GOUNDAR Shipping Ltd’s latest addition, the MV Captain Inoke, was ceremoniously welcomed at Suva’s Mua-i-Walu jetty by the friends and family of the late Captain Inoke Ratotodro from Koro, who played a pivotal role in the history of Goundar Shipping. George Goundar, the founder of the company, expressed his deep gratitude to Captain Inoke, whom he viewed as a father figure. He fondly recalled their relationship, stating, “He’ll always be regarded as my dad… He was a great man. He still is. He’s with us for the rest of our lives. We’ll never forget him.”

The new vessel, a double-hulled fast ferry brought over from Korea, aims to enhance the travel experience for Goundar Shipping passengers, servicing the Levuka – Natovi – Nabouwalu – Ellington route. This ship is not just a new mode of transportation; it embodies the legacy of dedication and perseverance that Captain Ratotodro exemplified during his 30-year service with the company.

Melaia Ratotodro, the captain’s daughter, expressed heartfelt emotions as she reflected on her father’s contributions and the tribute represented by the vessel’s naming. “Our dad dedicated 30 years of his life to this company. We may miss him dearly, but we are grateful for what the company has done,” she shared.

Under the command of Sainimere Qutonilaba, who has been part of Goundar Shipping since beginning her career as a cadet in 2011, the MV Captain Inoke signifies the continued growth and dedication of Goundar Shipping to nurturing talent within the maritime community.

The ceremony included traditional rituals that honored both the ship’s namesake and the enduring spirit of the maritime industry in Fiji. It was a poignant reminder of the importance of community, familial bonds, and the legacies individuals leave behind through hard work and dedication.

In summary, the launch of the MV Captain Inoke serves as both a tribute to a beloved figure and a testament to the ongoing commitment of Goundar Shipping to its people and community. It signifies hope for the future, carrying forward the essential values instilled by Captain Inoke Ratotodro and inspiring future generations in the maritime sector.