The vessel which cost the government $8.3 million pa’anga was launched by King Tupou VI in Nuku’alofa.
Kaniva News reports the MV Tongiaki can travel from Nuku’alofa to Nomuka, an island 108 kilometres away from the capital in about two hours.
It can do a return trip from Nuku’alofa to Vava’u in less than 12 hours.
The vessel can carry 200 passengers.
Minister of Public Enterprises Hon. Saia Piukala said the MV Tongiaki is the most and latest advanced to join the Friendly Islands Shipping Agency’s fleet.
