In this issue:
Cruise the SW Pacific in 2025
South Island Rally
Upcoming Events
Crew Wanted!
Lots of Boats For Sale
Sailing Society Pages
Boating Etiquette
Biosecurity Update
Project X - OpenCPN solutions
CRUISE NEWS
Photo by Viki Moore
In this issue
January 2025
Lots of Awesome Boats for Sale
Caulerpa Restrictions on Waiheke
From the Helm
The latest update from Viki
Pacific Rally 2025 Join US!
Upcoming Events
Boating Etiquette
ask our Pirate panelist your curly questions
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From the Helm
Happy New Year everyone! Thank you so much for all your support throughout 2024, we had a fantastic year, our biggest Pacific Rally yet, the integration of the Down Under Rally & Island Cruising, lots of wonderful business partners, heaps of new members and some fabulous events and adventures in the Islands.
2025 is shaping up to be another excellent year If your New Years Resolution was to make 2025 the best year of your life yet, then I encourage you to join us on the Pacific Rally! Whether it is bringing your own boat, or joining our CrewSeeker service, we can help you make your sailing dreams come true in 2025!
We will ensure you are fully up to speed with all the regulations, have your boat set up safely, help you find some keen crew, connect you with everyone else heading the same direction, get you access to some fabulous events & discounts from our partners and ensure you see all the best sights along the way.
Cecile & Gemma have been busy in Australia & Whangārei, connecting up with our marine business partners, members and other cruisers.
We are excited to welcome Seaspark Electrical to our growing community this month! If you need electrical work done on the Gold Coast - Ty & team are the ones to chat to at SeaSpark and you can read more
` about what they have to offer later in the newsletter
It was very sad to hear of the recent tragic incidents in the Sydney Hobart Race and my heart also goes out to all our friends in Vanuatu who have been affected by the recent earthquake
I’ve heard from the team at Yachting World in Port Vila, Vanuatu Tourism and our other partners and they are all safe and said they’ll definitely be back up and running in time for everyone sailing to Vanuatu next season.
They’ve had a tough time in Vanuatu in recent years, recently with the local airline collapsing, and now this event, their tourism businesses would LOVE sailors to go visit. With such stunning cruising destinations, friendly people and a diverse and interesting culture and lots of fabulous events to attend, it really is a place you shouldn’t miss on your South Pacific adventures
Our South Island Rally is now underway with a number of yachts already exploring the delights of the Marlborough Sounds and others still waiting for a suitable weather window to make the passage south. Timing is everything when sailing in this part of the world. We also have a number of Australian boats making the leap across the Tasman to join the South Island Rally over summer before they join us to head up to the Pacific.
We’ve now got 110 boats registered for the Pacific Rally - with a mixture of yachts & power boats joining us from Australia, New Zealand and boats already up in the Pacific, there are lots of young families too, we’ve got a great group coming together.
There is still a common mis-conception that joining a rally means you have to sail with a group from one place to the next This is certainly not the case with the Pacific Rally You can choose to sail with our main group departures on the ocean crossings if you wish, but you are also free to choose your own dates & destinations. We include everything you need to know to sail your choice of islands in the SW Pacific - Tonga, Fiji, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Australia & New Zealand and support to help you get prepared before you set off.
And if you take advantage of all the great discounts we get from our rally partner businessesincluding marinas in the Pacific, chandleries, weather, navigation, cruising guides, training and much more - then it is actually cheaper to join the rally than to try and do it yourself!
You can be as social or as independent as you like and you can tap in to all our knowledge & resources to make your Pacific experience a breeze, and we are always there on standby to assist if things don’t go to plan (and trust me - it happens quite a bit!)
I am looking forward to getting some sailing in myself over the holidays and I hope to see you out on the water! Have fun, stay safe and I hope you enjoy the January edition of Cruise News!
