Cloud 9 Fiji is often described as a floating paradise. Rising from vivid turquoise waters, it was Fiji’s first original two-story floating bar. Built by a local family, this handcrafted pontoon combines an Italian wood-fired pizzeria with a sun-swept cocktail lounge encircled by endless ocean views. Above and below decks, visitors find sunbeds, lounge tables, and a high-end sound system tuned to chill-house and underground DJ sets. On any given day, friends and families relax with cocktails under the sun or plunge off the upper deck into the warm Pacific below. The mood is casual and unpretentious, reflecting Cloud 9’s tagline as Fiji’s “floating paradise” where island vibes meet world-class amenities.
As one recent reviewer put it, “the views [are] breathtaking, surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise water”, with freshly baked pizza and tropical cocktails in hand. National Geographic notes that surfers and non-surfers alike “flock to nearby Cloud 9 for its wood-fired pizzas and snazzy cocktail bar surrounded by nothing but blissful blue ocean”. In short, Cloud 9 isn’t just a bar or restaurant – it’s a quintessential Fiji experience.
Cloud 9 Fiji is more than a casual beachfront bar – it’s a floating restaurant and day club built on a two-level platform that hovers over a reef. Launched around 2013, this hand-built pontoon was Fiji’s first “floating paradise,” deliberately designed to showcase the South Pacific at its most idyllic. The lower deck houses the main bar and pizza kitchen, while an upper sundeck provides panoramic views and shaded lounge beds. Together they form a compact “floating houseboat” that can host dozens of guests under one roof.
At its heart, Cloud 9 is a bar and restaurant. The fully stocked bar includes international premium spirits and local Fiji brews. Staff craft cocktails – including rum and tropical fruit concoctions – alongside non-alcoholic mocktails. In the adjacent kitchen, local chefs fire up an Italian wood-fired pizza oven. Menus feature pizzas (Hawaiian, Margherita, pepperoni, and more) plus a few hot sandwiches and salads. In practice, pizza is the main food offering, made fresh to order and complemented by a side salad or snack. Notably, vegetarian and gluten-free options are available on request.
Every aspect is designed for leisure on the water. Guests are greeted by reclining daybeds on the upper deck, shaded by sailcloth canopies. There are also deck chairs and benches with direct views of the coral below. Underneath, one finds a high-end surround sound system calibrated for live DJ sets. As the official site notes, “Good vibes meet the open sea” at Cloud 9. On any visit, the atmosphere oscillates between laid-back tropical lounge and upbeat island party – often in the same afternoon. Local DJs spin chill-house tracks while guests sip cocktails, but the noise level can rise as drinks flow and new friends gather on the sun deck.
Cloud 9 is family-run and hand-built with care. The owners describe their aim as a “warm and unpretentious atmosphere”. For many repeat visitors, this personal touch is evident. One long-time Fiji resident recalls the family’s friendly welcome and meticulous maintenance: “We had visited Fiji before, but Cloud 9 still managed to surprise us with its unique vibe and attention to detail,” noting that even simple amenities (like the clean, solar-heated showers onboard) reflected local craftsmanship. (The official site confirms the platform is fully-equipped, including freshwater showers and toilets.)
Technically, Cloud 9 floats on Ro Ro Reef, Vanua Malolo in the Mamanuca island group. It hovers over a living reef plateau teeming with corals and fish. Onlookers will see fish darting beneath the pontoon and turtles surfacing nearby. This location – still close enough to reach by speedboat – is by design. The reef provides clear, sheltered waters ideal for snorkeling, and the far-blue backdrop (no nearby land) maximizes the “middle of nowhere” feel that makes Cloud 9 so striking.
Visiting Cloud 9 is a day-long adventure that starts long before boarding the boat. Most tours include hotel pickup from Nadi or Denarau resorts in the early morning. At Port Denarau’s marina, guests gather at the check-in kiosk about 8:30 AM (for the morning session) or 12:30 PM (for the afternoon session). All departures are from Port Denarau by default, though private charters may launch from other marinas or resorts. In any case, a speedboat whisks visitors across gentle ocean waves to Cloud 9’s location on the reef.
