Being a boat master encompasses far more than just providing transportation; it is about serving the community with dedication and pride. Napolioni Raqitawa, known as Navo, is a villager from Nukutubu in Rewa who has devoted decades to ferrying families and passengers to and from the Nasilai landing at the end of Wainibokasi Road.
Coming from a large family of eight siblings, Navo faced challenges in his academic pursuits after attending Rewa Primary School. However, he was determined to succeed in life. With the support of the Rewa Water Taxi Association, Navo and his fellow boatmen obtained licenses to operate legally as water taxi operators, a pivotal moment that set him on his path.
Each morning, Navo rises at around 3:30 am to transport school children and workers to Nasali landing, ensuring they catch the first bus to Nausori and Suva, which departs at 5:30 am. After the morning rush, he makes additional trips to and from Nasali before returning home for breakfast and to care for his livestock and household chores. He then takes a brief rest before heading back to Nasali to continue his transportation service across the Rewa river, working until 9:30 pm when conditions are favorable.
When asked about his ability to navigate safely, even in adverse weather and darkness, Navo credits the training he received from the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF). The boat master training provided by MSAF equips operators with essential boat handling skills, crucial for safe passenger transport along the river.
Navo emphasizes the importance of safety, particularly during inclement weather. “Over the years, I have learned how to effectively maneuver my punt on the river like a professional,” he shared. He also pays close attention to balancing the load of passengers and goods, ensuring safe operation.
In addition to his transportation duties, Navo shows compassion by helping those who cannot afford the boat fare, allowing them to pay back later. “I trust everyone in the area will pay their fares,” he noted.
Navo has been a fixture on one of the tributaries of the Rewa river for more than twenty years. Despite feeling the weight of age, he remains committed to his work because it brings him joy to see his small boat transport hundreds of people daily.
“My role allows me to connect with the community, whether I am taking students to school or transporting visitors during celebrations,” he said. The camaraderie he shares with fellow boat masters, enhanced by humor, contributes to a positive work environment and improves overall well-being.
Navo believes that, like any profession, the operation of river passenger boats should prioritize the needs of the traveling public. He promotes the ethos of “helping one another, regardless of background,” advocating for a life that is conscious of those in need.
Through his water taxi business, Navo strives to assist the community while also putting food on his table and fostering a message of love and understanding. His admirable approach to life and work serves as an inspiration, showing that if everyone followed such a noble example, the world could indeed be a better place.