Bigger, faster ferry en-route to Waiheke

Explore Group launches its brand new fast ferry on the busy downtown Auckland to Waiheke route next week, boosting capacity for commuters and tourists by 1,200 people a day.

D6, a new 250-seat vessel which will arrive this weekend from Australia, will be out on the water within days to ferry commuters and holiday makers to and from the island just in time for the peak summer season.

Explore CEO Kit Nixon says the new addition to the fleet follows the company’s successful launch into the Auckland to Waiheke commuter market in October, and will reinforce the quality service on offer to travellers.

“Every element of D6, our newest fast ferry, has been designed to provide maximum benefit to people who will use our service – whether daily to get into the CBD, or for those who are visiting Waiheke for the day,” he says.

D6 will replace the smaller Centurion vessel, which will provide back-up relief and operate charters in the harbour. From next week the timetable will be updated to reflect this change. For more information go to www.explorewaiheke.co.nz.

“We’ve installed comfy chairs and communal tables, and there are USB ports on every row of seats.

There’s even larger windows and a large bow and roof viewing areas to make it easy for people to take in the beauty of the gulf, plus a custom built café to serve guests quickly.”

“We want everyone to have an enjoyable experience out on Auckland’s beautiful and unique harbour, especially for those who travel regularly.”

Explore has also designed entrances to allow for quicker boarding and disembarking, and brought on a new MyWaiheke 30 Pass that provides 30 trips for only $330 (and valid for 12 months), which is excellent value to those who are casual commuters.

The new Explore Waiheke service runs at least 12 times a day from both Auckland and Waiheke, and also visits Motutapu as part of their daily schedule.

Updates on service schedules are provided at www.facebook.com/explorewaiheke and on Twitter @ExploreWaiheke

KEY FACTS FOR D6:

• Seats 250 people (180 indoors and 70 seated outdoors).

• Measures 26m long, and is three levels high, providing greater stability on the water.

• It has a top speed of 28 knots, which settles to 24 knots when cruising.

• Powered by efficient twin Yanmar eco turbodiesel engines, propeller driven.

• USB ports available for on board charging. Charging cords can be purchased on board for

$10

ENDS

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