Fiji Museum & Thurston Gardens
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Port
Suva, Viti Levu, Fiji Islands
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
12,14
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$100
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Departing your ship, you'll board your motorcoach for a narrated ride throughout the city.
Traveling through Suva's busy downtown district, you'll arrive at Government House, the official residence of the President of the Republic of Fiji. The present mansion was built in 1928 to replace the original building, struck by lightning in 1921.
Passing the Walu Bay industrial area, watch for some highlights such as Saint Giles Hospital and the Australian Embassy, reaching Tamavua Heights, one of Suva's nicest suburbs, for stunning panoramic views of Suva Harbor and Lathala Bay. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will point out the National Sporting Center, site of the 2003 South Pacific Games, as well as the University of the South Pacific main campus and the Parliament House building. You will also have a chance to see the British and United States Embassy buildings from the comfort of your motorcoach.
Pause for some refreshments at the Grand Pacific Hotel, located right across from Thurston Gardens. Opened in 1913, the Gardens feature an array of native flora, including palms, ginger, colorful flowers, and water lilies.
The Fiji Museum is the oldest museum in the South Pacific. Inside, check out the archaeological findings dating back 3,500 years, as well as cultural objects reflecting Fiji'smore recent inhabitants of the past 100 years. You're free to explore the museum at your own pace. See the rudder from Captain Bligh's HMS Bounty, Ratu Finau (the last waqa drua double-hulled ocean-going canoe) made in Vulaga in 1913, and the boots of Reverend Thomas Baker -- a missionary eaten by cannibals.
Guests wishing to stay in town to shop or explore independently are welcome to do so but must make their own way back to the ship.
Please note:
Wear comfortable walking shoes. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen. Bring bottled water.