The new Yasawa Flyer III catamaran will open doors of opportunities as it is expected to bring reliability and capacity that will stimulate investment and inspire growth in Yasawa.
The new vessel which was commissioned last week is 30 metres in length, with a capacity of 320 passengers. It replaces a vessel that faithfully served for 20 years and carried 2.5 million passengers.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, while launching the new South Sea Cruises Yasawa Flyer III transfer vessel, said in its lifetime, the Yasawa Flyer III is expected to carry more than 3.5 million people.
“That is not just a number, it is millions of stories, journeys and connections between our islands and our people,” he said.
“It supports not only tourism, but also community life, providing safe and consistent access for the people of Yasawa.
He said the fast ferry would carry travellers from every segment of Fiji’s industry; backpackers, families, couples and those seeking premium experiences.
“In doing so, it will spread the benefits of tourism more widely, supporting locally owned homestays, community businesses and resorts.
“The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji ensures that every vessel, whether new or old, meet the highest standards.
“It is because of this oversight and our partnership with international standards that the Yasawa Flyer III was able to journey safely from Australia to Fiji.
“That journey is not a technical achievement. It is proof that our system work, and that Fiji takes safety seriously.
He said passenger safety was not a guideline, it was the law, and it was non-negotiable.
“As Minister for Tourism I must stress this, that every operator must uphold these standards, without exception.
“Safety protects lives. It protects the integrity of our tourism industry, and it protects the reputation of our nation.”
He said the Yasawa Flyer was a statement of confidence in Fiji, and it was 100 per cent Fijian owned under Fijian Holdings.
“It is part of a bold $80 million investment plan that includes new vessels, resorts and attractions.”
He thanked South Sea Cruises and Fijian Holdings and everyone who had made the launch possible.