Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
UNDERWATER FIJI
A huge part of Fiji's appeal lies below the surface of the waves. Don a mask and snorkel
and you will find
coral reefs
shimmering with colourful fish, sea fans dancing in the cur-
rent and manta rays and reef sharks cruising the lagoons. Throw in crystal-clear water and
temperatures that rarely fall below 25°C and you have one of the world's greatest snor-
kelling and diving destinations.
Fiji's ten thousand square kilometres of coral reef twist and turn around every island, and
include the world's third longest barrier reef - the 200km-long Great Sea Reef found off
the north coast of Vanua Levu. These amazing structures provide habitats for thousands of
species of fish, plants and animals and boast an astonishing biodiversity that's comparable
to that found in rainforests.
The three most common types of reef found in Fiji are
fringing reefs
, which are attached
to an island and offer snorkelling direct from the shore;
patch reefs
, individual coral reefs
found within a lagoon and usually attracting great numbers of reef fish; and
barrier reefs
,
which are separated from the shore by a deep channel and feature steep drop-offs and
strong currents. There's information on Fiji's best reefs, plus
snorkelling and diving
advice.
VILLAGE CHILDREN, VITI LEVU
