A Voyage Like No Other
Experience the soul of the Pacific aboard the Uto Ni Yalo – meaning Heart of the Spirit in iTaukei – a majestic double-hulled traditional sailing canoe that brings Fiji’s ancient maritime heritage to life.
Built in 2009 using modern sustainable materials and powered solely by the wind and sun, the 72-foot vaka (canoe) has sailed over 80,000 nautical miles across the Pacific and beyond. Its mission: to revive ancient voyaging traditions, promote sustainable sea transportation, and advocate for ocean conservation.
Today, the Uto Ni Yalo stands as a proud symbol of Pacific resilience, community strength, and environmental stewardship.
The Uto Ni Yalo Trust leads powerful programs that blend culture with conservation.
The Traditional Sailing and Environmental Stewardship Program reconnects youth with ancestral navigation while promoting ocean sustainability.
In the Canoe Building Project, 10 eco-friendly canoes were built with the University of the South Pacific and distributed to communities in Beqa and Yanuca.
The Glass Crushing Project, led by local youth, turns waste glass into reusable sand, supporting community recycling efforts.
Each initiative reflects a deep commitment to culture, education, and a sustainable future for Fiji.
Notable Voyages
- 2014: Uto Ni Yalo sails to the IUCN World Parks Congress in Sydney, showcasing sustainable sea transport.
- 2019: UN Secretary-General António Guterres sails aboard, highlighting climate action.
- 2024: After nine years, Uto Ni Yalo embarks on the "Sautu" Voyage to the Pacific Islands Forum in Tonga, representing Pacific prosperity and unity.
New for 2025!
Rosie Holidays and the Uto Ni Yalo Trust are launching Exhibition Cruises — unforgettable half-day and full-day experiences aboard the Uto Ni Yalo.
Guests will sail the crystal waters off Fiji’s coastline aboard this historic vessel, learn about traditional navigation techniques, sustainable voyaging, and Pacific culture — all while supporting local conservation efforts.
Rosie Holidays & Uto Ni Yalo Trust Partnership
In October 2024, Rosie Holidays proudly signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Uto Ni Yalo Trust.
This partnership focuses on promoting regenerative tourism and showcasing the unique tradition of Pacific sailing to the world.
From a Tour Guide's Perspective
By: Joe Dalituicama
Our very own Rosie Holidays Tour Guide, Joe Dalituicama, shares his incredible journey sailing with the Uto Ni Yalo.
“I have been blessed to visit 11 islands across Fiji aboard the Uto Ni Yalo Exhibition Cruises. Every island, every village, every smile we encountered tells the story of our people’s connection to the ocean. Sailing traditionally, under the sun and stars, reminded me of the true spirit of Fiji – strong, proud, and deeply connected to nature. It’s an experience I will cherish forever, and I can't wait to welcome more visitors to share in this unforgettable adventure.”
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Sail where the spirit of Fiji breathes, where tradition meets the future, and where your adventure begins.