Fiji has reopened its international borders to cruise ships after two years of Covid-19 restrictions.

The relaxation of the rules restricting calls by cruise ships comes six months after the resumption of air travel into the Pacific archipelago, attracting 118,000 tourists.

The move is seen as helping boost Fiji’s ongoing economic recovery.

Cruise companies, passengers and crew spent £16.5 million a year in Fiji prior to the pandemic. 

A 2018 study on the economic impact of cruise tourism in Fiji found that each ship brings an average of £113,497 in spending per port of call and one passenger brings £33.50 of spending.

A Tourism Fiji spokesperson said: “With cruise vessels soon entering and docking in Fijian waters, the high direct spends by visitors to our shores will directly benefit handicraft sellers, which are mostly women, as well as local tour operators who regularly line up at the Lautoka port on cruise days.”

All travellers aged 16 years and above – both cruise passengers and crew – must be fully vaccinated with a Fiji recognised Covid-19 vaccine and an antigen test will be needed within 24 hours prior to arrival.

Valid medical travel insurance, with international coverage of Covid-19, is also required.