about us

FREEDOM FAST CATS

Based in Rosslyn Bay Harbour, Freedom Fast Cats offer private charters. Our vessels are available for private charters, commercial crewed or bareboat charters and for long or short term contracts.

Freedom Fast Cats has been proudly owned and operated by the Allen family since 1999.

The history of maritime tourism in the Allen family dates back to 1950, when Lew Allen established the first resort on Quoin Island – off the shores of Gladstone. Around this time Lew Allen bought a ferry called Freedom 1, marking the first of 26 vessels (and counting) to be owned by the Allen family.

In 1968, Max Allen (son of Lew Allen) started his own business, Max Allen Cruises. Max operated charter vessels and ferries along the Queensland coast, from Gladstone to the Torres Strait. The company undertook many maritime activities including diving and fishing charters, research support, surveying and salvages.

Max Allen Cruises became Freedom Fast Cats in 1999, running a daily ferry service to Great Keppel Island. Today, Freedom Fast Cats is managed by Max Allen, his wife Carmel Allen and their son Max Allen Jnr.

After more than 27 years of connecting passengers with Great Keppel Island, Freedom Fast Cats is entering a new chapter.

Our Great Keppel Island ferry transfers and tours are now operated by Keppel Ferry Co.

Freedom Fast Cats will now focus on commercial passenger vessel charter and leasing, with vessels available for operations throughout Queensland and Australia-wide.