Monday, August 10, 2009

New Bay of Islands overnight small cruise ship in the water

Ed's Note: Let's Travel will be onboard in the next couple of weeks ... check the printed mag for full coverage!

Fullers GreatSights Bay of Islands’ latest vessel, Ipipiri, is now afloat in waters near Hobart with the final stages of construction will be completed by the middle of August. New Zealand’s newest overnight cruise ship will then set sail to her new home in the pristine waters of Opua in the Bay of Islands.

The 46 metre Ipipiri is due to arrive by the end of August. So far, the vessel has taken more than 50,000 man hours to complete and contains more than 75 tonnes of aluminium in its structure alone.

Ipipiri displaces approximately 319 tonnes when it has a full load of fuel, fresh water, stores, and a weight allowance for 60 passengers and nine crew.

Charles Parker, General Manager Bay of Islands at InterCity Group (NZ) Ltd, the company who commissioned the vessel, has said that Ipipiri’s arrival is the cause of great excitement locally.

“The team is very excited about clapping eyes on Ipipiri and putting on the final touches as it’s been a project that’s been in the making for four years. We’re even more excited about hosting local and international tourists for an experience that showcases much of what the Bay of Islands has to offer in a new and special way.”

Ipipiri will feature a spacious sundeck, a 70 seat indoor/outdoor restaurant and bar area capable of hosting up to 110 people for cocktail functions or presentations. The lower decks will house 30 deluxe cabins, each with a king sized bed, a private ensuite and unobstructed panoramic sea views.

Full of history and natural beauty, the Bay of Islands is the perfect destination to enjoy an indulgent weekend escape, and with the arrival of Ipipiri, passengers can spend a special night on its sheltered waters, starting from October 2009.

As well as being a fantastic tourist venture, Ipipiri will also be available to hire exclusively for events, conferences and weddings.

“Ipipiri will offer a unique alternative for conferences, board meetings or product launches,” explains Parker. “Ipipiri will be ideal for an unforgettable incentive activity, stimulating team building challenge, or an exclusive venue to host an event.”

To celebrate Ipipiri’s arrival, Fullers GreatSights Bay of Islands is offering a special launch rate of $199 per person, twin share, for people who book before 25 November for travel prior to the 20 of December.

“The Bay of Islands is a stunning place to visit and the best way to see the area is by water,” says Parker. “It’s only a three hour drive or 40 minute flight from Auckland.” A coach/cruise/coach tour option is also available ex-Auckland with GreatSights.co.nz.

Fullers GreatSights Bay of Islands offers the most comprehensive range of marine and land experiences within Northland, with a large fleet of modern vessels and coaches for hire.

For more information, please visit www.overnightcruise.co.nz or www.GreatSights.co.nz




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