Fiji Princess Cruise Ship Grounds on Reef Near Cast Away Island – 4 April 2026

Introduction

The Fiji Princess cruise ship ran aground after striking a coral reef near Monuriki Island in Fiji on 4 April 2026. Passengers were evacuated and no injuries were reported.

What happened

Fiji Princess, operated by Blue Lagoon Cruises, was sailing through Fiji’s Mamanuca archipelago on a seven-day itinerary when it struck a reef near Monuriki Island, a location associated with the filming of Cast Away. The vessel was carrying approximately 30 passengers and a similar number of crew members.

Response and investigation

All passengers were safely transported back to Port Denarau on Fiji’s main island, Viti Levu. Some crew members remained aboard while recovery planning began. No injuries were reported. The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji opened an investigation, while local reports indicated that rough weather may have contributed to the grounding.

Key points

• Fiji Princess struck a coral reef near Monuriki Island on 4 April 2026.
• Approximately 30 passengers and a similar number of crew members were aboard.
• Passengers were evacuated to Port Denarau and no injuries were reported.
• Authorities began investigating the circumstances of the grounding.