Navy (18 months) arrived earlier this month aboard his skipper Francis Tolan's damaged yacht Alizes II, which blew out three sails and hit rocks partway through a solo round-the-world voyage before limping into the harbour requiring urgent repairs.
Upon arrival, Navy was locked up in a cage by Ministry for Primary Industries staff who had got wind of the feline crew of one, before he was transferred to a secure quarantine facility in Dunedin as the yacht was repaired at Careys Bay.
Mr Tolan's arrival was preceded by that of his friend and fellow solo sailor Fanch Guillon, who berthed at Otago Yacht Club late last month.
The Frenchmen are taking part in the inaugural La Longue Route voyage, organised to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their countryman Bernard Moitessier beginning the 1968 Golden Globe Race, the first solo non-stop round-the-world yacht race.
Repairs completed, both yachtsmen set sail from Otago Harbour yesterday afternoon.
Mr Guillon reflected warmly on their unscheduled stop in Dunedin.
He lamented that he did not get time to see more of the region, but said he hoped to one day return.