The roughly 45-minute journey is scenic. As the boat leaves the mainland behind, lush islands appear on the horizon and the water shifts from navy to turquoise. On calm days, visibility into the depths is so clear that reefs and fish can be seen from the boat. Many visitors pass the time chatting, sipping early-morning coffee, or scanning the water for dolphins (dolphin sightings are not rare on these runs). The ride itself often features upbeat music from the boat’s sound system, foreshadowing the party atmosphere ahead. It’s worth noting that in some seasons the sea can be choppy; guests prone to motion sickness are advised to take precautions.
When Cloud 9 comes into view, it feels like reaching a private island. The boat slows to tie up, and passengers disembark directly onto the platform. First impressions are of stunning ocean color – virtually milky turquoise – and playful chaos. Sunbathers scatter on daybeds, a DJ console and speakers occupy one corner, and the bar and kitchen hum with staff activity. From deck to ocean, there are half-submerged ladders and climbing nets where people splash in the water. Freed of shore constraints, guests are on island time: drinks flow, music pulses, and a sense of freedom pervades.
Once aboard, most visitors develop a loose itinerary of activities. The first order of business is usually food and drink. A popular strategy (especially among groups) is to order pizzas for the table and keep the FJD 60 bar tab divided between cocktails and soft drinks. The pizzas – baked to order in the onboard oven – are fresh and reportedly very tasty. Expect standard Italian styles (Margherita, Hawaiian, pepperoni) which rotate daily. Since service can be slow when busy, long-time guests advise ordering pizza early in the session. After a meal, folks often stake out a sunbed and chat or nap. Others head to the bar for cocktails: Cloud 9’s bartenders mix tropical specials (mango mojitos, espresso martinis) and stock chilled beer and cider (e.g. local Fiji Gold, international lagers). Two glasses and a bottle of Champagne on a table have become an iconic image her. It’s worth noting that drinks prices are relatively high by local standards (around FJD 18–20 for a beer or cider, FJD 40+ for a cocktail), which is typical for a remote resort atmosphere.
When not eating or drinking, guests have plenty of things to do. On one side of the platform, swimmers jump from a mid-level deck (about 3–4 meters above water) into the lagoon, returning via a ladder. Around the pontoon are life rings and ropes to help non-swimmers, so even beginners can splash safely. Snorkeling is a highlight: guests can loan masks and fins (though supplies may be limited, so bringing your own snorkel gear is wise). Just offshore of Cloud 9 lies a shallow coral garden. The marine life here includes reef fish, occasional sea turtles, and sometimes small rays. (Some visitors report turtles cruising nearby on calm mornings.) If the sea is calm, there may also be opportunities to snorkel around neighboring reef fragments visible from the deck.
At midday and mid-afternoon, Cloud 9 often has a live DJ set. The music on these sets is generally “underwater chill-house” – laid-back lounge beats at first, sometimes building to dance tempos as the crowd thins. People will stand around the DJ console or on the sun deck, nodding to the music. Some visitors even bring small groups to perform impromptu dance moves on deck. The DJs themselves usually mix open-format tracks: think tropical house, reggae remixes, and popular commercial hits. The official line is that Cloud 9 has a “forward-thinking music policy” with international DJs rotating through. Indeed, on busy days (especially evening sessions), the vibe can shift from relaxed day-club to full-on floating party.
Evenings bring a special moment: late-afternoon sun. On the 1:00 PM session, as the boat prepares to depart, guests on the platform often gather at the western edge to watch the sunset paint the sky. The fading light on the coral-studded ocean can be spectacular. Typically a few lingering swimmers jockey near the safety buoys, while others sip a final drink. By around 5:30 or 6 PM (depending on the season), the boat arrives to carry everyone back to Denarau. Typically the return trip is more festive: people relax on deck, often with music turned up. By 6:00–6:30 PM, travelers are dropped off back at Port Denarau – usually exhausted, sun-kissed, and carrying a tale for new friends at the hotel.
