Raiatea News

Austal Ships has reported that a pair of cruise yachts ordered by Bora Bora Cruises of Tahiti are in the final stages of fitout at its modern shipyard south of Perth, Western Australia. “Tu Moana” and “Tia Moana” (meaning ‘strong on the ocean’ and ‘sure and stable on the ocean’) each provide 74 passenger berths in 37 outside cabins. The two cruise yachts will feature a high degree of comfort and luxury with a modern design inspired by Tahitian traditional art and incorporating the European touch of Tillberg Designs. Onboard features include a restaurant and galley catering for all passengers in a single sitting, gymnasium, library, indoor and outdoor lounges, two jacuzzis, an expansive sun deck and a host of watersports equipment, with easy access to the water.

Austal has secured a contract for two 226 ft. ‘boutique’ cruise ships for operation in French Polynesia. Ordered by Bora Bora Cruises of Tahiti, the ‘boutique cruise ships will be monohull design. Tu Moana and Tia Moana, meaning strong on the ocean and sure and stable on the ocean, will accommodate 78 passengers each in 37 cabins and will provice luxury cruises between the islands of Huahine, Raiatea, Tahaa and Bora Bora at a cruising speed of 14 knots. Due for delivery in early 2003, the cruise ships will feature a four star hotel standard in passenger areas and will be fitted to a high combination of double and twin share cabins, lounge and restaurant areas, a pool/spa and an array of water sports equipment.