The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation has initiated a new Tourism Hydrographic Taskforce aimed at boosting Fiji’s nautical tourism sector by enhancing maritime safety and conducting strategic seabed mapping. This Taskforce will function under the National Hydrographic Committee within Fiji Hydrographic Services and will oversee priority seabed surveys in critical tourism regions.
The initiative seeks to not only improve navigational safety but also to create new economic opportunities for coastal and island communities. This announcement follows the successful Yasawa-i-rara Island hydrographic project, which reestablished cruise ship access to the area after a gap of 16 years and has delivered substantial economic benefits to local residents.
Salaseini Daunabuna, the Permanent Secretary for Tourism and Civil Aviation, stated that this initiative underscores the government’s dedication to sustainable tourism development. The Taskforce encompasses representatives from the government, industry, and development partners.
During its inaugural meeting, members identified the Fulaga Hydrographic Survey as the Taskforce’s first significant project. This two-month survey, scheduled to commence next month, aims to produce official nautical charts to facilitate safe expedition cruising in the region.
The initiative is being implemented through a collaboration involving the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation, the Australian Government-funded Market Development Facility, and the Fiji Hydrographic Service under the Republic of Fiji Navy. The Taskforce is currently engaging with industry stakeholders to define its future survey program, with a review meeting slated for next month. This collaborative effort demonstrates a forward-looking approach to enhancing Fiji’s tourism potential while prioritizing safety and sustainability.
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