Port Denarau Marina welcomed Tiger V into the marina yesterday afternoon with a traditional ceremony held by South Sea Cruises followed by blessing of the vessel by Rev. Jacob Gutuvakaca. The vessel was launched the sailors way by CEO SSC Brad Rutherford, Tui Lawa and Rev Gutuvakaca. With guests on board, the vessel departed for a sunset cruise to officiate the launch.
Tiger V, the latest addition to the Denarau-based South Sea Cruises fleet, arrived safely at Port Denarau yesterday afternoon.
This is the first of two brand new vessels announced last May by Executive Director Chris Jacobs.
He had said that the investment is valued at around $NZ 4million ($F5, 629,600) each.
The second vessel should be ready by year end.
The catamaran had left Australia with eight crew members last Thursday.
South Sea Cruises operates fast catamaran ferry services from Port Denarau to Mamanuca and Yasawa resorts, as well as day cruises and the famous 83ft schooner Seaspray.
Port Denarau Marina Limited general manager Cynthia Rasch said, “On behalf of Port Denarau Marina, I congratulate the South Sea Cruises team and welcome M/V Tiger V to the marina.
“M/V Tiger V’s entry into Port Denarau Marina will substantially increase our ability to service the growing number of visitors through the marina and the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands,” she said.
Tiger V is the sixth vessel berthed under the South Sea Cruises banner at the marina.
“It is great to see the industry bounce back after last year’s severe Tropical Cyclone Winston. It’s a real vote of confidence in Fiji’s stunning cruising grounds and world class facilities,” she added.
Source: Fiji Sun