Many thanks
Thank You to All Our Valued Partners
36 Degrees Brokers
All Marine
Australasian Boating Pty Ltd
Australian Boating Supplies
Aquafighter
Bay of Islands Marina & Boat Yard
Boaters World & Rocna Anchors
Book a Buoy
Bundaberg Port Marina
Bundaberg Regional Council
Captains Chandlery
Coastguard Boating Education
DAZMAC
DBY Boat Sales
East Coast Marina
Eco Marine Bedding
Everything Marine
Evolution Sails
Fridgetech
Hydrovane
Lusty & Blundell
Maritime New Zealand
Marsden Cove Marina
Marine Medical Solutions
Nautilus Braids
Nawi Marina
NZ Boat Sales - Multihull Central
Oceania Medical
Oceanflo Desalination
The Yacht Sales Co & Multihull Solutions
Paper Sailors Rock
Peak Marine
Port Denarau Marina
Port Whangārei Marine Centre
PredictWind
R&B Marine
RIB Force Marine Inflatables
Rainman Desalination
RFD Survitec
RIB Force Inflatables
Rivergate Marina
Sail IQ
Scarborough Marina
Seaspark Electrical
Shell Harbour Marina
Skipper Training
Stella Marine
Southern Seas Marine
Sunshine Sailing
Tauranga Bridge Marina
The Boat Works
Port Resolution Yacht Club
Vanuatu Tourism
Vuda Marina
Whangarei Marina
Wynn Fraser
Yacht Delivery Solutions
Yachting World Marina Vanuatu
Yacht Share Mariner
Great Circle Marine
Prop Protector
QLD Surveys / RB Marine
Southern Seas Marine
Sunshine Sailing
The Boat Works
Paradise Taveuni
OC Tenders
Greenskin Wines
Sea Lovers Gin
Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron
NoForeignland
Cruising the Queensland Coast Guide
Ocean Tactics
Savvy Navvy
Iluka Clarence River Marina
Vanuatu Eco Tours
The Navigation Centre
SisterShip Training
Explore Vava'u
Cater Marine
Aquafighter
Exploring Eden Books
Noumea Yacht Club
Viani Bay Resort Fiji
Boat Harbour Marine
Small Vegan Kitchen
Savvy Navvy
Speed Marine New Caledonia
Noumea Yacht Services
Marine Diesel Solutions
Open Ocean Watermakers
Prop Protector
Sea Lovers Gin
AquaFighter
Pacific Cruising Coach - Jon Henry
Helly Hansen
Rocket Guides
Radix Nutrition
The Boat App
Tonga Tourism
New Caledonia Tourism
Lonwolwol Yacht Club
Musket Cove Yacht Club
Noonsite
Seapower
Above & Beyond Boating
Topsail Insurance
Australian Coral Sea Islands Book
Bato Flags
Bloomsbury
Onward Ticket
South Pacific Boat Sales
Viking Explorers Rally
Project X
Yoga for Yachties
SeaGlass Bags
Sistership Training
Women Who Sail Australia
Women Who Sail New Zealand
The Beach Bar
Grotty Yachty
Boating NZ
Gulf Harbour Radio
Passage Guardian
Bob McDavitt
Café Tropicana
Citizens of the Sea
Days For Girls
Sea Mercy
VEPA
Rotary Club
Sea Keepers
Yachting New Zealand
NZ Marine Industry Assn
South Pacific Sailing Network
Seven Seas Cruising Assn
Ocean Cruising Club
Boating Industry Association
Gippsland Lakes Yacht Club
Devonport Yacht Club
Waikawa Boating Club
Port Moselle Marina
Yacht Agents Galapagos
Flair Migration
Opua Business Assn
Small Vegan Kitchen
NZ Customs
RCCNZ & JRCC
Australia Border Force
MPI
Australia Dept of Agriculture, Fisheries & Forestry
Big Mama Yacht Club
Mango Vava’u
Kraken Vava’u
Susui Village Yacht Club
Moala Yacht Club
UNODC
Mobile Marine Electrical Servicing – Gold Coast & Surrounds
At SeaSpark Electrical, we are passionate about keeping your boat’s electrical systems in top condition so you can make the most of your time on the water. Whether it’s a small wiring installation or a complete vessel fit-out, we deliver expert craftsmanship and reliability you can trust.
