Basics - Rough Guide to Fiji - page 54

RESPECTING THE REEF
Lying at the crossroads of the Pacific, Fiji's reefs are recognized as a globally important
area of biodiversity and make up four percent of the world's total area of coral reefs. As
well as attracting thousands of tourists, they protect the islands from hurricanes and provide
an income for fishermen. Despite their often vast size, coral reefs are fragile and complex
ecosystems that require care and respect from snorkellers and scuba-divers. It's imperative
you do not touch the reef, or try to stand or tread water close to coral heads. Even a brief
contact is likely to destroy the delicate coral polyps which can take years to grow back.
Brushing against the reef is also likely to result in cuts or grazes which can take weeks to
heal.
Although they make tempting souvenirs, shells should not be removed from the reef as
they play a vital role in providing homes for invertebrates. Avoid buying shells from the
village markets, especially tritons, or trumpet shells, the only natural predators of the coral-
destroying crown of thorns starfish.
For more information, see the section on reef wildlife .
Windsurfing and kite surfing
The best place for windsurfing is from Safari Lodge , facing the trade winds on the exposed
east beach of Nananu-i-Ra island off north Viti Levu; you can take week-long courses here
or rent equipment by the hour. Other good locations include Matamanoa Island where winds
can sometimes be stiff, or Plantation Island which features a sandy-bottomed shallow lagoon
ideal for beginners, both in the Mamanucas. The optimum time for windsurfing is when the
trade winds are blowing strongest between June and September.
Kite surfing is also offered at Safari Lodge . If you have your own equipment the flat lagoon
between Malolo and Malolo Lailai in the Mamanucas is another good kitesurfing spot; the
winds funnelled through the channel create ideal conditions.
Sailing
Although Fiji is a paradise of stunning islands and bays, treacherous reefs make sailing a
challenging experience. Unless you have your own yacht, it's unlikely you'll find anyone
prepared to offer boats for hire, with the few sailing charters operating from the marinas be-
low on a skipper and crew basis only. The country's six marinas with full facilities are Port
Denarau, Vuda Marina and the Royal Suva Yacht Club, all on Viti Levu; Musket Cove in the
Mamanucas; Levuka on Ovalau; and Savusavu on Vanua Levu.
Yachties arrive in Fiji between May and August, usually sailing with the trade winds from
California via Tonga and heading onwards to Australia or New Zealand, via Vanuatu or New