Inter island travel

Bula,

My boyfriend and I will be spending 6 days in Fiji! Arriving at Fiji's Nadi international airport at 2:35PM (Thu 17 January)
We would prefer to leave Nadi immediately and stay our first night on an island. Would it be realistic to go by ferry to Yasawas or Vanua levu the same day?
Which of these island is most recommendable? We want to spend romantic, lazy days, go snorkling, maybe fishing.
Where can we find more information (Timetables/price) on ferries? If we need to spend one night in Nadi, which hostel would you recommend us?

thanks much
Liesbeth

If you want to travel up to the Yasawas, then you will need to wait until the next day and catch the 8.30am boat (Yasawa Flyer) - it only goes once a day. Here is the link to their timetable Yasawa Flyer timetable
Oarsman Bay Lodge (Nacula Island) is the ultimate place for relaxation - stunning beach, fantastic snorkelling, laid back, food Ok but not great,bures or dorm available. Here is their website Oarsman's website
Another popular place is Octopus Resort, half way up the Yasawas.

I doubt you can catch a ferry to Vanua Levu the same day, unless you can find one leaving in the late afternoon from Lautoka. Most leave from the east side of the island, so you'd probably have to do it the following day. I think the Yasawas are a better choice for the short time you have.

I stayed at the Nomads Skylodge in Nadi for a couple of nights last month. It's got a pool, bar, restaurant etc and was pretty cheap. It's not far from the airport and they do free pickups and drop offs.

Great, thanks guys for these tips!

Liesbeth

Bula
spent 2weeks in fiji, most of time on the islands around the mainland of viti levu. I didn't go to the yasawas though, have been told that they are rather expensive, but as far as I remember the ferries leave from denarau in the morning. There are some very nice islands not too far from the mainland. I spent a few days on Nananu Island (2-3 hours drive from Nadi to Rakiraki, 10min boat transfer to island from ellington wharf, they offer also airport pick ups so you wouldn't have to spend the night in nadi). I stayed at safari lodge, very nice place, amazing snorkelling, did some kayaking and perfect place for a couple...deserted beaches, nice walks....
was some days on beachcomber island but it is more a party island, so not really relaxing..:-),great time though!!!
the south sea island is very nice as well, small and romantic place

hope you enjoy your trip
Tom