls. Comfortable clothing, tennis shoes, hat, and sunglasses. Camera and/or phone. Cash (Fijian Dollars) for drinks, souvenirs and tips. Sunscreen and bug repellent.

SAMPLE ITINERARY

FLIGHTS + TRANSIT HOTELS

SAMPLE ITINERARY AS OF APRIL 15, 2025

Fiji Airways’ Baggage Policies
• Fiji Airways may use the services of partner airlines for some “FJ” flight numbers, particularly for travel (i) within the USA and (ii) between LAX and Canada.
• For passengers traveling to/from FJ international and connecting to/from Fiji Link domestic flights, the following rule will apply:       
¹ If FJ international and FJ domestic sectors are ticketed on the same ticket (FJ/260 paper), FJ’s international baggage allowance will apply.        
² If FJ international and FJ domestic are ticketed separately, baggage allowance shown on each ticket will apply.
• A pax is allowed to carry 2 pieces up to a total of 30kg if one of the pieces is a sports equipment and the second piece is normal checked baggage. Any piece exceeding the total dimensions will be charged the oversized/bulky item fee.
• Oneworld frequent flyer members may be able to bring more checked luggage when flying with Fiji Airways, depending on the membership tier. 

Fiji Airways’ Checked Baggage Allowance for International Flights (travel to/from Vancouver, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Dallas)
• Lite (Economy): 0 checked bags
• Value (Economy): 1 checked bag up to 66lbs (30kg) each
• Comfort/Plus (Economy): 2 checked bags up to 66lbs (30kg) each
• Biz Value/Biz Plus (Business) 3 checked bags up to 66lbs (30kg) each

LOS ANGELES - TAVEUNI
DEPARTING: THURSDAY, AUGUST 19 • RETURNING: SATURDAY, AUGUST 28
ESTIMATED COST: $1,090

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

DEFINITIONS: “Company” is defined as Underwater Exposures, Inc. dba Seasick Productions, incorporated in terms of the laws of California, United States of America. "Company Affiliated Parties" is defined as the Company, its directors, members, partners, employees, agents, consultants, suppliers, and contractors. “Guest” is defined as any person or persons placing a booking (whether provisional or confirmed) with the Company and who contracts with the Company for any of the Services together with his/her spouse, dependents and companions. “Services” is defined as the provision of accommodation, transport, transfers, scuba diving and snorkeling activities, tours or any other activities or services provided by the Company and the procurement by the Company of the provision of accommodation, transport, transfers, scuba diving and snorkeling activities, tours or any other activities or services by any Third-Party Contractors.

GENERAL: Price based on double occupancy group rate. Single supplement, extensions, additional services, and all other items not listed in itinerary are not included. All prices subject to change without notice. A $1,000.00 deposit per person is required with each Guest reservation. Company reserves the right, without advance notice, to make changes or cancellations, in part or in whole, as circumstances dictate. Any deposit or payment made to Company or any representative of Company shows acceptance and acknowledgement of the terms and conditions as stated herein.

CHANGES TO RESERVATIONS: Any request by Guest to amend or change a booking once it has been confirmed, may be accommodated by Company subject to availability. If Company is able to assist, a reasonable administrative fee may be charged. Any such administrative fees shall be invoiced to the Guest and must be settled as per the standard terms applicable to the booking. If the invoice is not paid within such time, Company may construe such non-payment as an act of cancellation on the part of the Guest and the provisions of the cancellation clause shall apply. All reservations, confirmed bookings, and Company’s services are non-transferable.

CANCELLATIONS TO RESERVATIONS: Refund (less cancellation fee) may be issued if reservation is cancelled four months prior to departure date and if another Guest can fill the vacancy. All authorized refunds will be assessed a $1,000.00 cancellation fee. No refund or credit will be made for Services not utilized by Guest. No cancellations shall be accepted within 30 days of trip departure.

FORCE MAJEURE: “Force Majeure Event” is defined as any event which is beyond the control of the Company, including, but not limited to a national strike, act of war, armed conflict, insurrection, civil commotion, terrorism or the threat of terrorism; any act of God including but not limited to epidemic, pandemic, lightning, earthquake, flooding, fire, cyclone, hurricane, typhoon, tidal wave, storm, volcanic eruption and other unusual and extreme adverse weather or environmental conditions; any event which falls within any of these categories that is suffered by Third-Party Contractors of the Company, who are involved in the receipt or provision of the Services; and or any other cause or contingency beyond the control of the Company. The Company shall not be deemed to be in breach of any of its obligations to Guest due to any Force Majeure Event. If the Company is affected by a Force Majeure Event, it may in its sole and absolute discretion, amend or cancel any of the Services or the remainder thereof, or to make any alteration in route, accommodation, transportation or arrangement in the event of the Services or any part thereof being rendered impossible, illegal or inadvisable.

GUEST INSURANCE: If scuba diving is a Service used by Guest, Company requires Guest to possess a dive accident insurance policy prior to using any of Company’s Services. If scuba diving is not a Service used by Guest, Company requires Guest to possess an international accident and medical evacuation insurance policy prior to using any of Company’s Services. Information on dive accident insurance can be found at the Divers Alert Network’s website: www.diversalertnetwork.org. In addition, Company recommends trip insurance in the event a Guest must cancel the trip. Information on trip insurance can be found at the Divers Alert Network’s website: www.diversalertnetwork.org or the DiveAssure website: www.diveassure.com.

RESPONSIBILITY: Company acts only as agents for the Third-Party Contractors providing transportation, accommodations, diving and other Services. All tickets and vouchers issued constitute the sole contract between the Guest and Company. Company or its representatives shall not at any time be responsible in any way for loss, injury, or damage arising from any Force Majeure Event, act of government, theft, sickness, customs regulations, delay, cancellation error, or any cause beyond its control. Company or its representatives accepts no liability for the consequences of the personal activities of any Guest who is personally responsible for decisions concerning health, safety, fitness for diving and snorkeling, or any other circumstances beyond its control.