79 NQEA 1987 Boat for Sale

Sun Bird Yacht | 79' NQEA 1987

1987 NQEA 24M Aluminium Passenger Ferry | Extensive $2M+ Refit in 2025

Leigh-Smith Yachts is pleased to present this 1987 NQEA-built 24-metre Aluminium Passenger Ferry, offering impressive passenger capacity, proven commercial capability and the benefit of an extensive refit exceeding $2 million in 2025.


Designed by Incat International and constructed by NQEA in Cairns, this substantial commercial vessel combines robust aluminium construction with a practical layout, making it well suited to high-capacity passenger transport, tourism operations and commercial ferry services.


A major refurbishment program completed in 2025 included the installation of new twin MTU 10V2000 M72 diesel engines, each producing 749kW, along with new gearboxes, exhaust systems and a 45kVA Isuzu generator. Further works encompassed extensive electrical and electronic upgrades, hull plating repairs and inspections, fuel tank servicing, new hydraulic systems, renewed critical pipework and comprehensive exterior recoating.


With an approximate cruising speed of 24–25 knots and a maximum lightship speed of 30 knots, the vessel offers strong performance for commercial passenger operations. An approximate 13,000-litre fuel capacity further supports its operational versatility.


The vessel holds AMSA Certificates of Survey for Class 1C, accommodating 246 passengers plus four crew, and Class 1D, accommodating 295 passengers plus five crew.


Key Features & Specifications

• Length Overall: 23.98m
  
  
• Beam: 8.70m
  
  
• Draft: 2.10m
  
  
• Hull Construction: Aluminium
  
  
• Engines: Twin MTU 10V2000 M72, 749kW each (new 2025)
  
  
• Cruising Speed: 24–25 knots
  
  
• Maximum Speed: 30 knots (lightship)
  
  
• Fuel Capacity: Approximately 13,000 litres
  
  
• Generators: Isuzu 65kVA and Isuzu 45kVA (new 2025)
  
  
• Navigation: Simrad multifunction displays, radar, sounder and autopilot
  
  
• Safety: Dual engine-room FM200 fire suppression systems, CCTV and passenger announcement system
  
  
• Survey: AMSA Class 1C and 1D
  
  

With significant recent investment in mechanical systems, structural maintenance, electrical infrastructure and onboard equipment, this vessel presents an attractive opportunity for commercial operators seeking a high-capacity passenger ferry with extensive refurbishment already undertaken.


Located in Yeppoon, Queensland.

Contact Leigh-Smith Yachts for further information, detailed specifications or to arrange a private inspection.

Denison Yachting - Annapolis is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel. This boat is centrally listed by Leigh-Smith Yachts.

Denison Yacht Sales offers the details of this yacht in good faith but can’t guarantee the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of this boat for sale. This yacht for sale is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal from that yacht market without notice. She is offered as a convenience by this yacht broker to its clients and is not intended to convey direct representation of a specific yacht for sale.