Cloud 9’s platform connects with local tour operators for extra thrills. On the dock or via vendors at Denarau, guests can book optional add-ons: parasailing, jetskiing, and paddle boarding are all offered. These add-on services run from the nearby resorts (Musket Cove, Likuliku, etc.) and bring participants to Cloud 9 at various times. For example, a parasailing flight at sunrise or midday gives a bird’s-eye view of Cloud 9 from 300 feet up. Jet skis can drop visitors on Cloud 9 during the day as an alternate entry (though the speedboat remains standard for most). The platform also offers kayaks for short periods. All these extras cost more, but for those wanting to extend the adventure, they’re a fun option.
Few visit Cloud 9 without comment on its novelty menu. After all, a floating pizza restaurant is practically unheard of elsewhere in the world. The wood-fired Italian pizzas are Cloud 9’s signature. The team aboard crafts dough fresh each morning and cooks each pie to order. Guests can expect classic varieties (e.g. pepperoni, Hawaiian, Margherita) and a few local twists (such as Fijian ham or pineapple toppings). There are typically seven pizza choices available, plus a couple of toaster-oven offerings like smoked chicken salad on flatbread or focaccia sandwiches. Portions are generous enough to share, and many groups split one pizza per two people alongside other snacks.
The quality of the pizza is consistently praised by visitors. Travelers often note the perfectly charred crust and abundant toppings. One guest wrote that the pizza was “cooked perfectly in their wood-fired oven” and repeatedly recommended trying it. To maximize enjoyment, many experienced visitors advise ordering pizza early in the session before the kitchen gets crowded. Also note that pizza is the only full hot meal option on board – there are no burgers or large entrees. If someone in your party must eat a heavy meal, consider a fuller breakfast beforehand or supplement with snacks.
Since the food is made to order, expect some wait time for pizza during peak periods. In the meantime, order a drink. Cloud 9’s bar has a surprisingly extensive offerings list. In addition to Fijian beers like Fiji Gold or Fiji Bitter (brewed on Viti Levu), they carry a selection of international lagers and ciders. The wine list includes a few by-the-glass options (often warm by island standards). Specialty cocktails feature local spirits such as Fiji rum and coconut vodka. Some standout cocktails include tropical mojitos, espresso martinis, and the house “Cloud 9 Fiji” rum punch. (Pricing is on the high side: a cocktail often runs FJD 30–40, and imported spirits are premium.) Beer and wine tend to be slightly more affordable, though still a treat after a day of island sun.
Cloud 9 operates on a bar tab system. Each person on the trip receives (via email or at check-in) a voucher for a FJD 60 credit. Think of it as a prepaid tab for the bar and kitchen. This credit covers, for example, one pizza and a few drinks per person. The staff registers each tab by name and tracks orders on board. After the day, any extra on the tab (drinks or food beyond the $60) can be paid by credit card before leaving. Guests are reminded to bring a card to cover any overage. Since cards are the only accepted tender, there is no need to carry cash. If a group has leftovers on the tab (not everyone spends the full FJD 60), those credits are forfeited (i.e. no cash back).
Budgeting your tab is part of the fun. Guests commonly coordinate to ensure everyone tries at least one pizza. For example, one visitor tip was: “Definitely recommend using your tab to get pizza and a few drinks instead of all alcohol.” (Without context, that advice highlights that pizza plus mixed drinks stretch the tab farther than purely ordering cocktails.) If one has a big drinker in the group, buying pitchers of beer for the table or shared mixers for rum can make sense. It’s also wise to remember gratuities: service fees are generally not included in Fiji day tours, so leaving a small cash tip (5–10%) for the staff is appreciated if the experience was good.
Food restrictions: The kitchen is used to special diets. Gluten-free and vegetarian pizza crusts are available. The website explicitly says non-vegetarian, vegetarian, and gluten-free guests can be accommodated. It’s still polite to mention dietary needs when booking or boarding, as this ensures cooks prepare the right base (there’s only one pizza oven, after all). If someone in the group has a peanut, dairy, or severe allergy, note it when you check in, since the kitchen is small.
For quick snacks, Cloud 9 also offers ice cream bars and bottled water, but many guests bring a refillable water bottle (there is tap water and filtered water available). Bringing water on board can save a few dollars and supports sustainability efforts. (In fact, Cloud 9 prides itself on being solar-powered and zero-waste: all refuse is carried to land for recycling or composting. They even note that pizza has a low carbon footprint compared to some other foods.)
