Fiji’s iconic Blue Lagoon Cruises is offering a 30 per cent ‘early bird’ discount to all passengers booking on its 16 August 2010 ‘Historical & Cultural Dateline Cruise’ before 31 March.

This unique cruise offers a rare opportunity to visit Fiji’s remote north-eastern reaches, an area that rarely receives attention from the outside world.

Highlights include a stop in Fiji’s original capital of Levuka, the seldom visited islands of Kioa and Rabi, crossing the international date line at Taveuni, the Yadua Passage, the Drudrua and Kavewa Islands and Macuata on the north-eastern part of Vanua Levu.

New for 2010 is a picnic lunch in a coconut grove en route to Taveuni’s Bouma Falls and a traditional Fijian afternoon tea before heading back to ship.

A high spot of the overall cruise is the greeting by Kioa islanders, resplendent in traditional war dress, paddling out to greet passengers in outrigger canoes as part of their traditional welcome ceremonies.

Day six of the program is spent onshore at Blue Lagoon Cruises’ private island of Nanuya Lailai in the pristine Yasawa island group.

Cruise activities include daily shore excursions and water-based activities ranging from bush walks, snorkeling safaris, fish feeding, fishing and glass bottom boating.

Cultural experiences include a ‘Lovo’ feast on Nanuya Lailai, visits to remote villages and Kava ceremonies.

The boutique cruise specialist has positioned its newest vessel, the 60-metre MV Fiji Princess on the route.

Standard prices for the Historical & Cultural Dateline Cruise’ seven-day/six-night program start from AUD1860 per person twin share which includes all meals, all accommodation and cruise/cultural activities while on the seven-day/six-night program.

*Conditions apply. Please note prices do not include international airfares or beverages (other than tea or coffee).