Rottnest Fast Ferries Unveils Name of New Catamaran: Ocean Master
MEDIA RELEASE:
Rottnest Fast Ferries Unveils Name of New Catamaran:
Ocean Master
Rottnest Fast Ferries, an integral part of Pinnacle Travel Group and proudly Rottnest Island's only locally owned and operated ferry company, is pleased to announce that its new 32-metre catamaran will be named Ocean Master. This name was chosen by local owners James Mulholland and Luke Crispin to maintain consistency within the company's fleet, following a tradition similar to the naming strategy employed by Boat Torque Cruises, where both James and Luke began their careers in the marine industry.
The decision to name the vessel Ocean Master is a continuation of the naming tradition established with Harbour Master, the existing ferry in Rottnest Fast Ferries' fleet. As the new vessel embarks on its journey from Hillarys Boat Harbour to the vast expanse of the ocean, the name Ocean Master symbolises the voyage from the secure confines of the harbour into open waters.
On deck with local owner-operators Luke Crispin and James Mulholland as they review the construction of Ocean Master at Austal Philippines. (Image: Rottnest Fast Ferries)
James and Luke recently visited Austal Philippines to review the construction progress of Ocean Master, this visit marks the first of four scheduled alongside key milestones. The project is on schedule with major structural sections of the vessel having been completed, including hulls constructed and rolled over. The superstructure has been lifted onto the hulls and the team at Austal has begun welding these components together.
Pictured Left: Overall Hull Construction. Pictured Right: Overall Superstructure Construction by Austal. (Image: Austal Philippines)
James and Luke were thoroughly impressed with the quality of work and the meticulous diligence demonstrated by Austal. "The craftsmanship and precision we've seen in this build are remarkable. We are confident that Ocean Master will be a vessel of exceptional quality, delivered on schedule," said Luke.
Upon completion, Ocean Master will embark on its delivery journey from the Philippines to Broome, Western Australia, facilitated by International Maritime Services (IMS), a Western Australian company. From Broome, James, Luke and the Rottnest Fast Ferries crew will take over the vessel and complete its final leg to its home within Hillarys Boat Harbour.
Progress images of Ocean Master in various stages of construction.
(Image: Rottnest Fast Ferries)
The new ferry will feature wide-open aft and roof decks, as well as a stepped whale watching deck on the bow. The new ferry is custom-built for whale watching and stands as the first purpose-built vessel for Rottnest since 1999. James Mulholland expressed his satisfaction, saying, "We are excited to deliver a vessel that enhances our whale watching tours and offers our passengers an unparalleled experience on the journey to Rottnest." Ocean Master is set to join the Rottnest Fast Ferries fleet in time for the next peak season, further strengthening the connection between the mainland and Rottnest Island.
Media Contact: Jared Brazier, [email protected] (+61) 439 983 784
ABOUT ROTTNEST FAST FERRIES
Rottnest Fast Ferries is Rottnest's only locally owned and operated ferry company, providing fast and affordable transportation to Rottnest. Offering daily departures from Hillarys Boat Harbour, the marina and tourist precinct only 25 minutes from Perth's CBD. Free parking and complimentary hotel transfers from major hotels are available. For more information, visit: https://www.rottnestfastferries.com.au/
ABOUT PINNACLE TRAVEL GROUP
As a fully integrated, Western Australian, family-owned business with over 40 years of tourism experience, Pinnacle Travel Group delivers excellence in transportation services. It encompasses industry-leading ferry services, coach day tours, and niche seasonal products, all locally owned and operated. For more information, visit: https://www.pinnacletravelgroup.com.au/
ABOUT AUSTAL
Austal is Australia's global shipbuilder and defence prime contractor, designing, constructing, and sustaining advanced commercial and defence vessels. With over 35 years of experience, Austal has delivered over 350 vessels for more than 122 operators in 59 countries. For more information, visit: https://www.austal.com/