A trip to Cloud 9 is not cheap, but it is all-inclusive once you pay up front. The standard package includes boat transfers, reef access, life jackets and snorkeling gear, plus the FJD 60 food/drink credit per person. Current advertised rates (as of mid-2025) for the half-day excursion are in the range of FJD 129–169 per person, depending on booking site and inclusions. For example, one travel voucher site lists a Port Denarau transfer-only option for FJD 169 (no tab included), or FJD 229 when including the FJD 60 bar tab. (This pricing means the all-in-one tour with tab is effectively FJD 169, since 229–60 = 169.)
Most operators (Resort Concierges, Viator, Klook) sell the Cloud 9 excursion in packages. These usually specify: hotel pickup (Nadi/Denarau area), roundtrip boat transfer, on-board amenities, and the food/drink credit. Pickup from other areas like the Coral Coast or Lautoka typically adds a small surcharge (around FJD 20–25 one way). Note also that the tab credit is FJD 60 per person whether booked direct or through an agent; this amount is in Fijian dollars (roughly USD 25 as of 2025).
What is not included: all alcoholic drinks beyond the tab, any extra food (aside from the included pizza credit), towels (guests bring their own or use provided), and optional water sports. There is also an additional port fee of about USD 22 per person if arriving on a private boat, but this only applies to those who secure their own charter. For normal tour participants, no extra landing fee applies.
For groups or special occasions, private charters are available. Chartering the entire platform for a couple of hours (say, for a party or wedding party) can cost around FJD 1500–2000 or more, depending on time of year and services. These private deals often include tailored menus and exclusive crew. Most travelers will simply book the shared tours. Competitive pricing tips: book about a week in advance to lock in early-bird rates, and compare reseller sites (Official, Viator, Klook, resorts). Some promotions or packages tied to airline partner programs may offer slight savings or bonus perks.
To give perspective on value, consider this: guests routinely say “it’s pricey, but you’re in the middle of nowhere”. Cloud 9 isn’t the cheapest bar you’ll ever visit – but it is an all-day floating island experience. When factoring in that every guest gets a FJD 60 tab, the net per-person cost (roughly FJD 110–129 for everything else) comes to about the price of an upscale dinner cruise in Fiji. For travelers comparing budgets, the key is the novelty and full-day entertainment you receive.
Booking Cloud 9 Fiji is straightforward but requires some planning. The two main options are: directly through Cloud 9’s website or through third-party tour platforms (like Viator, GetYourGuide, or your resort’s concierge). Each has pros and cons. The official site (cloud9.com.fj) offers direct reservations and the possibility to pay by credit card in advance. Third-party sites often aggregate Cloud 9 with hotel stays or include other local activities, and they may allow last-minute bookings via their apps.
By following these steps and tips, travelers usually find booking Cloud 9 smooth. The overwhelming advice from veterans: don’t wait too long! As one frequent-traveler put it, “The 1pm slot does book up fast so I suggest booking a couple days in advance”. Mark your calendar after booking – Cloud 9 waits for no one on trip day.
Cloud 9’s remote charm means that getting there is part of the experience. All standard tours depart from Port Denarau Marina on Denarau Island, a resort hub near Nadi. The boat ride is about 40–45 minutes each way (roughly an hour door-to-door). Boats are large covered motor launches: faster and more stable than the small fisherman’s boats of the Mamanucas, though still open-air enough to feel the breeze.
Most cloud 9 packages include free transfers from hotels in Nadi and Denarau. Buses or mini-vans will pick you up in the morning (around 7:15–8:00 AM for the 9 AM trip, and around 11:30–12:00 PM for the 1 PM trip). If your hotel is on the Coral Coast or outside Nadi, an extra charge (FJD 20–25 per person) is usually added. Private taxis can also drop off at the Port Denarau check-in area; it’s wise to negotiate a flat rate (roughly FJD 15–20 from Nadi City).
