Safety and guest comfort are extremely important to us. please get in touch with us if you have any additional requirements.
About The Boat:
The winery boat was built in 2008 and originally imported from the United States. It began its working life in New Zealand as a trout-fishing tour boat on Lake Rotorua. It was later relocated to Auckland, where it was used as an America’s Cup chase boat and afterwards operated some small harbour tours.
Now it has been brought back into commercial service for our winery tours on Lake Dunstan.
Design and Comfort:
I chose this particular boat because it suits my operation perfectly. Designed for comfort, socialising and lake use it is quite literally the perfect boat for the job. It’s pontoon design is extremely safe, featuring two pontoons with 3 internal compartments. The seats are so comfortable I have had people trying hard not to let themselves nod off so they can enjoy the views. This style of boat is especially popular on the lakes of the United States and Canada.
Life Jackets and Lake Safety:
We carry sufficient lifejackets for everyone on board, including appropriately sized lifejackets for children and infants. Lifejackets are not required to be worn on the cruise, but they are readily available should an emergency arise.
The vessel is operated by a licensed skipper who holds a Maritime New Zealand Skipper Restricted Limits qualification, and the operation complies with all the applicable Maritime New Zealand requirements.
Accessibility and Limited Mobility:
We have successfully carried guests who use walking sticks or require some assistance with their mobility. However, boarding the vessel does require passengers to step on and off the boat, and some of our winery tour itineraries also include short walks between the landing areas and the winery cellar doors.
For this reason, the experience may not be suitable for someone who relies on a wheelchair or has significant mobility limitations. We are always happy to discuss an individual guest’s requirements in advance and provide an honest assessment of whether the tour will be appropriate for them.
Shade / Rain Protection:
The boat is equipped with a overhead canopy to shield from the sun or rain when needed. However if there is heavy rain in the forecast we may look to reschedule or postpone. We always recommend bringing a hat and 50+ sunscreen as you will be spending the day outside and reflections / glare from the water can cause sunburn.
Children and Infants:
Children are not usually included on our standard scheduled winery cruises. However, we can accommodate children and infants on private charters, scenic boat tours, or through prior arrangement. Appropriate lifejackets are available for children and infants on board.
