How to get to Tuvalu (Nivanga II, sailing ?)

hi there!

does anyone know something about the cargo boat Nivanga II?? when does it leave suva (fiji), heading to Tuvalu? how long does this journey take? how much does it cost?
or are there any other possibilities to get to Tuvalu, except from flying (too expensive)... are there any sailing ships or catamarans? doesn't have to leave from fiji necessarily...

please tell me about your experiences!!!

It goes about 4 times a year, with the dates only known to he agentin Suva a few days before departure.
The fare is low (or was last year), but while waiting for the ship in Fiji, you might spend more than flying would cost.
There is no other passenger service - just private yachts.

Flying is a bit cheaper now with Air Pacific. About FKJ$600 one way (taxes included). The Nivaga II does not have a set timetable but it always makes a trip around the christmas holiday period and again early in the year to collect and deliver Tuvaluan students who are studying in Fiji.