We take pride in our high standards, offering professional, honest, and dependable service to give you peace of mind while at sea. Our expertise includes custom-designed lithium systems, house monitoring setups, inverter/charger installations, and solar power integration. Our goal is to make your vessel fully self-sufficient and off-grid, providing unparalleled reliability and independence.
Our Services Include:
Custom Electrical Systems
• Lithium Battery Systems
• Monitoring & Charging Solutions
• Inverter/Charger Installations
• Solar Arrays & MPPT Controllers
• DC-DC Chargers
• Vessel AC Upgrades
• Digital VSRs & Battery Monitors
• Full Distribution Systems
Navigation & Communication
• Depth Sounders
• Multifunction Displays (MFDs)
• Radars & Autopilot Controls
• Night Vision Cameras
• Trolling Motors
• Sonar Systems
• VHF & HF Radios
• Networking (NMEA), Wi-Fi, 4G/5G Boosters
• Satellite Phones
Lighting Installations
• Underwater & Under Gunnel LED Lighting
• Courtesy, Exterior, and Interior Lighting
• Navigation Lights
• Spotlights, Floodlights, and Light Bars
• Utility and Sports Lighting
Upgrades, Repairs & Custom Fit-Outs
• Full Vessel Rewires
• Dash Tidies & Custom Switch Panels
• Digital Switching Solutions
• Wiring Looms & Fuse Panel Installations
• NMEA Networking
• Fault Diagnosis & Repairs
New Boat Fit-Outs
• House Monitoring Systems
• Solar Power Integration
• Custom Designs Tailored to Your Needs
Join us to achieve your sailing dreams in 2025!
dates & destinations
Yachts and Powerboats welcome
Choose from Tonga, Fiji, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, New Zealand or Australia
Why Join A Rally?
Comprehensive pre-departure training to help get you, your crew and your vessel prepared for the adventures of a lifetime.
Guidance for NZ vessels going through the International Voyage Certificate process (formerly Cat 1) Fabulous discounts from our generous partner businesses - enabling you to save lots of $$ during your preparations and during your voyage. In fact, if you take advantage of all the great deals, you can quickly recoup your rally entry fee!
Connection with all the others heading in your direction - a safe, social and supportive community. Flexible dates & destinations - cruise with the group or do your own thing - the choice is yours.
Fun social events along the way & the opportunity to volunteer in our community, environmental & citizen science projects if you wish
Weather Routing on the group departures on the main ocean crossings
A detailed 200+ page Rally Guide book giving you tips on all our favourite anchorages, places to visit, cultural considerations, marine services, and everything you need to know along the way
All the paperwork and advice on the formalities & regulations for entering and departing each country
A weekly newsletter with all the latest news and updates along the way Support & advice if things go wrong.
Just NZD$1795.00 per vessel - click here for all the details
Our comprehensive pre-departure training is currently underway. Register now to help get you, your crew and your vessel well prepared for the adventure of a lifetime!
Vessel Manual - A printed manual to help you record all the details of your vessel and safety equipment on board and a comprehensive checklist and a webinar with Maritime NZ to help you get through the International Voyage Certificate regulations (formerly Cat 1 and only required if you are an NZ registered vessel)
An invitation to join our Pacific Rally 2025 WhatsApp Group You will also find sub-groups inside the main community where you can ask questions, share ideas chat about technology, connect with the other boats and families
Module on Preparing the Vessel - we talk through some of the common issues, and things you can do to help avoid them on your boat as well as a template you can use to create your Standard & Emergency Operating procedures manual (a requirement of the IVC).
Module on Preparing the Crew - we show you how to prepare a sailing CV which is useful for both your Insurance company and for NZ registered boats to show their assessor. We also detail some great discounts you can get with our various suppliers on some extra training and we can help match you up with crew via our CrewSeeker Service.
Module on Documentation & Administration - we work through all the paperwork required for going offshore, passports, boat registration, filing systems, insurance, vessel details & crew list template and more As well as all the info Australian vessels need for their export & importation process
Module on Communications - we take a closer look at satellite & radio communications and ways of keeping in touch when you head offshore
Module on Navigation - detailing all the charts and various navigation tools out there, including some great discounts on navigation training for those who need to brush up their skills before heading offshore.