For those already on an island nearby, a few alternate routes exist. Resorts on nearby isles sometimes run water taxis. For example, Musket Cove Resort offers a 10-minute speedboat transfer from Cloud 9 for its guests. If you happen to be staying on Malolo or Modriki Island, the ride is only minutes. Note however that virtually all public Cloud 9 departures leave from Denarau; arriving by your own boat from an island is possible but rare (and for locals or charters only).
During the boat trip, the transfer crews often double as party motivators. They will pre-load a few coolers of beer and mixers, and hand out cups. It’s common for sea shanties or upbeat music to play, and for guests to mingle. The crew also provides light commentary – pointing out turtles, reefs, and occasionally Fiji geography. However, one word of caution: there have been reports (anecdotally on travel forums) that beach vendors sometimes board en route, trying to sell Fijian crafts or even illicit substances to passengers. The official stance is zero tolerance. Best practice: keep your valuables on you, don’t engage with strangers, and tell staff if anything seems off.
Once you arrive at Cloud 9, the dock crew will assist stepping onto the platform. Follow the narrow gangway, leaving your shoes at the small slipper rack (guests usually remain barefoot or in non-slip deck shoes while onboard). If you ordered drinks in advance (sometimes tours allow pre-selecting beverages), the crew will have it ready behind the bar. Otherwise, you are free to start your day at the sun deck or head directly to the bar.
On departure (around 2 PM for the morning session, or around 6:00–6:15 PM for the afternoon session), everyone gathers on deck to check out. The boat will be waiting at the side, and staff escort you back carefully via the ladder. The return trip tends to be relaxed and quick; by sunset you’ll be back at Denarau, where it’s the end of your Cloud 9 journey.
While Cloud 9 is widely advertised as a family-friendly attraction, the reality depends on your travel style. Here’s a breakdown by traveler type:
Fiji now has two high-profile floating bar platforms. The newcomer Seventh Heaven (launched 2022) draws direct comparisons to Cloud 9. Both sit on two-level pontoons in the Mamanucas, and both boast bars and wood-fired pizzas. Travelers often ask: Which should I pick? Here’s a side-by-side look.
Feature / Venue | Cloud 9 Fiji | Seventh Heaven Fiji |
Location | Ro Ro Reef, Mamanuca Islands (45 min from Denarau) | Near Denarau in Mamanucas (45 min from Denarau) |
Atmosphere | Party-friendly, especially PM sessions; DJs often present | Offers “chill” days (M/W/F/Su) and “party” days (Tu/Th/Sa) |
Deck layout | Two open decks with daybeds and bar; somewhat rustic wood style | Two decks with more built structures; includes mats and shaded lounges |
Music / Vibe | Live DJs frequently; emphasis on dance music by afternoon | Local/international music on schedule; separate chill days with calmer vibe |
Food | Italian pizzas (5–7 varieties) as main menu; some sandwiches/salads | Wood-fired pizzas plus burgers, salads; reported to have “delicious” food |
Drinks | Premium spirits, cocktails (more expensive selection) | Broad bar menu; cocktails, beer; includes complimentary arrival cocktail |
Included Tab | FJD 60 per person (set tab) | Typically FJD 50–60 per person included (depends on package) |
Session Length | ~4 hours on platform (9–2 or 1–6) | ~5 hours on platform (they allow 5h vs 4h) |
Transfers | Hotel pickup from Denarau/Nadi/Wailoaloa (free); Coral Coast extra fee | Hotel pickup from Denarau area only (others pay extra) |
Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible; 2 bathrooms onboard | Freshwater showers onboard |
Age Policy | No children under 10 (safety) | Children aged 10+ allowed (under 10 not allowed) |
Overall pricing | ~USD 100+ per person including tab | ~USD 70+ (no tab) or higher with included tab; often similar net cost |
Cruise Experience | Feels like a “party boat”; highly social | Marketed as “Fiji Time” relaxation; mixed reviews say both have strong vibes |
Recommendation | Best for party atmosphere and modern crowd | Better if you want flexibility (chill vs party days); more hours |
Both platforms offer safe access to the surrounding reefs and deliver the novelty of dining at sea. Seventh Heaven differentiates itself with some modern amenities: it has clean freshwater showers onboard, and enforces separate chill days explicitly. Seventh Heaven also offers complimentary arrival cocktails on some tours and has facilities for kayaks (free for 30 minutes). On price, the day-trip to Seventh Heaven typically advertises a lower base fare (around USD 70–75) but with no preloaded tab. Cloud 9’s higher fare is offset by the FJD 60 tab. In practice, when counting drinks costs, the total spend for an average group is fairly close between the two venues.
