Know the Gulf better with Coastguard's education cruises

This summer boaties have the opportunity to learn more about popular anchorage spots in the Hauraki Gulf with Coastguard Northern Region’s well-received education cruises.

The evening cruises highlight Waiheke Island, the Coromandel, Mahurangi and Kawau, providing boating enthusiasts with valuable information for the coming season. The cruises also outline the interesting local history and some of the fun recreational opportunities on offer such as walking tracks and prime fishing and diving locations. Joining the experienced Coastguard commentary team this year is well known fishing author and columnist Bruce Duncan, who will be assisting with the fishing and diving aspects.

Coastguard Northern Region’s Maritime School Education Manager, Darren Arthur, says the cruises have run for over 20 years and are just one way that Coastguard educates boaties about the importance of water safety.

“The cruises provide us with a great opportunity to showcase some of the best spots in the Hauraki Gulf as well as give some tips on how they can make the most of these holiday hot spots.

“Although we like to make these cruises interesting and fun, safety is always top of the agenda so taking boating enthusiasts through practical safety tips and alerting them to the hazards in these areas is key.”

The first cruise heads out to Waiheke and the Coromandel on November 27 followed by the cruise to Mahurangi and Kawau which takes place on December 4.

All cruises, which are held aboard a Fullers Ferry, will board at the Fullers Ferry Downtown Terminal at 5:00pm with a departure time of 5.30pm and an approximate return time of 10:00pm.

Fees for the courses start at $60.00, however, Coastguard members can participate for a discounted price.

To ensure that boaties are armed with as much knowledge as possible this summer, charts and reference books of the areas we visit will be available for purchase on the day.

An onboard BBQ will also be available with money raised going to Coastguard’s fundraising efforts. 

For more information on the cruises and bookings, visit www.coastguard.org.nz.