Coming up!: Destinations - details of all the great places to visit along the way in Minerva, Tonga, Fiji, Vanuatu & New Caledonia with dedicated webinars on each destination, we will also have a Module on Weather, Passage Planning, Formalities and more! All the content is recorded so you can join any time and catch up.
Check out all the other rally inclusions here
Register
Rally 2025
Oceanflo’s unique pump design combines the reliability and simplicity of piston pumps with the efficiency of energy recovery systems which results in the following advantages
-World leading efficiency
-High reliability
-Minimal moving parts and the easiest seal replacement on the market
-A low operating speed maximizing service life
-Small footprint size
-Low noise and vibration
-Eliminates the need for high pressure boost pumps as with existing energy recovery systems which often is the point of failure.
-Self-regulating pressure automatically adjusts to sea water changes and variations
Controlled Area Notice in place at Waiheke Island
New biosecurity controls are in place over an area of Waiheke Island waters to prevent the spread of the invasive seaweed exotic caulerpa The controlled area notice (CAN) comes into force at midnight 16 December 24 and sets legal requirements for some fishing and boating activities in an area around Thompson’s Point and across Onetangi Bay This is the area of Waiheke Island where exotic caulerpa has been found
Within this zone people will still be able to anchor but must follow equipment cleaning directions before they leave the controlled area
The law requires boaties to check their anchor, anchor chain and any equipment used in the water for attached seaweed or plant material. This includes, for example, diving and fishing gear, wetsuits and fins.
Any seaweed found must be removed, bagged or securely contained, and taken ashore for disposal in a rubbish bin. If secure containment isn’t possible, it can be put back into the waters it came from. The important thing is that it is not taken to other waters outside the controlled area. The equipment should be washed down with fresh or seawater and, where possible, left to dry before being used in another area.
Launching vessels, including amphibious Sealegs-type craft is permitted, as is motoring or sailing through the waters of the controlled area.
The controls at Waiheke are not as restrictive as those for the Aotea and Te Rāwhiti CAN zones because the caulerpa is less dense at Waiheke
Fiji Vessel Maximum Stay Changes
Pre-COVID, the maximum amount of time that yachts were permitted to stay in Fiji was 18 months with a 6 months extension by application.
During COVID - in 2021, the time limit was extended to 54 months - before they'd have to import the boat into Fiji.
In June this year, an act was passed in parliament that said that the time limit was reduced back to the original 24 month maximum stay.
What was not clear, was how this change was going to come in to force and how it would affect the vessels who had arrived into Fiji prior to the law being changed. It was difficult to get a straight & consistent answer from the various officials we’d asked, so I went on a mission to find out one way or another!
To read more about the outcome from this question, and to support the advocacy work that we do to help all cruisers around the South West Pacific, you can join Island Cruising as a member, or if you are already a member login to the members area of the website to read the email chain
Sort out your Sails!
I am sure many of you have pre-loved sails cluttering up a corner of your garage, perhaps you ’ ve just got a new sail and don’t have space on board to keep the old one as a spare or perhaps you are looking for a second hand sail to help you get away on some adventures. Meet Sailbrokers!
Sailbrokers is owned by Dave Aarons and Tracey Silcock They spent 4 years sailing their catamaran back to N Z from the USA, via all the usual tropical stop off points en route Dave has been racing and cruising for the last 40 years on many classes, and has been competing for the last 25 years in the A-class catamarans. Tracey is newer to sailing, but having lived full time on the boat for 4 years, has a great understanding of yachting.
Sailbrokers provides an outlet for recycling used sails, giving all sailors access to reasonably priced replacements, thereby helping to promote yachting in New Zealand as an affordable past-time
Sailbrokers is based on the Coromandel Peninsula at Whenuakite, and aims to ensure a seamless service for people all around the country. They measure and evaluate each and every sail as it comes in and store and list them for sale on the owner's behalf. If the sail has a rust spot, they will note it. Patches and restitching are also noted. They want you to know what the sails look like, so you are not surprised when you get them. If requested they will photograph the sail so as to expose any area of interest. Just ask!
