South Sea Cruises Group has confirmed the Fijian Government has updated its original position on the new Tourism Services Tax (TST), which will now apply based on when a booking is made rather than when travel takes place. The change affects all South Sea Cruises Group products from 1 September 2026.
The 5 per cent TST, introduced by the Fijian Government, applies to hotels, resorts, tour operators and cruise operators with annual turnover above FJ$2 million. The government confirmed on 25 August 2026 that the tax will not apply to bookings made before 1 September 2026, regardless of the client’s actual travel date.
What changes for agents and clients
Under the original ruling, the tax was to apply to all travel from 1 September, regardless of booking date, and South Sea Cruises Group had committed to absorbing the cost on existing bookings. Under the revised position, that absorption is no longer necessary because the tax simply does not apply to those bookings.
The outcome for clients is unchanged from what was originally promised: no TST impact on bookings made before 26 August 2026.
Revised rates already in effect
South Sea Cruises Group’s revised rates, loaded ahead of the government’s initial advice, took effect from 21 August for day trips and 25 August for all other products. These rates will not revert, meaning bookings made from 26 August onward will remain at the new rate levels regardless of the TST reversal.
Bookings made before 1 September 2026 are not subject to TST, regardless of travel date. Bookings made from 1 September 2026 onward will incur the 5 per cent tax.
On pricing, bookings made before 26 August 2026 retain original pricing. Bookings made between 26 and 31 August 2026 apply the revised pricing already communicated to trade partners. Bookings made from 1 September 2026 apply revised pricing inclusive of TST where applicable.
Agents with questions about specific bookings can contact the South Sea Cruises Group reservations team directly.
