THE plans to get a fast ferry into Fiji still remains is still “work in progress” assured Seaview Shipping Services Ltd director Durga Prasad.

Despite opening a new business in Walu Bay, Mr Prasad said he was almost there in purchasing a fast ferry from Korea which would travel than most ferries in Fiji.

Mr Prasad is having talks with the owners of the ship from Korea. He has made several trips to Korea and hopes the deal will soon be finalised to make travelling by sea easier and faster.

“The boat which we are going for is a fast ferry. A catamaran style fast ferry which will be used as a shuttle service from Natovi, Nabouwalu, Taveuni and Koro,” Mr Prasad said.

“The speed of the fast ferry would allow this journey to be completed within six to eight hours.

“There should be no late night or overnight travelling. This plan had been in the pipeline for some time but the green light has been given shortly. Now it is all up to the sellers and if they are willing to negotiate the price.”

Seaview Shipping Services Ltd operates the inter-island vessel the MV Sandy.

According to the web, the fast ferries operating in Korea can reach speeds up to 40 knots and have the capacity to carry more than 400 passengers.

Mr Prasad said he wanted to revolutionise the shipping industry in Fiji and make customer satisfaction a priority. Ferries in Fiji travel around eight to 10 knots making the journey slow and long.

Another man looking to bring in a new ship is George Goundar of Goundar Shipping Ltd. With Lomaiviti Princess I reaching the end of its days, Mr Goundar is looking at bringing in a relatively new ferry to add to his fleet.