Fiji’s largest and fastest ferry, the Yasawa Flyer III, is set to begin operations next year. This 320-seat vessel has been custom-built to meet rising demand, according to South Sea Cruises Group (SSCG) CEO Brad Rutherford.
Speaking at the Asia-Pacific Hotel Industry Conference and Exhibition’s Fiji Investment in Tourism Summit held at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa in Denarau, Rutherford stated that the investment is valued in the millions. The 30-meter-long fast ferry will serve routes to and from the Yasawa Islands, enhancing support for resort partners and local communities.
“Yasawa Flyer III will be the first fast ferry in Fiji fitted with a full active ride control system, which has been proven in other vessels to reduce roll in moderate-rough seas by up to 40 percent,” Rutherford explained. The ferry will also be equipped with modern navigational and safety equipment, commissioned with Starlink internet for reliable Wi-Fi, and feature GPS technology to provide passengers with real-time trip and destination information.
SSCG has partnered with Aus Ships Group, a leading design and build company based in Brisbane, to deliver the custom-designed ferry by mid-2025.
“The company is excited to bring to market what has been a considerable amount of design, planning, and effort over the past year,” Rutherford commented. “I’m also extremely pleased to have chosen Aus Ships Group to deliver this unprecedented project for SSCG and the people of Yasawa who will greatly benefit. This investment reflects SSCG’s confidence in Fiji’s future growth and the growth of the Yasawa Islands.”
The Yasawa Flyer III will have a capacity 33 percent greater than its predecessor, the Yasawa Flyer II. Like other SSCG vessels, the bow will be accessible for passenger viewing. However, due to the current limitations in hybrid and battery technology for long travel distances at speeds of 22 knots, SSCG has opted for the most fuel-efficient and technologically advanced machinery available to power the Yasawa Flyer III.