Fiona Harper
First look at Blue Lagoon Cruises newest ship
South Sea Cruises Group launches new ship - Yasawa Princess II - as an addition to MV Fiji Princess to cruise Fiji and the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands
Yasawa Princess II is the latest addition to Blue Lagoon Cruises’ fleet, adding to MV Fiji Princess to cruise Fiji and the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands in Fiji. If you’re imagining tropical vibes, palm trees, islands and charming Fijian hospitality, you’ll fit right in aboard.
Cruise Fiji on Yasawa Princess II departing from April 2026 through the Fijian islands. The ship is an exciting addition to South Sea Cruises which has been operating tours in Fiji for more than 75 years and Yasawa Princess II adds a new level of refinement to small ship cruising in Fiji. Think intimate island escapades, postcard-perfect backdrops, and a vessel designed for exploring the Fijian islands.
A warm Fijian welcome awaits you onboard
Arriving on Yasawa Princess II feels a little like stepping into a party where everyone’s already your friend. Fijian smiles are infectious and it’s hard not to start wiggling my hips as the crew erupt into song. Guitars strum. Ukuleles hum. The crew welcome guests with wide smiles and soulful songs sung with gusto. It’s pure joy wrapped in Fijian warmth.
In welcoming guests aboard for a first look at this exciting new vessel to cruise Fiji, Chief Executive Officer Brad Rutherford said, “We’re very proud to continue the legacy of being Fiji’s oldest tourism operator. Yasawa Princess II will develop into an iconic vessel, delivering authentic small-ship cruising in Fiji while raising the bar for guest comfort and sustainability.”
“This project has been about 18 months in the works. We purchased the ship in Australia where she underwent a major refit before arriving in Fiji one month ago. The team has worked really hard to get the boat ready for our first guests in April.”
Elegant interiors provide a backdrop as you cruise Fiji
Stepping onboard, the first thing I notice is the ship’s understated elegance. The decor is modern with neutral tones complemented by splashes of colour from Fijian-inspired artwork. Think landscape photography and vibrant prints inspired by the beautiful Fijian islands and their palm-draped landscapes.
At 42m long, Yasawa Princess II is all about keeping things personal, with just 22 ensuite cabins to accommodate a maximum of 44 guests.
The cabins are generously bathed in natural light, thanks to wide windows that frame the surrounding seascapes. Inside, you’ll find special touches and inclusions like a double or twin bed, compact ensuite with a glass-enclosed shower, small fridge, a safe, and even fluffy bathrobes. Guests are also spoilt with thoughtful touches like a beach bag, sarong and refillable water bottles to make use of the filtered water station.
Two cabins come with a central interconnecting door, making a good choice for families of four for select voyages. The ship is adult’s-only with the exception of a handful of voyages during school holidays when children over 4 years are permitted.
NOTE: avoid booking during school holidays if you want to cruise Fiji on an adults only voyage.
The top sun deck is a multi-purpose space which can be used as a social sitting area with 360 degree views by day, or for intimate dining under the stars at night. The main deck comprise the social hub of the vessel with a multi-purpose dining area with indoor and outdoor seating and a bar. The Bridge has wall-to-wall glass so guests get to enjoy the very same view the Captain does.
Dining options are influenced by fresh, local ingredients that reflect the tropical climate – think plenty of fresh seafood and seasonal fruits and vegetables.
Massages and treatments are available in the onboard spa. A highlight of voyages are visiting Blue Lagoon’s private beach on Nanuya Lailai in the Yasawa Islands. Think powdery white sand, swaying palm trees, and crystal clear ocean water you almost don’t need a mask when snorkelling. We’re kidding – you’ll definitely need a mask and snorkel to really enjoy Fiji’s colourful marine life.
Blue Lagoon’s commitment to sustainability while cruising Fiji
Yasawa Princess II wears her eco-credentials proudly, with Blue Lagoon Cruises making sustainability a priority. The ship features improved fuel efficiency, enhanced waste management systems, and local partnerships that support reef protection and Fijian communities which the ship visits.
If you’re looking for exclusive voyages with 40 or so of your besties, the ship is available for private charters.
Yasawa Princess II departs from Port Denarau, just 20 minutes drive from Fiji International Airport.
