Interislander

When Interislander Ferries Go Fishing for Damage – A Hull of a Situation!

The Interislander Aratere has had a rough week after hitting a linkspan in Wellington. Let's dive into the choppy waters of this ferry fiasco!

Ahoy, mateys! Buckle up as we recount the latest seabound saga from the Interislander ferry service. The Aratere ferry, known for its scenic trips across the stunning Cook Strait, has found itself in hot water – quite literally – after a bumpy arrival in Wellington. Recently back in action after a prior incident, the Aratere managed to crash into a linkspan while docking, causing significant hull damage that now requires urgent repairs. Thankfully, all 100 passengers and the 40 crew members on board emerged unscathed, much to the relief of everyone involved. But let’s be real, it’s a bit of a rocky start for this ferry, isn't it?

Now, before you grab your pitchforks, let’s consider the weather. Reports indicate that the mischief was partially caused by strong winds that played tricks on the Aratere while it was trying to berth. It seems Mother Nature herself decided to help the ferry on its journey, giving it a solid shove when it least expected it. This isn’t the first rodeo for the poor vessel; it had recently returned from a small vacation in the Picton shallows where it had a run-in with the bottom of the sea. The only thing on the horizon now is a much-needed dry dock for the vessel.

However, this mishap has sparked frustration among local transport operators and commuters alike, with many stating that the Interislander service needs a serious rethink. "Shambles would be an understatement," one exasperated operator commented. The question now remains – how many more hiccups can the Aratere take before it becomes a full-blown ferry fiasco? With some passengers questioning their faith in the ferry service, it’s clear that the Interislander has some serious smoothing out to do in terms of its operations.

As a fun fact, did you know that the average ferry travels approximately 25 nautical miles when crossing the Cook Strait? It’s known for its stunning scenic views, and typically smooth sailings. And speaking of journeys, the Interislander service has been running since 1960, making it a beloved institution in New Zealand’s transport history. But let’s be honest; we’d all love our ferries to keep their hulls intact while they’re at it! Here’s hoping the Aratere bounces back quickly, because the water's waiting for its next adventure!