Media Release
Exclusive Cruise in NZ’s
Bay of Islands
Grand Pacific Tours, the New Zealand Luxury Coach Holiday specialist, recently hosted a group of key
Travel Agents and clients at the launching and first sailing of the new Catamaran, Ipipiri in New
Zealand’s Bay of Islands.
The vessel was built by Richard Devine Marine Constructions and will be operated by Fullers GreatSights
Bay of Islands. The two day, one night cruise through the historic Bay of Islands will showcase the past
and the present of New Zealand's finest sub tropical and maritime destination.
The Name Ipipiri (E-pip-e-rey) is the original Maori name for the Bay of Islands, and means to ‘raft up’ or
to ‘bring together’.
This scared Maori name for the Bay of Islands was gifted to Fullers GreatSights for use on this Overnight
Cruise vessel by the Tangata Whenua of Patu keha and Ngati Kuta, the two hapu (sub-tribe) in whose
tribal area the vessel will spend most of its time.
Departing daily at 1.00pm and returning at 10.00am the following morning, each cruise will include full
commentary on the history, environment and some of the Bay of Islands most spectacular landmarks.
From Kupe, the very first voyager and Maori to discover New Zealand over 1,000 years ago, to the
signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840, Northland brings together the unique culture and history of
the original Maori and European settlers of New Zealand.
With some of the warmest waters in New Zealand the Bay of Islands is home to an abundance of marine
life which features dolphins, whales, seals and penguins.
Grand Pacific Tours has been given the exclusive right to incorporate the vessel in a tour series from
Australia. The overnight cruise is part of the 19 Day Rail-Coach Holiday to New Zealand, with numerous
departures throughout 2009 & 2010. The tour includes 5 breathtaking rail journeys, the overnight cruise
aboard Ipipiri and an additional 3 cruises.
Vessel Information
Ipipiri, at 46 metres is the largest cruising ship permanently based in New Zealand, and provides a truly
impressive cruise experience in one of the most spectacular regions of New Zealand. Spread over four
levels this catamaran includes 30 king state room a spacious sundeck with 360 degree views and a 70-
seat restaurant and bar. Cruising at 12 knots through the sheltered waters of the Bay of Islands, the
vessel has been designed to provide maximum stability and minimum wake.
The King State Room
Ipipiri features 30 identical king state rooms, spread over two decks. All state rooms include a full sized
ensuite and panoramic sea views.
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For more information or images contact:
Mark R. Windsor
Director - Sales & Marketing
Grand Pacific Tours
Direct: (03) 9377 5029
Toll Free : 1800 622 768
Email: mark@grandpacifictours.com.au
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