Nananu-I-Ra; the name itself conjures up spectacular images of somewhere warm and tropical, but once you discover that the English translation of the Fijian name is ‘Daydream of the West’ it takes it to a whole other level. Breath-taking white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, listening to the soft lapping of the ocean while you sip at your cold beer… This doesn’t have to be a mere daydream. This is where you will find us for a week in August! (Click here for details)
Nananu-I-Ra is situated 3km off the north coast of the main Island, Viti Levu, and accounts for a tiny 3.5 square kilometres of land mass. In other words, 3.5 km² of paradise! Even better than the sandy haven, is the surrounding underwater world. Being ideally located in the Bligh Waters means that Nananu-I-Ra provides prime access to a multitude of amazing dive sites. Not only this, but it takes a mere hour by boat to travel to the Vatu-I-Ra Channel where a fluctuating current flushes and nourishes the magnificent 300+ species of coral that form the reef. A plethora of marine life thrives in the area; beautiful tropical fish, both loggerhead and green turtles, reef sharks, and you may well come across a few of the endangered humphead wrasse, or the majestic bumphead parrot fish.
Bumphead parrot fish
If you are looking to mix it up a little, then you will not be disappointed. At the centre of the Vatu-I-Ra Channel you will find the dive site E6, a site that is consistently rated to be one of the best in Fiji. Thanks to the seamount that rises from the deep almost to the surface, you stand a good chance of experiencing an encounter with many pelagics, such as large rays and hammerhead sharks! The area is also home to many manta rays, reef sharks, lemon sharks, bull sharks and even the odd tiger shark.
White tip reef shark
You may think that names such as ‘Dream Maker’ and ‘Breath Taker’ are exaggerations! Well just wait until you get under the waves and see for yourself! Just don’t forget your camera – you will want to take memories of this underwater utopia home with you.
Colour everywhere!
As well as being renowned for its phenomenal offshore reefs, Nananu-I-Ra is also known for its great windsurfing and kitesurfing opportunities. Explore the shores on foot or by kayak. Snorkelling is easily accessible from the beaches, and you will find plenty of idyllic spots to kick back and relax.
If you want to join us there, call us on (03) 379 5804, email us at sales@diveskiworld.co.nz, or visit us at 103 Durham Street South, Sydenham, Christchurch!