The modern and powerful Taranui is fitted with a galley, barbecue and shower. Taranui is the Maori name for the Caspian tern, guests might spot some of the seabirds on the cruise. Taranui is an 11 meter, semi displacement, power catamaran. Passengers board at Stephens Bay and are treated to a leisurely cruise around the headland to Split Apple Rock, from where shags may be seen drying their wings on warm rocks after their fishing expeditions. Taranui's cruise itinerary is flexible and passengers will be taken to view specific marine activity such as dolphins riding the bow wave or New Zealand fur seals fishing. If there's a particular bay or park passengers would like to see, they should inform the skipper who will do his best to accommodate requests. After viewing the seals, a light lunch is served in a sheltered bay. A delicious platter style lunch with fresh local ingredients is provided and local beer and wine are included. Advance notice of any special dietary requirements would be appreciated. After lunch, passengers may swim, sea kayak, go ashore for a bush walk, or just relax on Taranui. Lunch, sunscreen, sea kayaks, snorkelling and lifejackets are provided. Passengers need to bring their own camera, hat, sunglasses, warm jacket (just in case) and swimming gear. For those intending to hike the Abel Tasman Coastal Track, sturdy footwear is recommended.
Important Tour Details:
Departs/ Finishes: Stephens Bay, Kaiteriteri (Abel Tasman NP). Phone: 0800 223 522.
Check-in: 15 minutes prior departure.
Length of tour: allow 6 hours.
How to get there: The boat named 'Taranui', is a stable, spacious power cat. It's moored at Stephens Bay, a scenic 15 minute drive from Motueka, before you reach Kaiteriteri. Follow the main road out of Motueka and through Riwaka. Then follow the signs to Kaiteriteri. Stephens Bay is signposted on the right. Follow Stephens Bay Road to the end where there's plenty of room to park.
What to bring: Backpack or bag, camera, rain jacket, required medication, insect repellent, sun glasses, sun screen, sun hat, swim suit, towel, sandals, warm top.
What is provided: Safety briefing, Qualified Guide, Specialised tour equipment, First Aid Kit, Afternoon Tea, Lunch.
Group size: 11 passengers for the shared trip (not for private bookings).
Notes: It is important to let you know that the Abel Tasman National Park has no jetty’s and they will need to remove their shoes to get on and off beaches. The boats are accessible to most people. One step from the beach onto the tender and then again from the tender onto the boarding platform of the boat. Please let us know if you have mobility issues so that we can discuss which trips are suitable for you.