When a tourism operator lays down $15 million on a gleaming new vessel, you know they’re not just dabbling in the water but declaring their maritime intentions loud and clear. Cruise Whitsundays has done precisely that, commissioning Austal Australasia to build a 36-metre catamaran designed by the naval architects at Incat Crowther. Slated for delivery in early 2027, the ship promises to change the face of reef touring.
Sture Myrmell, Chief Operating Officer of parent company Journey Beyond, didn’t underplay the scale of the moment:
“This is another step in our ongoing and significant investment in the Cruise Whitsundays fleet and facilities over the next few years. This new $15 million vessel will enhance Journey Beyond’s commitment to taking our guests further and ensure we deliver memorable experiences to Cruise Whitsundays’ two pontoons in one of Australia’s iconic locations, the Great Barrier Reef.”
Built for the Reef, by the Best
Austal Australasia, no stranger to building sturdy, seaworthy craft, was awarded the contract after a competitive tender. Their reputation for safety, efficiency, and reliability proved irresistible. Myrmell added with some pride:
“The new vessel will ensure Cruise Whitsundays maintains its position as the leading operator in the region.”
Incat Crowther’s design reads like a wish list for both passengers and operators. It is sleek, efficient, and built for the unique conditions of the Whitsundays. The catamaran will accommodate up to 390 guests, including 10 wheelchair-accessible spaces, while cruising comfortably at 25 knots.
A Floating Platform of Possibilities
The ship is as much about ambience as it is about engineering. Passengers can choose from indoor and outdoor seating, while the open-air upper deck offers a generous viewing platform, the spot where holiday snapshots turn into postcards.
The main deck, with capacity for 160 passengers, has been carefully designed with two food service areas, a separate bar, a spacious galley, and fully accessible amenities. This isn’t simply a vessel; it’s a floating hospitality suite tailored for reef wanderers.
Boosting the Reef’s Reputation
Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth could hardly contain his enthusiasm, positioning the new catamaran as a statement for the region itself:
“The Whitsundays is proudly known as the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, and this new vessel will reinforce our standing as the ultimate destination to experience. By combining luxury overnight reef stays with unforgettable day experiences, Cruise Whitsundays continues to elevate the standard of reef tourism and showcase the very best of our natural icons to the world.”
With 700,000 passengers a year using Cruise Whitsundays’ services, whether reef tours, overnight stays, or transfers between Hamilton Island, Daydream Island and Airlie Beach, this new flagship is expected to strengthen the company’s tourism portfolio significantly.
Industry Applause from All Quarters
Austal Limited’s CEO, Paddy Gregg, was equally buoyant:
“We are thrilled to be building this exciting new vessel for Australia’s leading experiential group Journey Beyond. This remarkable vessel will redefine adventure on the water and elevate the travel experiences that Journey Beyond is renowned for.”
Incat Crowther’s Technical Manager, Dan Mace, was also quick to highlight the design brief’s emphasis on guest experience:
“We’re excited to be working on this vessel, which Cruise Whitsundays have specified needs to be fully focused on providing a world-class tourism experience while optimising operational flexibility, reliability and safety.”
Why It Matters
This is more than a new ship. It’s a bold investment in the future of reef tourism, a tangible demonstration that, despite global uncertainty, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef remains a magnet for international visitors and a jewel worth presenting at its finest.
By fusing design innovation, accessibility, and sheer capacity, Cruise Whitsundays is not just moving tourists from A to B but redefining the journey.
By Susan Ng