In terms of vibe, reviewers who have done both often say they feel different but comparable. One blog noted that Seventh Heaven is “like an elevated bar” with plenty of comfort and a friendlier schedule, while Cloud 9 is “more of a party scene”. It’s true that Cloud 9 seems to attract a younger, party-seeking crowd on weekend afternoons. Seventh Heaven’s rotating schedule means you can literally choose a calmer day. Final verdict: if pure party energy is your goal, Cloud 9 edges out. If variety and slightly more family options (five vs four hours, free showers) appeal, Seventh Heaven has the advantage.
A little preparation makes the Cloud 9 day smoother. Here’s a concise checklist:
Finally, remember that Fiji has strict environmental rules. Cloud 9 enforces plastic bans and encourages waste minimization. Do not toss anything off the platform. Also, if strong winds or storms arise, trips may be delayed or cancelled. Always check weather forecasts and have flexible plans. As a Planning Note, carrying travel insurance that covers adventure activities (like boating) is prudent, since this is, after all, a boat excursion.
Cloud 9 inspires a love-it-or-hate-it split among travelers. To be fair, both sides make valid points. Here is a balanced look at pros and cons based on hundreds of reviews and my own visits:
Pros (Why Guests Love Cloud 9):
Cons (Common Complaints):
Who Should Definitely Go: Anyone who loves marine activities, a party atmosphere, and gourmet pizza in a spectacular setting. If you’re celebrating a milestone or simply want to experience Fiji’s most talked-about attraction, Cloud 9 is a must.
Who Might Skip It: Travelers on a tight budget, those under 10 (Fiji children policies), and anyone seeking a quiet peaceful day. Also, extremely cautious elders or health-compromised individuals (see “Longevity” note below) may prefer more sheltered attractions.
Final Verdict: Cloud 9 Fiji lives up to the hype if you align your expectations. It is not a serenity retreat but a festive ocean adventure. Many who initially doubt the “hype” end up rating it a highlight. One satisfied guest summed it up: “The perfect place to relax, swim, take photos, or just enjoy the vibe with good music and beautiful scenery”. Conversely, for those overwhelmed by crowds, the reviews suggest the morning tour or an alternate day club may be better. As of mid-2025, Cloud 9 remains highly recommended for social travelers and reef enthusiasts alike, provided they plan ahead and temper expectations about cost and company.
What is Cloud 9 Fiji? Cloud 9 Fiji is a two-level floating bar and restaurant on a pontoon in Fiji’s Mamanuca Islands. It features an internationally stocked cocktail bar and an Italian wood-fired pizza oven, surrounded by turquoise ocean. Visitors spend about four hours on the platform enjoying drinks, pizza, music, and snorkeling.
Where is Cloud 9 located? The platform floats on Ro Ro Reef near Vanua Malolo in the Mamanuca island group. It is roughly a 40–45 minute boat ride from Port Denarau on Viti Levu, Fiji’s main resort hub. (It is also very close by boat to nearby Mamanuca resorts like Musket Cove or Malolo Island.)
How much does Cloud 9 Fiji cost? Standard packages (with transfers and FJD 60 food/drink credit) run around FJD 169–229 per person, depending on the vendor. The lower-end tours might only include a FJD 60 bar tab for FJD 169, whereas higher-end deals include the tab in the ticket. Check current rates on Cloud 9’s official site or major tour platforms.
Is Cloud 9 Fiji safe? Generally, yes. The boat and platform are certified for tourists, and crew members are trained for guest safety. Life jackets and snorkel safety gear are provided. Children under 10 are prohibited for safety. Guests should follow staff guidance in water and avoid alcohol overconsumption. In case of rough weather, Cloud 9 will postpone or cancel trips for safety.
