We’re excited to officially introduce the newest members of the Aroona family – our custom-built tenders, Zephyr and Makani.
These two purpose-built 6.6m centre console vessels have been designed to expand the Aroona experience, giving our guests even greater flexibility and access to the untouched corners of the Great Barrier Reef. Whether remote flats fishing, reef diving, island hopping, or kite surfing, Zephyr and Makani are built to get you there quickly, safely, and in comfort.
Each tender is equipped with twin 140 hp Suzuki outboards, cruising comfortably at 25 knots and reaching a top speed of 38 knots, with a range of 250 nautical miles.. They’re surveyed for five passengers plus one crew, giving small groups the freedom to head out on personalised day missions – whether you’re after a remote sand cay picnic, a crystal-clear snorkelling spot, or a private fishing session with your guide.
Both boats are fully equipped with live bait tanks and casting platforms, custom dive doors and ladders, a freshwater tank with a shower, saltwater washdown hose, electric trolling motors, 400 amp hour house bank, Furuno nav systems, auto pilot with side and down scan sonar, and sound systems for the tunes. Every detail has been considered to support a seamless day on the water—and they’re already proving to be game-changers on charter.
Zephyr and Makani recently joined Aroona on their first voyage north to Princess Charlotte Bay. The crew’s excitement was palpable even with some patchy weather on departure. For the first time, our mothership was joined by two nimble, capable little brothers – and the possibilities felt endless.
Having both tenders available means more spontaneity, more remote access, and more ways to tailor each charter to the guests on board. It’s an exciting leap forward for our team and one that reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering best-in-class private reef experiences.
In addition to supporting liveaboard expeditions with Aroona, Zephyr, and Makani can also be booked independently for private day trips. Based just outside Cairns, they’re perfect for small groups wanting a fast and flexible option to explore the reef without committing to a full charter.
Whether you’re looking to land a barra, dive a reef edge, or simply spend the day exploring tropical waters with mates, Zephyr and Makani are ready.
We can’t wait for you to meet them.
Inquire on our contact form here.
