Over the weekend the Fijian Prime Minister announced the opening of borders to tourist and yachts under strict cnditions.
In summary, yachts must apply and be approved before embarking toward Fiji, approval is not automatic and each application will be specifically assessed. Applications must be through an agent, yachts must have insurance and meet other normal border, visa and biosecurity requirements. The announcement of this “Blue Lane” for yachts and superyachts requires a COVID test at the port of embarkation, there is then a 14 day quarantine period with time at sea counted, yacht crews may undertake quarantine aboard. A health check will be required, and a corona virus test may been undertaken with costs to be met by yachts. There are many other requirements, such as downloading a contact tracing App.
At this time the only port of entry will be Denarau Marina.
Denarau Marina have been working hard on yacht entry since March and are liasing closely with the agencies involved to develop policies and procedures for both yachts and superyachts. Border agencies have to develop new assessment protocols and interagency coordination beyond their normal processes. These are not yet in place. Officials appear to favour a slow introduction, testing processes.
There is not yet an application process and agents do not have the protocols necessary. Through Denarau Marina’s efforts this is being resolved with agencies as a priority.
A full update with the rules and requirements, application forms, agent contacts and likely fees will be provided soonest.
In summary, Fiji is opening, but isnt open yet! The traditional welcome of Bula is coming and yachts can say the traditional thank you Vinaka Vakalevu soon.