THE first three accommodation villas on Nawi Island in Savusavu will be ready next month as part of a multi-million dollar investment by its American owners to kick start phase three of a project to turn the once desolate and uninhabited islet into a world-class resort and an equally world class marina.
In a statement, the company said it recently committed “significant capital” in expanding its offerings in the Nawi Group, with “an investment of $9 million earmarked for the construction of accommodation bures on the marina’s central island, Korovesa, as well as resort villas on the Nawi Island Resort across from the marina — “offering stunning panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding coastline”.
“This will include luxury villas and traditional-style bures,” the company stated.
“This is in response to the increasing number of tourists discovering the charm and beauty of Savusavu.
“With tourism steadily rising, especially among yacht owners and ocean enthusiasts, the added investment is designed to enhance the island’s capacity to accommodate both short- and long-term visitors.”
The island has turned into a hot spot for yachties and locals alike, according to Korovesa general manager Jitendra Prasad.
Last year alone, more than 300 yachts went through the marina facility while on average, some 700 to 800 locals visit the island every week to sightsee.
“This year, we’re expecting similar numbers, even more as more and more yachts are visiting the Lau Group. They find it easier to go through Savusavu and get supplies before going to Lau rather than going all the way to Denarau then coming down again.”
While Nawi has a fully integrated marina for yachts, there is no accommodation facility as yet.
“Phase one was the marina and phase two was the boatyard,” Mr Prasad told this newspaper.
“Those two projects have been completed, so we’re now starting phase three, which includes accommodation and the main resort.
“Construction has already started on the accommodation bures. We’ll have a total of 13. Three are about to finish — they will be completed next month. Another five will be completed in November and another five by around May next year.”
Financing talks surrounding the main resort, touted by Nawi’s investors as a “world-class luxury resort”, are still ongoing so is not part of the $9m capital works of phase three, according to Mr Prasad.
But its beach is included in that expense and its construction is also taking place.
“The resort beach should be ready by around August,” Mr Prasad said.
In its statement, the company said reservations will commence effective July 2025 for what is to be the “Traditional-style bures” on Korovesa.
“The Korovesa bures will provide a tranquil, culturally-inspired stay right in the heart of the marina, ideal for guests seeking a peaceful retreat.
“Meanwhile, the resort villas will include four single villas, each with its own plunge pool, and one larger villa featuring twin rooms and shared plunge pool — perfect for families or groups.
“The bures will rest above the new beachfront spanning the northern side of Nawi island.
“This expansion addresses a consistent stream of enquiries we’ve received from both yacht guests and land-based visitors.
“Many have expressed interest in accommodations that allow them to remain close to the marina while enjoying the comforts of dry land.
“The new villas are also ideal for families visiting yacht-based relatives, or tourists looking to explore Savusavu while enjoying the scenic background,” the company said in its statement.
“We continue to expand our offerings and amenities, with a commitment not only to world-class facilities but also to environmentally conscious operations and construction,” Mr Prasad said.
“Our upcoming resort houses, apartments, Bula-style villas, spa facilities, and white sand beaches will continue to impress and provide a premium experience for both visitors and locals alike.”
It’s a development that the company has aligned with its “long-term vision of making Nawi Island Marina a world-class destination — not only a safe haven for yachts but also a vibrant hub for tourism, relaxation and Fijian hospitality.”
“As Nawi grows so will prosperity in all of Savusavu and the northern territory, Nawi is proud to contribute to Savusavu’s evolution while supporting local economic opportunities through job creation, new small businesses incubating and tourism-driven activity,” the company stated.
Phase four will be the subdivision and marketing of residential lots on Nawi Island.
