OVERNIGHT CRUISES, BAY OF ISLANDS
Ipipiri is the newest addition to the Fullers GreatSights Bay of Islands fleet and offers a unique overnight cruise that will immerse you in the breathtaking beauty of the Bay of Islands. Learn about the region's historical and cultural significance as you journey back to the birthplace of New Zealand. Try snorkelling or kayaking in the clear waters before relaxing with a refreshing drink on the top deck as the sun sets behind the sheltered islands of the Bay. Join the crew of the Ipipiri for an unforgettable overnight cruise.
Departing daily at 1.00pm (check-in at 12.30pm) your overnight experience will include:
- Accommodation for the evening in one of our 30 ocean view cabins, all with private ensuites and uninterrupted sea views
- A three course buffet dinner and a full cooked breakfast, featuring local produce
- Complimentary afternoon activities at one of our favourite sheltered bays include snorkelling, kayaking and nature walks
- Interactive onboard commentary exploring the history, wild life and ecology of the Bay of Islands
- Extensive viewing decks, including a large rooftop sundeck
| Season | Twin | Single | Child |
| Oct 01 - Jan 31 2010 | $299 | $539 | $149 |
| Feb 01 - Apr 30 2010 | $339 | $599 | $169 |
Cruises will suit independent and group travellers from New Zealand and countries around the world. GreatSights is part of InterCity Group which also includes GreatSights Bay of Islands, awesomeNZ and InterCity Coachlines. Between InterCity and GreatSights the two coach companies operate up to 600 seats a day between Auckland and the Bay of Islands and will provide daily transport to and from Auckland for the overnight cruises. GreatSights also operates half and full day tours and cruises from Paihia including a Dolphin Cruise to Cape Brett, The Original Cream Trip and Discover Cape Reinga.
Ipipiri
With over 123 years of local knowledge and experience, our passionate crew is looking forward to sharing with you the breathtaking and historical region that is the Bay of Islands. Your overnight cruise will take you back to the roots of New Zealand human history. Northland (Te Tai Tokerau), is regarded as the birthplace of New Zealand.
Your cruise will follow this historical and cultural path from the arrival of Maori and Europeans to the region, to the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840 between Maori and the British Crown.
With 144 islands and abundant marine and bird life, the Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s finest sub-tropical maritime parks - stunning during the day, and unforgettable at night.
Premium Design
The new small ship will feature 30 identical ocean view cabins, spread over two decks. All rooms will include full sized ensuites and sea views so that passengers can watch the sun rise and set from the privacy of their cabins. The ocean view cabins can easily be converted to twin singles. Two other decks will include a spacious sundeck and a 70-seat restaurant with indoor/outdoor dining and a bar. When the ship anchors at sea, the onboard tender (a small run-about) will ferry passengers to and from nearby islands to enjoy activities like snorkelling, swimming and kayaking. The crew will help visitors with local information and provide interpretation of the many legends and stories unique to this area. The catamaran will cruise at 12 knots providing maximum stability and minimum wake. At 46 metres (around 150 feet) long and a hull depth of 1.4 metres this new small ship will provide a truly impressive cruise experience in one of the most spectacular regions of New Zealand.
Key information
- Overnight Cruise aboard Ipipiri
- Price includes homemade muffin plus tea/coffee on arrival, full buffet dinner tasting local Northland cuisine and country breakfast
- Complimentary tea/coffee throughout cruise
- 30 ocean view cabins spread over two decks, all with oversized exterior windows for maximum views
- Each room includes full-sized ensuites
- Rooftop
- 70 seat restaurant with indoor/outdoor dining and bar
- Snorkeling and kayaking gear complimentary
Snorkelling and kayaking equipment available to explore the sheltered bay. Optional fishing and guided walks available
Conferences with a difference
The small ship is designed to double as a self-contained, floating conference facility with the restaurant and bar area capable of being converted to a conference room accommodating up to 110 people (theatre/cocktail style). As well as hosting conferences and special events in the Bay of Islands, the small ship will be available to sail to different parts of New Zealand offering marine-based conference accommodation, catering and presentation spaces, during off peak seasons.
The restaurant and bar area can be configured into theatre, cocktail, banquet, classroom style.