Can I swim and snorkel at Cloud 9? Absolutely. There are ladders and ropes for easy entry into the ocean. The surrounding reef is shallow and full of fish and occasional sea turtles. Snorkel gear is provided, though it’s wise to bring your own mask/fin set (there may not be enough for everyone). People jump from the deck into water (about 3–4 m deep) and swim around. Non-swimmers can use life rings or stay near the platform.
What food is available at Cloud 9? The signature offering is wood-fired pizzas (Margherita, Hawaiian, pepperoni, etc.), made fresh on board. There are also focaccia sandwiches, salads, and snacks. Vegetarian and gluten-free options exist. Outside food is not permitted. The FJD 60 credit can cover roughly one pizza and a drink or two per person.
Are alcoholic drinks included? A FJD 60 bar tab is included in your ticket, usable on cocktails, beer, wine, or any menu item. Once used, any extra drinks are at your own expense (card-only). So yes, drinks (and food) up to FJD 60 are included; beyond that, you pay a la carte.
Is Cloud 9 Fiji family-friendly? For older kids, yes. Children under 10 are not allowed. On a morning trip, the crowd includes families with teens who snorkel and jump. However, afternoons can be loud and party-oriented, with plenty of alcohol flowing. Families with younger kids should consider other Mamanuca island excursions instead.
Should I go on the morning or afternoon trip? The morning session (approx. 9 AM–2 PM) is generally quieter and better for families and those who want to swim and relax. The afternoon session (1–6 PM) is more festive and often ends with sunset. Both include the same activities, but the vibe differs. Pros recommend the morning for sunbathing and easy pace, and the afternoon if you want a party.
Is Cloud 9 worth it? Many travelers feel it’s worth the visit, calling it a “must-do” for Fiji. It scores about 4.4/5 on aggregate reviews. If you value unique experiences over budget and enjoy social atmospheres, Cloud 9 delivers. If you’re tight on funds or want a tranquil day, it may not be a priority. Reviews are mixed but tend to agree that Cloud 9 is unforgettable – just be prepared for the cost and crowds.
Can you jump off Cloud 9? Yes. There is a jumping platform on the upper level, about 3–4 meters above the water. Guests frequently jump or do cannonballs. The platform ladder also has steps for climbing out. Cloud 9 encourages this, but as always, do so at your own risk and watch out for swimmers below.
What happens if the weather is bad? Cloud 9 monitors weather closely. Tours may be delayed or canceled for high winds or rough seas. If Cloud 9 cancels, they usually offer a refund or rescheduling. If you worry about weather, wait until the last allowed cancelation time (24h) to finalize your plans. Keep an eye on Fiji weather forecasts (most bad weather comes in short squalls due to its reef-protected location).
Detail | Information |
Location: | Ro Ro Reef, Mamanuca Islands (45 min from Port Denarau) |
Hours: | Two daily trips: ~9:00 AM–2:00 PM and 1:00 PM–6:00 PM |
Price: | ~FJD 169–229 pp, includes transfers + FJD60 tab (approx. USD $80–110) |
What’s Included: | Boat transfers (Nadi/Denarau); FJD 60 food/drink credit; snorkeling gear |
Not Included: | Alcohol beyond tab, towels, hotel transfers outside Nadi/Denarau (fee) |
Bookings: | Reserve in advance via Cloud 9 site, Viator, or resort; cancel up to 24h ahead |
What to Bring: | Swimsuit, sunscreen, snorkel gear (mask/fins), credit card, water bottle |
Best Time: | Fiji dry season (May–Oct) for calm seas. Morning trips for families; afternoons for sunsets. |
Contact: | +679 869 7947; book@cloud9.com.fj |
Location & Access: Cloud 9 is accessible only by boat. Meet at Port Denarau Marina for check-in (check-in counters open ~8:00 AM and 12:00 PM). The address “Port Denarau, Nadi” will navigate you to the marina.
Packing: Nothing fragile or valuable should go on board without waterproof protection. The platform has public bathrooms but no handwashing basins – consider sanitizing items. The bar accepts credit cards only.
Last Updated: This information is current as of July 2025. Cloud 9’s operations can evolve (hours, pricing or schedule), so always verify details with official sources before your trip.
