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Quickcat
QUICKCAT owned by Fullers Group Limited was built in 1986. Tonnage: 456 gross
Introduction
Prior to the introduction of the Quickcat, Auckland to Waiheke service was provided by a variety of older boats such as the Iris Moana, Baroona and the Kestrel. The journey time could take anywhere between 1 to 2 hours depending on the vessel used, loading and sea conditions.
The introduction of the Quickcat in 1986 brought Waiheke much closer to Auckland City with an initial crossing time of 30 minutes. This was later increased to 35 minutes to reduce the wake created as the Quickcat arrived in Auckland City. Nevertheless the true commuter age had arrived.
During the first few years of service the Quickcat was the only "fast ferry" providing Waiheke service. The older slower boats filled in if the Quickcat was out of service and for peak commuter services.
For a satirical take on the life of the Waiheke commuter, listen to this song by Mr Orange.
Collision in the Motuihe Channel
On the morning of the 4th of January 2005 at around 10.35a.m. five people were injured in a collision between a small charter fishing boat and the QUICKCAT. The 6.5-metre charter boat DR. HOOK and QUICKCAT collided in the Motuihe Channel, which separates Motutapu and Motuihe Islands,
The injured, from the pleasure craft, were transferred to the ferry. The Westpac rescue helicopter flew two of these people to hospital. Three other people with minor injuries were taken ashore from the ferry by the Police launch DEODAR 2 for medical treatment. The charter boat was holed on her port bow, and was towed in by a Coastguard rescue vessel. QUICKCAT continued her voyage to Waiheke Island.