Reasons Why You'll keep on Coming Back at The Rock New Zealand
Date: December 26, 2019
Passengers: 36
Skipper: Jonny
Weather: A little chop, overcast with a surprising swell at Tapeka (long period)
Crew: Nicole, Sierra, and Stephen
Wind: N sea breezes, settled to S overnight
Overnight Anchorage: Electric Bay
Snorkel Spot: Palm Beach
Island Visit: Roberton Island
Wildlife: Snappers, Kina, Penguin
Skipper's report:
A really pleasant cruise, with quite a few guests — all a very young crowd, well under 30, apart from Robin, Karlene and their son Rowan at 3.5 years. It was the first cruise in a while that really felt 'full', not in a bad way at all, but for us internally it creates a peace and vibe which feels good.
Beautiful weather in the Bay of Islands. The Rock NZ served the freshest local seafood possible. An experience to be the highlight of guests' holidays — surely keeping them coming back for more. Extensive fresh seafood selection, plus plenty of options for non-seafood eaters. A small bar upstairs gave guests a designated place to enjoy a beer while waiting on their fish to be cut.
Activities on day two: kayaking, snorkelling, dusk fishing, target shooting, island walk, and paddle-boarding — all gear provided by crew. Highlight of the day: Blue Penguins dotted around, plus a few diving gannets — first gannets sighted in months. The Little Blue Penguins (Korora) mostly nestle in the offshore islands. An informative, fun and exhilarating face-to-face encounter with our feathered friends.
Guests kayaked, paddle-boarded, and snorkelled in crystal-clear waters, then hiked to the top of Roberton Island. The family with young Rowan were particularly appreciative of how well the whole crew ensured they and their child felt included and engaged. "The whole cruise had a vibrant edge, but never a party — just full of life."
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Source: Rock the Boat NZ | rocktheboat.co.nz