Phoenix Islands — Kiribati
An expedition to the Phoenix Islands — an archipelago of 8 atolls and 2 submerged reefs in the central Pacific Ocean, northeast of Fiji. The coastal waters are rich in marine life: over 120 coral species and 520 reef fish species. Most islands are uninhabited and hold marine reserve status.
Departure from Lautoka (Fiji) or Apia (Samoa). The route passes through the marine reserves of Birnie, McKean, and Rawaki islands. Dolphins, sea turtles, tuna, and hammerhead sharks inhabit the archipelago’s waters. Complete remoteness from civilization and protected area status make every dive exceptional.
What You'll See
Conditions
Season
March–November
Visibility
20–40 meters
Water Temperature
27–30°C
Level
Advanced Open Water
Duration
10–14 nights
Useful Information
Best Season
May to October is the dry season, with the clearest water and the calmest sea. November to April is warmer and greener but brings rain and cyclones; the Yasawa mantas are around from May to October
Visa
Russian citizens need no visa: a visitor permit for up to four months is issued on arrival. A return ticket and a passport valid for six months are required. Check the transit visas of your connection — the route almost always runs through Australia, New Zealand, South Korea or the USA.
How to Get There
There are no direct flights from Russia. Fly to Nadi (NAN) via Seoul, Hong Kong, Singapore, Sydney or Auckland; from Moscow the journey takes 25–35 hours. From there Fiji Link domestic flights reach Taveuni (TVU) or Savusavu (SVU) in about an hour, or a boat transfer runs to the Coral Coast resorts and the Yasawa Islands.
Climate
Tropical maritime, air 24–31 °C year-round, wet season November to April
Currency
Fijian dollar (FJD)
Time Zone
UTC+12
