Fiji’s largest and fastest ferry is set to begin operations next year. The 320-seat Yasawa Flyer III, custom-built to meet growing demand, was announced by South Sea Cruises Group’s CEO, Brad Rutherford, during the Asia-Pacific Hotel Industry Conference and Exhibition Fiji Investment in Tourism Summit at Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa in Denarau.
Rutherford highlighted that the investment in the new ferry is worth millions of dollars. The 30-meter long fast ferry will service routes to and from the Yasawas, enhancing support for resort partners and local communities.
“Yasawa Flyer III will also be the first fast ferry in Fiji to be fitted with a full active ride control system, which has been shown to reduce roll in moderate to rough seas by up to 40 percent,” said Rutherford. The ferry will also be equipped with modern navigational and safety equipment, reliable Wi-Fi through Starlink internet, and GPS technology to provide passengers with real-time trip and destination information.
The ferry is being custom-designed by leading design and build company Aus Ships Group in Brisbane for delivery in mid-2025. “This project has involved significant design, planning, and effort over the past year,” said Rutherford. “We are pleased to have chosen Aus Ships Group for this unprecedented project, which will benefit not only SSCG but also the people of Yasawa.”
Rutherford emphasized that the investment signifies SSCG’s confidence in Fiji’s future growth and that of the Yasawa Islands. The Yasawa Flyer III, with a 33 percent greater capacity than its predecessor, signals SSCG’s commitment for the next 25 years.
The bow of the vessel will be accessible for passenger viewing, and due to the limitations of hybrid and/or battery technology for long-distance ocean travel at 22 knots, SSCG has opted for the most fuel-efficient and technologically advanced machinery available to power Yasawa Flyer III.
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