Looking through the sail database is quick and easy - first choose what type of sail you are looking for (eg Mainsail, Headsail, Spinnaker, Small Boats, Covers, Tents or Sail bags), scroll to find the size range you are interested in (all sails are measured in feet and inches), this will bring up a brief description of the sails they have in that size range. If you see a sail that interests you then go to the Contacts page and quote the code number and reference number and send them an email or phone your enquiry.
If you see a sail on the database that you really like, but it's not quite perfect, they can refer you to experienced sailmakers who can alter a sail to better suit your needs Please keep in mind that a sail can only be shortened about 10% of its length.
If, for any reason, you are not satisfied with the sail you can return it within 7 days of receipt and they will refund 100% of the price of the sail.
So take the time to have a clear out of all the sails you no longer use! Convert your old sails into cash to purchase new ones from SailIQ and Evolution Sails, or check to see if they have any second hand sails that might fit your boat Your sails might help get someone else out on the water and give you some extra space in your garage and some more pennies in your boating piggy bank.
Wynn Fraser stock a full range of all marine paint supplies, application products and accessories.
Our marine experts have been supplying exceptional advice and support to the local marine industry for 70 years.
Allan Gray has over 10 years' marine industry experience. Allan has excellent product knowledge across our extensive range and can be relied upon to give the best advice possible He is our in house 'Marine Expert', and available to recommend the most appropriate coating systems based on your unique requirements.
We are exclusive distributors of leading global paint systems, allowing us to provide tailor-made specification services, unique to your situation, that ensure you're using the right product and system in the correct way for the best results. Our marine experts will come to you, and provide advice and support for everything from preparation through to finishing.
Our marine product range includes construction adhesives, filler and resins, fibreglass cloths and chopped strand matting, paints, anti-foul, cleaners and polishers and all necessary safety equipment to keep you and your team safe and healthy.
We provide products and advice to boat builders and professional and industrial marine painters as well as those with a DIY project.
Call 0800 499 663 or shop online on our website.
Island Cruising members - open an account and spend $100 or more and get a $5000 voucher to spend on your next purchase in the shop Show your member card in store for more details (Conditions Apply)
UPCOMING EVENTS
Auckland
Thursday 23 Januarybar open from 5pm, talk starts at 7.30pm
All welcome
Australia Day Harbour Parade
Registrations now open for 2025!
Sydney Harbour is the place to be on January 26 with the exciting new Australia Day Harbourfest program offering an abundance of free and fun events for all to enjoy across sea, shore and sky
The Harbour Parade is ‘fashions on the field’, but for boats and their crews as they don their finest and most flamboyant Australia Day-themed decorations to parade through the waves in a dazzling display of national spirit.
All vessels, regardless of size or shape, are invited to dress their decks and be part of the annual flotilla
Prizes will be awarded to the winning vessel in each of the following categories:
Budgie Smuggler Award Best Small Vessel
Best in the Biz Award Best Commercial Vessel
Hello Sailor! Award Best Newcomer
The Captain’s Choice Award Best Dressed
Going Overboard Award Most Imaginative
All participating vessels will also have access to front-row Harbour views to catch all the exciting action of the thrilling Ferrython race.
Want to take part in the 2025 Harbour Parade? Register today!
22February2025 08:30-17:00
Thiscoursewillrunforonefullday8:30-5pm. Linkstopre-readingwillbesenttoyoupriortothecourse. EnrolmentsforthiscoursewillcloseMonday17February2025.
Aim:TolearncorrectMF/HF(SSB)radiooperation.
Duration:8Hours.
Qualification:MaritimeRestrictedRadiotelephoneOperatorCertificate(MRROC).
TheminimumrequirementforcommercialoperatorsandusersofMF/HF(SSB)radio.Coversroutineoperation, safety,distress&urgencycallingandalarmsignals.
