Current Fijian Political Cruising Information

Created by doina. Last modified on 2007-05-05 08:37:27
Countries: Fiji

On 5 December 2006, Commodore Frank Bainimarama, of the RFMF (Republic of Fiji Military Forces), seized control of the government which he relinquished in 2000.

What does this mean for the cruising yacht planning to visit Fiji?

Very little!

All of the rules, policies and procedures governing foreign "tourist" vessels have remained in place with no change.

Personally, I would avoid Suva City, but, as I dislike cities immensely, I would steer clear at any rate! Fiji has literally hundreds of beautiful islands, bays, coves and harbours, some of which go for years without seeing a foreign vessel, with wonderful people to see and meet.

The sole cautions I would give is those scoff-laws who have no respect for the country that they are a guest of. This applies specifically to not declaring weapons and ammunition to customs at time of entry (a very common law, world-wide). At this time, neither customs nor the military are boarding and searching yachts. If, similar to a Canadian yacht, you chose not to declare your handgun and 282 rounds of ammunition and get caught (he is now imprisioned), this may change.

In addition, possession and sale of narcotics, specifically marijuana, is illegal and can carry very severe consequences.

Please come and visit us. In my time, I have yet to find a place that combines the unique beauty of our islands with the wonderful attitude of the Fijian people.

My credentials are that I have been cruising and working in the islands of the Tropical South Pacific for the past 21 years. Currently, I am, and have been for the past 4 years, the Managing Director of Bebi Electronics www.bebi-electronics.com with an office in Savusavu and manufacturing facilities in Fawn Harbor, Vanua Levu, Fiji Islands. We "commute" based on business needs between the two locations on our 1975 Downeaster 38, "Shangri-La".

Michael Homsany