Nqea Catamaran 24m Commercial

1987 NQEA 24m Aluminium Passenger Ferry | Highly Motivated Vendor | Ready to Work

Highly motivated and ready to sell, the vendor presents an outstanding opportunity to secure a high-capacity commercial passenger ferry following a refit exceeding $2 million in 2025. Presented ready to get straight to work under her AMSA Class 1C and 1D survey, this vessel deserves serious consideration.

Leigh-Smith Yachts is pleased to present this 23.98-metre aluminium passenger ferry, designed by Incat International and built by NQEA in Cairns. Combining proven commercial capability, substantial passenger capacity and extensive recent investment, she is well suited to passenger transport, tourism and commercial ferry operations.

The comprehensive 2025 refurbishment included new twin MTU 10V2000 M72 diesel engines producing 749kW each, new gearboxes, new exhaust systems and a new 45kVA Isuzu generator. Extensive upgrades across the vessel's electrical, electronic, hydraulic and safety systems complement the mechanical investment.

Cruising at approximately 24-25 knots, with a maximum lightship speed of 30 knots and approximately 13,000 litres of fuel capacity, she offers the performance and capacity to support demanding commercial operations.

AMSA Survey & Passenger Capacity

Class 1C: 246 passengers plus four crew.

Class 1D: 295 passengers plus five crew.

Extensive 2025 Refit

New twin MTU propulsion engines and gearboxes.

New 45kVA Isuzu generator.

Shaft and rudderstock inspections.

New exhaust systems.

Hull plating replacement where nominated and ultrasonic testing.

Fuel tank repairs and retesting.

Extensive electrical and electronics refit.

New hydraulic power pack for steering and anchor systems.

Replacement of critical bilge and fire pipework.

Renewed antifouling and recoating of topsides and cabin areas.

New seating in selected areas.

Modifications to starboard foredeck access.

Key Specifications

Length overall: 23.98m

Beam: 8.70m

Draft: 2.10m

Construction: Aluminium

Engines: Twin MTU 10V2000 M72,749kW each -- new in 2025

Cruising speed: Approximately 24-25 knots

Maximum speed: 30 knots, lightship

Fuel capacity: Approximately 13,000 litres

Generators: Isuzu 65kVA and Isuzu 45kVA, the latter new in 2025

Navigation: Simrad multifunction displays, radar, sounder and autopilot

Safety systems: Dual engine-room FM200 fire suppression, CCTV and passenger announcement system

Survey: AMSA Class 1C and 1D

With substantial refurbishment already completed and a highly motivated vendor, this is a compelling opportunity for an operator looking to expand a fleet or establish a passenger service.

Located in Yeppoon, Queensland.

Contact Leigh-Smith Yachts today for detailed specifications, to arrange an inspection or to discuss your offer.

More PHOTO'S and detailed specifications at Dealer Website