Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Travelers looking for a memorable day in Fiji often stumble upon the allure of Cloud 9, Fiji’s only two-level floating platform. This experience combines the thrill of being surrounded by clear turquoise waters, the fun of socializing with fellow travelers, and the chance to indulge in tasty pizzas and drinks—all in a lively, informal setting. It’s a popular choice, with over 450 reviews and a solid 4.5-star rating, which speaks to its appeal.
We love the way Cloud 9 manages to blend a relaxed, family-run vibe with the energy of a party spot. Its scenic waters and friendly crew create a welcoming atmosphere, whether you’re there to snorkel, dance, or just lounge on a sunbed. On the flip side, some might find the party-heavy scene a bit too loud or social-media focused, especially if they’re after a peaceful escape. Still, for those who enjoy fun, social environments with good value, this trip is often a highlight.
This experience suits travelers wanting a mix of adventure and relaxation, energetic socializing, and excellent views. If your idea of paradise involves lively music, fresh pizza, and a chance to meet people from around the globe, Cloud 9 is likely to deliver.
Key Points
- Vibrant atmosphere with lively music and social setting
- Excellent value including free transfers and a generous bar tab
- Stunning water views and opportunities for snorkeling
- Relaxed, family-run vibe with friendly staff
- Long boat transfer from Nadi or Denarau, worth the scenic ride
- Best suited to young, energetic travelers or anyone who enjoys a party vibe
What Is Cloud 9? An Overview
Cloud 9 is a floating platform with a distinctive two-level design, situated in Fiji’s crystal-clear waters. Built with both style and function, it offers a sun deck, day beds, a premium sound system, and a wood-fired pizza kitchen. This isn’t your typical beachside bar; it’s a floating oasis created for fun, relaxation, and socializing.
The tour includes complimentary transfers from Nadi and Denarau, with options for pickup from Coral Coast and Lautoka for an extra fee. You’ll start your journey at Port Denarau Marina, where a friendly crew will whisk you away across the water. The entire experience is crafted to provide easy, hassle-free access to one of Fiji’s most unique attractions.
Looking for more options in Viti Levu? Here are some other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary: From Land to Floating Paradise
Starting Point: Port Denarau Marina
Your adventure begins with a smooth pickup (if your hotel is included) or a quick trip to Denarau Marina. The group size is capped at 54, which helps keep the vibe lively but not crowded. Most travelers find the pickup and transfer process straightforward, with the added bonus of scenic views en route.
The Boat Ride: Scenic and Social
The boat journey to Cloud 9 can take about an hour, giving you a chance to enjoy Fiji’s beautiful waters. As several reviews mention, it’s a relaxed, fun ride with music and a friendly crew setting the tone. Some reviews note the boat ride’s length—around 1.5 hours each way—but most agree it’s worth it for the experience.
One reviewer humorously observed the boat ride as being a bit lengthy, but emphasized that the stunning scenery made it worthwhile. Another appreciated the staff’s attentiveness and friendly service, making the transfer enjoyable rather than tedious.
Arrival at Cloud 9: Your Floating Oasis
Once on the platform, you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of the water and a lively, informal atmosphere. The platform’s design offers multiple spots to relax—sunbeds, shaded cabanas, and a deck for dancing if you’re in the mood. The fish are all around, and snorkel gear is provided for those keen to explore beneath the surface. Remember, due to health protocols, snorkel masks with mouthpieces are recommended to bring or rent.
The bar is well-stocked, with an international selection, and guests receive a complimentary 60FJD (about $30 USD) bar tab—meaning you can enjoy drinks without immediate expense. The pizza is wood-fired, fresh, and flavorful, making it a perfect casual lunch or snack.
You might also want to explore these Viti Levu activities
Activities and Atmosphere
This is where Cloud 9 really shines: the platform’s vibrant energy. Expect music, dancing, and a social scene that appeals primarily to a younger, party-minded crowd. Many reviews highlight the fun-loving environment, with some noting the chance to meet travelers from around the world.
Snorkelling is a popular activity, with masks and snorkels provided. Several guests rave about the chance to get close to schools of fish, and some even spot turtles and other marine life. However, others note that the snorkeling experience can vary depending on the day and crowd.
The platform offers plenty of space for lounging, but some reviewers mention that the daybeds are first come, first served, which can be frustrating for those wanting more comfort. A suggestion from travelers is that a rotation system might improve relaxation opportunities.
Returning: Scenic and Social Again
The return trip is similar to the outbound journey, often with music and chatter on the boat. Some guests mention that the boat ride back can be lively, with dancing and singing, which caps off a memorable day.
