Ocean Master Arrives at Hillarys Boat Harbour

MEDIA RELEASE
HILLARYS, WESTERN AUSTRALIA

OCEAN MASTER DOCKS AT HILLARYS BOAT HARBOUR:
A MILESTONE FOR ROTTNEST FAST FERRIES

Rottnest Fast Ferries, proudly Rottnest Island’s only locally owned and operated ferry company, is excited to announce the arrival of its new purpose-built vessel, Ocean Master. This state-of-the-art catamaran reached Hillarys Boat Harbour early Monday morning, marking the completion of its construction journey.

Constructed by Austal Australasia and designed by Incat Crowther, Ocean Master represents a significant milestone as the first purpose-built ferry for Rottnest since 1999. Ocean Master is tailored for smooth, efficient travel, offering wide-open aft and rooftop decks and a one-of-a-kind stepped whale watching deck. These features provide unmatched views, making it ideal for both whale watching and island adventures.

“Ocean Master is a testament to our commitment to investing in Western Australia’s marine and tourism industry,” said Luke Crispin, Founding Director of Pinnacle Travel Group. “After a long journey, it’s exciting to see Ocean Master docked in Hillarys, particularly at such a critical time for our Rottnest operations,” added James Mulholland, Managing Director of Pinnacle Travel Group.

Ocean Master arriving into Hillarys Boat Harbour early Monday morning.

The Rottnest Fast Ferries crew are now busy preparing Ocean Master for immediate service, ensuring the vessel is ready to join the fleet and help ease operational demands over the busiest period for travel to Rottnest Island. "After months of effort, it’s so rewarding to see Ocean Master here in Hillarys," said Reid Pursell, Marine Fleet Manager at Rottnest Fast Ferries. "We’re focused on getting her ready to join the fleet and can’t wait to see her in action."

Crew members busy preparing Ocean Master to immediately join the Rottnest run.

An official launch event for Ocean Master is scheduled for 4 February 2025. This event will bring together tourism industry leaders, government representatives and staff from across Pinnacle Travel Group. The event will commemorate the vessel’s introduction into the fleet and serve as a celebration of Western Australia’s thriving tourism sector and Pinnacle Travel Group’s dedication to supporting its growth.

With its immediate deployment, Ocean Master will strengthen Rottnest Fast Ferries’ ability to meet passenger demand, reaffirming its position as the island’s only locally owned and operated ferry service.