Cross the lagoon by boat to Fenua-ura, a postcard-perfect uninhabited motu ringed by blinding white sand and electric-blue shallows. Tripadvisor reviewers call it 'one of the most enchanting islands you'll ever visit' — and you'll have it entirely to yourself.
What to expect
The 20-minute boat ride across the lagoon is itself spectacular — the water shifts from jade to electric cyan as depth changes. On Fenua-ura you find nothing but soft coral-sand beaches, noddy terns nesting in the pandanus, and silence broken only by wavelets. Snorkel the fringing reef just offshore for bumphead parrotfish and glassy sweepers, then dry off on the sand with cold coconut water. Your skipper stays with the boat and retrieves you whenever you're ready.
Good to know
Negotiate the charter directly with boat owners at the tender landing on arrival — arrive early as capacity is genuinely limited. Bring your own snacks and water; there are no facilities on the motu. Sunscreen, a hat, and reef shoes are essential. Allow a 15-minute buffer for the tender return to your ship.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Fanning Island — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.