What Makes Cloud 9 Special?
Stunning Water and Views: The water around Cloud 9 is described as some of the clearest and most beautiful in Fiji. It’s the kind of place where you feel like you’re floating in a postcard, with endless shades of blue and green.
Good Value for Money: At $112.42 per person, including hotel transfers, snorkel gear, and a generous bar tab, the experience offers solid value. The food (wood-fired pizza) and drinks are reasonably priced, and many guests comment that the day feels like a full, satisfying excursion.
Lively, Social Atmosphere: If you enjoy a party scene, Cloud 9 delivers. The staff keep the music pumping, and the crowd tends to be lively and international. Many reviews mention the fun of jumping off the top deck or dancing during the ride back.
Family-Friendly and Relaxed: Despite its party reputation, the platform is family-run and laid-back, making it suitable for travelers who want a mix of fun and relaxation—just not those seeking serenity or quiet.
The Downside: What to Watch Out For
While many rave about the vibrant atmosphere, it’s important to note that this experience is not suited for those seeking peace and quiet. Several reviews describe the scene as loud, energetic, and geared toward a younger crowd, with some mentioning that the platform can be quite crowded and the music loud.
Plus, the boat ride can be lengthy, so if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer shorter trips, this may be a consideration. Weather can also impact the day; if the weather turns bad, the trip could be canceled or rescheduled.
A few reviews mention issues like limited cabana space or the challenges of securing a comfortable spot, especially during peak times. Also, some guests have expressed concerns about the social scene—particularly regarding social media posers or the occasional inappropriate behavior—so if you’re after a serene day, this might not be the best choice.
Who Will Love This Trip?
This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a fun, lively day out with spectacular scenery. It’s perfect for groups of friends, couples who enjoy socializing, and those eager to combine water activities with a party atmosphere. It’s also great for anyone wanting a hassle-free experience: the transfers are included, and the platform offers a variety of ways to relax or dance the day away.
However, if your idea of paradise involves peace, quiet, and nature without the crowd’s energy, you might prefer a more subdued reef or island experience. It’s also worth keeping in mind that children under 10 are not accepted, so families with young kids should look elsewhere.
Final Thoughts: Is Cloud 9 Worth the Price?
For $112.42, the experience offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty, social fun, and good value. The free transfers, the included snorkel gear, and the generous bar tab make it a straightforward, all-in-one adventure. The lively environment, combined with the stunning waters and tasty pizzas, creates a memorable day—especially if you’re into mingling, music, and water play.
The reviews suggest that Cloud 9 hits the mark for those who want an energetic, social experience that combines fun and relaxation. While not for everyone—particularly those seeking solitude or a tranquil setting—it’s a popular choice for travelers wanting to enjoy Fiji’s iconic waters with a lively twist.
Ready to Book?
Fiji: Day Trip to Cloud 9 Floating Platform Including Food and Beverages
“Great day out. Good bar and lots of fun snorkelling and jumping into the water. Boat is about an hr but nice scenery.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Cloud 9? The tour includes complimentary transfers from Nadi and Denarau. Pickup from Coral Coast and Lautoka is available via resorts for an extra fee. Most travelers find the pickup process smooth and convenient.
What should I bring? Bring your own towels, sunscreen, hats, and reef-friendly sunglasses to stay comfortable and protect yourself from the sun. Masks with mouthpieces are recommended due to health protocols, and snorkeling gear is provided or rentable.
Is there any food included? The tour includes a wood-fired pizza lunch, which is well-liked for its flavor and quality. Beverages are available for purchase, with a bar tab included for drinks, but alcohol is pay-per-drink.
How long is the boat ride? The journey to and from Cloud 9 takes about 1.5 hours each way. Some guests find it a bit long but agree it’s worth the scenery and atmosphere.
Can I snorkel? Yes, snorkel gear is provided, and many guests enjoy the chance to see fish and marine life close-up. Remember to bring your own snorkel mask or rent one if preferred.
Is this experience suitable for children? No, children under 10 are not accepted at Cloud 9 for safety reasons. The environment is lively, party-oriented, and geared toward older children and adults.
To sum it up, Cloud 9 offers a lively, scenic, and social adventure that packs a lot of fun into a day on the water. It’s best for travelers who want to enjoy Fiji’s stunning waters with a dose of excitement, good food, and friendly company. If you’re looking for peace, quiet, or a more subdued snorkeling trip, this might not be your ideal choice. But for those craving a memorable, energetic day out, Cloud 9 delivers.
