RealNZ's Fiordland Navigator will now remain out of service until surveyors have deem the vessel safe and compliant.

This follows the tourist vessels grounding at 6.15pm yesterday (24 Jan) at Crooked Arm in Doubtful Sound, prompting the captain to issue a mayday call.

Fifty seven passengers were subsequent evacuated by 2 fishing boats that responded to the call.

RealNZ Acting CEO Paul Norris said the vessel had returned to Deep Cove in the early hours of this morning (25 Jan), where commercial divers conducted an underwater assessment of the vessel.

"We are awaiting details of this assessment so that we, and our vessel surveyor, can determine what repairs need to be undertaken to restore the watertight integrity of the vessel."

"The Navigator will remain out of service until both RealNZ and our surveyor are satisfied she is safe and fully compliant – this will be for at least the next few days," Norris said.

Maritime NZ has today launched an investigation into the incident.

Norris said that RealNZ is cooperating fully with relevant agencies to investigate the cause of the incident, alongside its own company investigation. 

"We are continuing to support all involved. All evacuated guests were accommodated in Te Anau last night. They were met by RealNZ representatives to assist with ongoing arrangements, and any extra advice and support we could provide." 

Our crew returned to Manapouri at midday today (25 Jan), and have also been offered support by the company, as and if required, Norris said.

He said guests who are booked onto the Navigator’s overnight Doubtful Sound experience during the repair timeframe would be contacted to find a solution for rebooking or refunding.