Cyclone Warning in Fiji & WE Decided to Ride It Out in the Marina
Welcome back to another episode of WE|Sail. EPISODE 343
We were in Vuda Marina, Fiji, wrapping up boat projects and preparing to sail to the Lau island group when we got the news: a cyclone had formed nearby.
Within 48 hours, we went from resupply mode to cyclone preparation mode. We secured the boat, reinforced dock lines, prepared for heavy wind and rain, and made the call to ride it out tied to the dock at Port Denarau Marina instead of at anchor.
This is our first cyclone. And this episode shows the whole experience—the preparation, the intensity of the storm, the waiting, and the aftermath.
About the Storm:
The cyclone formed near Fiji with little warning. Wind speeds ramped up quickly, bringing heavy rain and sustained gusts. Being in the marina meant we had the support of professional staff, reinforced dock systems, and the ability to monitor conditions closely.
The footage shows how intense the storm was. But honestly? We felt it way differently than we would have if we were out at anchor. And that's because of the Vuda Marina staff.
They worked tirelessly during the storm—checking on every boat, adjusting lines, helping secure vessels, and staying proactive throughout. Their professionalism and dedication made a massive difference in our stress levels. We're incredibly grateful.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Q: Why did you stay in Fiji during cyclone season?
A: We choose to cruise year-round and stay flexible. When systems develop, we make smart decisions about where to be (marina vs. anchor, protected vs. exposed).
Q: Is it safe to ride out a cyclone in a marina?
A: It depends on the marina, the storm strength, and your preparation. Port Denarau has strong infrastructure and professional staff, which made it the safest option for us in this situation.
Q: What's the difference between riding it out in a marina vs. at anchor?
A: In a marina, you have staff support, reinforced dock systems, and less motion. At anchor, you're exposed to more wind/wave action and relying entirely on your anchor holding. Both have risks.
Q: Did VA have any damage?
A: No, she came through unscathed. Proper preparation and the marina's support made all the difference.
If you're researching cyclone preparation for sailboats, curious about what it's like to ride out a storm in a marina, or interested in the realities of cruising Fiji during cyclone season, this episode shows the full experience.
#cyclone #fiji #sailing #liveaboard #cruising #wesail #portdenarau #cycloneseason #storm #marinastorm #sailingstorm #preparedforcyclone #tropicalcyclone #fijicyclone #cruisingfiji #sailinglife #weatherevent #cyclonepreparedness
ABOUT WESAIL:
We're Erica and Warren, full-time liveaboard sailors who've been cruising for 7 years and sailed over 30,000 nautical miles. We share the real, unfiltered side of sailing life: the days at anchor, the underwater adventures, the work, and the moments that make it all worth it.
📍 Currently in: Fiji, island-hopping through the Yasawas
⛵ Plan: 6+ months exploring as many islands as we can
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WE|Sail
Warren and Erica: The Colorado duo who traded corporate life for a 30,000 NM Pacific odyssey, currently navigating the remote Yasawa Islands of Fiji aboard their Helia 44.
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