Top 5 Reasons to Dive Fiji, The Soft Coral Capital | 72 Aquatics 2026
Ben Lair Aug 04, 2025
Bula! Top 5 Reasons to Dive Fiji with 72 Aquatics in 2026
In the world of scuba diving, certain names are spoken with a unique sense of wonder and reverence. Fiji is one of those names. This collection of more than 300 islands in the heart of the South Pacific isn't just a beautiful tropical getaway; it's a world-class underwater ecosystem that has rightfully earned its title as the "Soft Coral Capital of the World."
For any serious diver, a trip to Fiji is a rite of passage. That’s why we at 72 Aquatics are thrilled to announce our return to this underwater paradise in 2026 for 11 days of fantastic diving at the VoliVoli Beach Resort. If you've been dreaming of a dive trip that combines breathtaking beauty, thrilling marine encounters, and incredible hospitality, this is it.
Here are the top five reasons why Fiji should be at the top of your list for 2026.
1. You'll Dive Through The "Soft Coral Capital of the World"
This isn't just a marketing slogan; it's a reality. The currents that flow through the Fijian islands, particularly in areas like the Bligh Water and the Koro Sea, are rich with nutrients. This creates the perfect environment for Dendronephthya, the soft corals that paint the reefs in impossible shades of pink, purple, orange, and fiery red. Drifting along a wall like the famous "Great White Wall" or "Rainbow Reef" is like flying through a submerged, psychedelic garden. The sheer density and vibrancy of the coral are unlike anywhere else on earth, making every dive a dream for photographers and sightseers alike.
2. Thrilling (and Healthy) Shark Encounters
Fiji is home to some of the healthiest and most diverse shark populations on the planet. Thanks to dedicated marine reserves and a deep cultural respect for these apex predators, diving here offers incredible encounters. It's common to see whitetip, blacktip, and grey reef sharks. For those seeking a bigger thrill, Fiji is also famous for its bull shark and tiger shark dives in specific, managed locations, showcasing the raw power and beauty of these magnificent animals.
3. Experience the Legendary "Bula" Spirit
Fiji’s beauty isn't limited to its reefs. The people of Fiji are world-renowned for their warmth, friendliness, and incredible hospitality—a concept embodied by the universal greeting, "Bula!" (which means "life"). On our trip aboard the Fiji Aggressor, we will have the special opportunity to visit a remote Fijian village. This is an authentic cultural exchange where you can participate in a traditional Kava ceremony, witness a warrior dance, and connect with the community. This experience provides a deeper appreciation for the islands and the people who call them home.
4. World-Class Diving from a Premier Land-Based Resort
To combine incredible diving with true relaxation, a premier dive resort is the perfect solution. For our 2026 expedition, we will be staying at the spectacular VoliVoli Beach Resort, perfectly positioned on the northernmost tip of Viti Levu. VoliVoli is renowned for providing easy access to the very best dive sites in the Bligh Water—the same sites sought after by liveaboards.
This gives you the best of both worlds. You'll spend your days exploring legendary reefs with VoliVoli's expert on-site dive operation, Ra Divers, and your afternoons and evenings relaxing by the pool, enjoying the resort's restaurants and bars, or perhaps indulging in a spa treatment. It's the ideal setup for divers who want a top-tier experience without sacrificing the comforts and amenities of a luxury land-based resort. It’s also a perfect option for traveling with non-diving partners who can enjoy everything the resort has to offer while you’re out on the water.
5. A Pelagic Paradise with Incredible Diversity
While the soft corals and sharks are the headliners, the supporting cast is just as spectacular. The nutrient-rich currents that make the corals thrive also attract a huge amount of other marine life. Keep your eyes on the blue for graceful eagle rays and majestic manta rays cruising by. The reefs are swarmed with massive schools of jacks, barracuda, and rainbow-hued anthias. Look closer, and you might find cryptic critters like ghost pipefish or colorful nudibranchs. From tiny pygmy seahorses to massive giant groupers, the biodiversity is simply staggering.
Join 72 Aquatics in Paradise
Our Fiji 2026 trip is more than a vacation; it's an expedition to the heart of what makes diving so magical. It’s a chance to witness unparalleled beauty, experience a rich culture, and share unforgettable moments with your fellow divers from the 72 Aquatics community.
Spaces for these trips fill up fast. If you're ready to trade the desert for the world's most vibrant reefs, visit us at the shop, check out the full trip details on our website, and secure your spot on the adventure of a lifetime. Bula!