The 2024 yachting industry survey that was conducted at Port Denarau Marina reveals strong and sustained growth in Fiji’s yachting sector.
In 2024, Fiji welcomed 831 visiting yachts, marking a 4% year-on-year increase. These vessels brought 7,223 individuals, including owners, crew, and guests, who collectively contributed FJD $52.75 million in direct spending. Expenditures included fuel, maintenance, dockage, food provisioning, dining, cultural visits, and tourism activities. This figure also includes taxes and yacht charter fees.
The sector’s average spending per visitor reached FJD $7,302, while yachts under 24 meters spent approximately FJD $37,174, and superyachts over 24 meters averaged a significant FJD $240,000 per vessel.
Reflecting on the data, Cynthia Rasch, CEO of Port Denarau Marina, stated: “The latest yachting industry survey confirms what we’ve seen on the ground – a thriving and rapidly growing sector. With a significant 23.3% increase in the industry’s overall contribution and a 300% surge in charter weeks compared to 2023, the results speak for themselves. Our targeted marketing, in close partnership with Tourism Fiji, has played a pivotal role in this success. Ongoing infrastructure upgrades at Port Denarau Marina are expected to further support this growth”
Echoing the sentiment, Tourism Fiji Acting COO, Vimlesh Magan noted: “Fiji’s yachting appeal lies not just in our stunning seascapes, but in the unique cultural encounters and warm local hospitality that set us apart. The growth we’re seeing is a direct result of strategic collaboration, and we’re excited to continue showcasing Fiji as the ultimate cruising destination in the South Pacific.”
Government revenue from the sector in 2024 stood at FJD $11.56 million, underlining yachting’s growing importance as a contributor to Fiji’s fiscal health.
Yachts stayed in Fiji for an average of 219 days, with superyachts averaging 56 days. Visitors consistently praised Fiji’s natural beauty, warm hospitality, and world-class cruising experiences.
Fiji Yachting Snapshot 2024
Popular cruising areas included the Yasawa and Mamanuca Islands, Taveuni, Savusavu, and Kadavu, while favorite activities among visitors ranged from diving in Viani Bay and manta ray encounters in the Yasawa Islands to cultural village visits and exploration of the Lau Group.
The report also calls for targeted improvements in reef marking, customs procedures, and continued infrastructure development to support sustainable growth.
With continued public-private collaboration, strategic investments, and a focus on sustainable development, Fiji is well-positioned to cement its place as a leading destination on the global yachting map, attracting even more high-value visitors in the years to come.
