The Moment It Became Bigger

I realised this wasn’t going to be just another trip when I looked back at my career. I’d spent years working on superyachts in the Maldives and adventure boats in Papua New Guinea. Those experiences prepared me for exactly this moment. I could see a gap in Fiji’s market for small-group luxury travel by sea — something intimate, experiential, and grounded in culture.

With my background and the right team beside me, I knew we could bring that vision to life. And in doing so, we could create something that not only supports tourism, but uplifts the local community — directly funding the NGO project we’re building in Fiji.

A Vision with Heart

Right now, Fiji Surf Charter is the sole funder of our future NGO. Setting up a formal organisation will take time — and the $10,000 it costs to register could go so much further on the ground today. So, we’ve chosen to start small and tangible.

Our first project is supporting the school Duxon’s daughter attends — a kindergarten-to-high-school campus that serves children from across the region. We’re working closely with the principal to identify what’s needed most: basic hygiene supplies, sports uniforms, shoes, and educational resources. The school is also fundraising to build a library, and we’re inviting guests to bring book donations or contribute directly through our charters.

As the business grows, we plan to expand into larger community projects — upgrading facilities, improving access to food staples, and supporting underprivileged families to keep their children in school.

Travel That Gives Back

When guests step aboard Fiji Surf Charter, they become part of something real. We invite them to bring along donations — sports or music equipment, books, or surf gear — and we coordinate visits to local schools where they can connect directly with the community.

It’s not about charity. It’s about connection — the kind that humbles you and reminds you of what truly matters. I hope our guests leave with a renewed sense of gratitude for the freedom they have to travel, to experience, and to give back along the way.

Rooted in One Place

This year has changed everything for me. For years, I built retreats across Bali, Cambodia, Lombok, Egypt, and beyond — but Fiji has grounded me. It’s where culture, history, and ocean meet in the most raw and authentic way.

I no longer feel called to move constantly from place to place. My vision for Thrive has shifted toward depth, not distance — focusing on one destination, one community, one meaningful contribution at a time. Fiji is that place. It has everything I’ve ever travelled the world for.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As 2025 closes, I’m proud of the aligned partnerships we’ve formed, the lessons learned through slow, steady growth, and the heart that continues to guide this business. It’s been a year of trust — following intuition, following connection, and allowing the vision to unfold naturally.

Personally, it’s also been a huge year — Loïc and I were married just two weeks ago, and together we’re building not only a life, but a legacy through Thrive and Fiji Surf Charter.

In 2026, we’ll host six exclusive charter departures — intimate, luxury experiences for private groups, families, and brands who want something more meaningful than just another trip. Early next year, we’ll begin an eight-week renovation to upgrade our cabins and refine the onboard experience before the next season begins.

And beyond that? There’s another project quietly taking shape in Fiji — one that complements everything we’re building now. We’re not ready to share details just yet, but it’s coming.

For now, we’re grateful — for the slow growth, the aligned partnerships, and the opportunity to build something that gives back to the place that feels like home.

Stay tuned for 2026 — the next chapter of Thrive in Fiji.