PORT Denarau is upgrading its facilities to accommodate mega yachts with a huge $6million investment.
With the new upgrade, seven new berthing stations have been added to the Port including a mega yacht berth designed to accommodate vessels up to 115 meters — the first of its kind in the South Pacific.
While commissioning the new development, Tourism Minister Viliame Gavoka said the marina had a total of 62 berths including 27 dedicated superyachts over 24 metres.
“This places Fiji in a leadership position in maritime tourism across the Pacific,” Mr Gavoka said.
“The expansion includes a 203-metre jetty extension and dredging within the marina basin for safe navigation.
“At the same time, the Coalition Government is working closely with landowners and qoliqoli owners to progress dredging of the marina channel.
“This partnership is vital to ensuring safe access for vessels and shared benefits for our communities.”
Mr Gavoka also recognised the growing superyacht industry’s impact on Fiji’s tourism revenues.
“Each vessel that enters our waters contributes directly to jobs, income and opportunities for our people.
“The benefits flow to hospitality, retail, transport and marine services.
“They support local suppliers and strengthen Fiji’s broader economy.”
He said the Port Denarau expansion consolidated Fiji’s standing as the leading superyacht hub in the South Pacific.
“It ensures that our communities see lasting benefits from this important sector.”
According to Tourism Fiji, in 2024, Fiji welcomed 831 visiting yachts marking a four per cent year-on-year increase.
“These vessels brought 7223 individuals, including owners, crew and guests, who collectively contributed $52.75m in direct spending,” a Tourism Fiji statement said.
“Expenditures included fuel, maintenance, dockage, food provisioning, dining, cultural visits and tourism activities.
This figure also includes taxes and yacht charter fees.
“The sector’s average spending per visitor reached $7302, while yachts under 24 metres spent approximately $37,174, and superyachts over 24 metres averaged a $240,000 per vessel.”
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Note: This article was first published under the headline: Port Denarau invests $6m, eyes superyacht hub in Page14 of the print version of The Fiji Times dated Tuesday September 23, 2025
