Freediving in Fiji

[jt.water]

Hi all, im heading to Fiji next week to work for a year or more, based in Nadi. Was just wondering if someone out there could tell me if i should pack the wetsuit? Im hoping i can get by without if year round, but would be great to get the opinion of someone who has freedived there.
Would be great to meet some fellow freedivers over there too, but i'll pop a thread in the 'find a buddy' section.

Thanks for any info

jt

[rxcnc2]

I have freedived for a few days at the Waya (sp?) islands, a few hours away by boat from Nadi. I did it around December, didn't need a wetsuit at all but if you are going for a whole year and are bringing some amount of luggage with you, I'd pack in a 2mm or a shortie because I suspect that in the local winter sea water is cool. On the other hand, seeing that you are based in NZ, maybe you'd find it warm anyway.
From what I have seen of Nadi and its surroundings, you'd have to go some distance (either by boat or by car) to find some worthy spots. Even the Wayas, one of the destinations for tourists with diving ambitions, are quite pathetic compared to many other S. Pacific places. Problem is overfishing and poor visibility.
To cheer you up: I have seen a few truly great places and I'm probably spoiled.

[Newbie_spearo]

I'd think you'd probably be ok temperature wise all year round. I've been to fiji in mid june and no need for a wetsuit. How ever I think from a safety point of view it might be a good idea. More for protection against the sun and possibly any stingers taht might pay you a visit. Like rxcnc2 said, a 2mm or even 1.5mm with out a hood would be good. I'd leave your wetsuit at home and if the need arises just get one over there, or sent over from the states or europe? PM Jimdoe2you, as he has great prices as well as gives DB members a discount on his net prices. Check out The Spearfishing Store

[jt.water]

Thanks allot for the info guys. I've managed to have had a bit of a look around and found some nice spots. I ended up bringing my wetsuit but now that i've been for a few dives am thinking it will stay in the suitcase

cheers, j

[blaiz]

I personally have never been to Fiji but my dad has. He said temp was no problem but during certain currents alot of sea lice, and small jellys come in. Also Fiji is infamous for its "fire coral" a wetsuit might be usefull in preventing too much irritation from brushing up against the reef.

Im very jeallous! I hear there are quite a few sharks there too, might be pretty exciting!