Fiji Airways has released the second story in its Meet the Makers series, celebrating local businesses and individuals whose craft enriches the airline’s inflight experience. The latest feature spotlights Blue Turtle Gin — the handcrafted Fijian spirit now served to Business Class guests as part of their onboard welcome drink.
Paul Clark, CEO and founder of The Distillery Co, is the artisan and visionary behind Blue Turtle Gin, leading its development and distillation from day one. ]
“We’re thrilled to be part of the Meet the Makers campaign and to see Blue Turtle Gin served onboard Fiji Airways. It’s a wonderful opportunity to share a true taste of Fiji with travellers from around the world,” said Paul.
Pate Sowane, Head of Sales and Marketing at The Distillery Co, shares the care and skill that go into creating this uniquely Fijian spirit. “A lot of the botanicals that we use in Blue Turtle are uniquely Fijian. The Moli Kula citrus, kava dried in the Fijian sun, and other botanicals are sourced from neighbouring villages, where women put in meticulous work peeling and preparing them. I feel like every bottle of Blue Turtle gin has a little bit of happiness in it — and it shows,” Pate explains.
For Pate, Blue Turtle Gin reflects Fijian culture and artistry. “Looking at our culture, our heritage is making things by hand. It’s really special to have something like Blue Turtle being made by the hands of actual Fijian people,” Pate adds.
Now served onboard as part of Fiji Airways’ signature cocktail offering, the gin brings travellers a first taste of Fiji before they land.
“When guests are traveling on Fiji Airways and they try Blue Turtle Gin, I want them to feel they are tasting happiness. That’s what Fiji tastes like,” says Pate.
Akuila Batiweti, Chief Customer Officer, Fiji Airways, said: “Every detail we serve onboard is touched by someone’s story. This gin isn’t just a drink — it’s a first impression, a moment of connection, and a taste of home. And we are proud to share it.”
Through the Meet the Makers campaign, Fiji Airways continues to spotlight local artisans, producers, and craftspeople whose artistry and care bring authenticity, creativity, and culture to the airline’s world-class inflight experience.
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REFERENCES: This guide is based on over a decade of research and firsthand experience living in Fiji. It incorporates extensive knowledge gained through long-term residence and ongoing engagement with the region. Images and text have been sourced from official references, which are acknowledged below, to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness.
FOOTNOTES: Additional details, clarifications, or sources referenced in this article are included as Footnotes below the text when applicable; otherwise, no Footnotes are provided.