Overview

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A day cruise designed for both nature lovers and those wanting to see all the highlights of the magnificent Bay of Islands in one day. This day trip is the most extensive historical cruise offered in the Bay of Islands.

Island deliveries - This cruise follows the path of the original 1927 'Cream Trip' and will take you on a journey past the secluded islands of the Bay, delivering essential supplies and mail to island residents. This is an opportunity for you to see many of the inhabited islands and stunning homes upclose.

Dolphin viewing and swimming with the dolphins - See dolphins in their natural environment and if conditions are suitable, try swimming alongside these inquisitive creatures - a once in a lifetime experience. Alternatively try boom-netting.

Natural wonder and spectacular scenery - On arrival at Cape Brett Lighthouse, the farthest post of the 'original' mail deliveries, we will take you through the stunning Hole in the Rock at Cape Brett (conditions permitting). Take in the majestic Grand Cathedral Cave before heading back into the sheltered waters of the Bay. Your journey also includes a visit to the Black Rocks, Marsden Cross (where in 1814 the first Christian sermon was held in NZ). While we stop for lunch, enjoy the opportunity to visit an island. Relax on the sandy beach or take a short walk.

Highlights Include:

Follow the original Cream Trip route Dolphin viewing and swimming Spacious viewing decks Boom-Netting

Visit Marsden Cross & The Black Rocks Island Deliveries Island visit Informative Historical Commentary

Dolphin swimming: If you would like a specialised dolphin swimming cruise, it is recommended that you purchase the 'Dolphin Eco Encounter' half day dolphin cruise.

Price and Departure

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Prices: Adult NZ $99.00 Child NZ $49.50
To swim with Dolphins pay an additional $30 per person
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Departures: Paihia 9:30 am Russell 9:40 am
Returns: Paihia 4:15am Russell 4:05 pm
from 26 September 2009 to 30 April 2010

Departure Points: Paihia - the wharf next to the Maritime Building waterfront
Russell - the wharf waterfront

Reporting time: 15 minutes prior to departure

Durations: Full day approx. 6.5 hour cruise including Island stopover

Refreshments: Hot and cold drinks and light snacks are available for purchase on board. There is an option to pre-order a picnic lunch for $16 per person. (NB: pre-orders must be received by 6pm the day before travel. Alternatively bring a packed lunch).

Equipment: Dolphin swimming option - wetsuits and snorkelling gear are supplied on board.

Commentary: A full commentary is provided in English by the skipper and crew. Printed guide sheets are available in German, Japanese and Mandarin.

What to bring: Sunhat, sunblock, camera, walking shoes, jacket and lunch (if you are not pre-ordering). If you are planning to swim with the dolphins, please bring a towel an wear your swimsuit under your clothes for convenient changing.

Dolphin swimming guarantee: Should conditions prevent us from swimming with dolphins, a swim refund of $30 will be offered to those passengers who have paid to swim. This will be refunded at the Paihia or Russell sales office.

NOTE:

• Prices stated above are in NZ dollars
• Departures and itineraries are subject to availability and weather conditions
• Children’s fares - 14 years and under
  Infants - 5 years and under. No charge applies when not occupying a seat
  (this excludes Dolphin Adventures where a child fare applies)
• Entry fees and meals are not included except where stated
• Non-smoking on board Fullers vessels or coaches