Fiji’s largest and fastest ferry will begin operations next year.
The 320-seat Yasawa Flyer III was custom-made to meet growing demand, according to South Sea Cruises Group CEO Brad Rutherford.
Speaking at the Asia-Pacific Hotel Industry Conference and Exhibition Fiji Investment in Tourism Summit at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa, Denarau, Rutherford stated that the investment was 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, he said.
“Yasawa Flyer III will also be the first fast ferry in Fiji to feature a full active ride control system, which has been shown in some vessels to reduce roll in moderate-rough seas by as much as 40 percent,” said Rutherford.
“Like all SSCG fast ferries, Yasawa Flyer III will be equipped with modern navigational and safety equipment and will be commissioned with Starlink internet to provide reliable Wi-Fi, as well as GPS technology to give passengers real-time trip and destination information as part of their journey.”
SSCG has appointed leading design and build company Aus Ships Group in Brisbane to deliver the custom-designed fast ferry in mid-2025.
“The company is excited to bring to market what has been a lot of design, planning, and effort over the past year,” Rutherford said.
“I’m also extremely pleased to have chosen Aus Ships Group to deliver this unprecedented project for not only SSCG, but the people of Yasawa who will greatly benefit.
“The investment is a clear sign of the confidence which SSCG has in Fiji’s future growth and that of the Yasawa Islands.
“The Yasawa Islands have been an extremely important part of the SSCG business for the past 25 years, and the investment in Yasawa Flyer III signals our commitment for at least the next 25 years.”
The vessel will have a capacity 33 percent greater than the Yasawa Flyer II.
Like all SSCG vessels, the bow will be accessible for passenger viewing, Rutherford said.
“Hybrid and/or battery technology is not advanced enough to support long travel distances of open ocean travel at speeds of 22 knots,” he said.
SSCG has opted for the most fuel-efficient and technologically-advanced machinery available to power Yasawa Flyer III.