$100+ Million Investment in Auckland Arrives

First Vessel in $100+ Million Investment in Auckland Economy Arrives at Viaduct Harbour

Big Fish, a unique 45 metre Luxury Expedition Vessel (LEV), and the first in a range of a new class of steel hulled adventure yachts worth more than $100 million to the Auckland economy, has arrived at the Viaduct Harbour for final fitting out.

Built for Aquos Yachts by McMullen & Wing at its Tamaki-side boat yard in Mount Wellington, Big Fish will complete sea trials in June before setting off for an historic global circumnavigation.

Aquos Yachts was set up by Hong Kong-based Australian businessman Richard Beattie to develop a line of high-volume, ecologically-focused world cruising vessels. A number of overseas yards chased the contract to build the new range of LEVs, but Mr Beattie chose to build the super yachts in Auckland.

Mr Beattie, CEO of TCC, the global leader in retail marketing programmes, explains: `You cannot fail to be inspired by what New Zealanders have achieved in producing this very special boat. Innovations include the first granite deck and the only 25' X 12' HD video wall of its kind outside the White House.’

Prior to leaving Auckland Big Fish will host a private gathering of NZ retail heads being held to celebrate Kiwi innovation and explore the vision that has made Aquos and TCC world beaters in their own field.

Mr Beattie adds: ‘As a believer in limitless horizons, I founded Aquos Yachts to change the face of ocean yachting. We have succeeded. Big Fish is the world's most eco-conscious yacht and she’s about to commence a history-making voyage to become the first vessel ever to complete a Polar Circumnavigation, including the first yacht transit of the fabled Northeast Passage.’

Three years in construction Big Fish combines the best attributes of a safe, strong and capable long-range motor yacht with the comfort, stability and amenities of a traditional 'white' yacht. The five-stateroom vessel and carries a crew of 10. She features floor-to-ceiling windows in salon, dining area and master suite, opening bulwarks port and starboard for an infinity-view dining experience, and opening port and starboard stern bulwarks that create the widest swim platform of any yacht under 65 metres. Big Fish carries a 29-foot custom aluminium long-range dive/exploration/fishing tender, offers active hull stabilization, and a full complement of expedition equipment including a pair of matched Laser sailboats.

McMullen & Wing has already started work on a second vessel for Aquos Yachts to be called Star Fish.

ENDS

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