ThiscourseisacomponentoftheNewZealandCertificateinDomesticMaritimeOperations(RestrictedLimits) (Level4)
Ifyouareinterestedinthiscourseandwouldliketoenrol,pleasecontactusdirectlyon bookings@boatingeducation.org.nzorcalluson0800408090.
SpecialOffer:MRROCandMSROCcombined-only$285forbothhomestudycoursesor$390forMRROC classroomcombinedwithMSROChomestudy.Pleasecontactusbyclickinghereorcalluson0800408090for moreinformationandtoenrolinbothcourses.(Thecombospecialisnotavailablethroughthewebsite). PleasebookonlinedirectlywithCoastguardhere:
https://www.boatingeducation.org.nz/courses/27/maritime-restricted-radiotelephone-operator-certificate/
Unmissable Entertainment
On Saturday night, as part of the Moana Auckland Festival, Six60 will take to the stage for a live concert that’s sure to be a highlight of the weekend! While we can’t take credit for organising the show, our unique location at Jellicoe Wharf puts you just 20 metres away from the action Whether you attend the show or enjoy the concert from the comfort of your boat, it’s the ultimate afterparty to cap off an incredible day
The PIC Harbour Classic is more than just a sailing event it’s a festival, a celebration, and berthing right in Jellicoe wharf puts you in the heart of the action Here’s what’s in store:
A welcome party to kick things off
The exhilarating main race
A prizegiving celebration to wrap it all up
Afterparty on your boats while listening to the Six60 concert (or attend the concert)
Free berthing at Jellicoe Wharf for the entire weekend!
At just $50, entry is accessible to all Plus, $10 from every entry goes directly to your local sailing club And yes, there will be an intense “Battle of the Clubs” for ultimate bragging rights!
Feeder races will be added to the itinerary giving clubs the opportunity to start their own race from their home base and finish off at Jellicoe Wharf on Friday. (We can manage the finish).
Whether you’re racing, cheering, or soaking up the sounds of Six60, the 2025 PIC Harbour Classic promises an unforgettable weekend on and off the water.
�� Save the Date: 28 Feb - 1 Mar 2025
�� Entries opening soon
NOTE: Only boats that enter the race can enter Jellicoe Wharf
Mooring in Jellicoe wharf is a first-come-first basis
Please ensure you tick the mooring box when you enter
New Zealand’s festival on the water is back in 2025
Dates have been released for the Auckland Boat Show in 2025. Bringing a festival on the water to the heart of central Auckland, it will showcase all things boating from 6-9 March.
The Auckland Boat Show, scheduled to run as part of Moana Auckland, New Zealand’s Ocean Festival, is timed to allow boating enthusiasts to enjoy a feast of March marine activities
Making the most of an Auckland summer on the water, the show gathers together 2025’s latest releases from boatbuilders and brokers across New Zealand and the world It’s a show which has become known throughout the region for the spectacular sight of the central city filling with hundreds of boats
The Auckland Boat Show is one of the key events of Moana Auckland and runs after the NZ Millennium Cup superyacht regatta in February to give visitors plenty to enjoy on the water.
A large marina display will spread through Jellicoe Harbour, filling the space outside the former America’s Cup bases with newly-released yachts, motoryachts, multihulls, superyachts, amphibious vessels and trailer boats. On-land exhibits will complement the on-water component of the show, taking up a Viaduct Events Centre spot in central Auckland’s buzzing Wynyard Quarter.
“There’s nothing like an Auckland summer on the water,” says show organiser, Stacey Cook.
“Which is why we stage the show in early March. It’s such a pleasure to showcase New Zealand’s marine industry where it’s at its best; on the water, enjoying the sun and lifestyle that boating brings ”
Uniquely in this part of the world, sea trials are a crucial component of the event With the Waitematā Harbour as the show’s neighbour, manufacturers and brokers are able to demonstrate vessels in their element to buyers, allowing them to bring performance, sea-kindliness and handling to the forefront
For 24 years the Auckland Boat Show has also provided an important stage for regional and international parts and services providers. With a large on-land component of the show, the event has become a launching point each year for annual releases of innovative products and new developments.
Nalawan Festival Vanuatu
Friday 22 AugustSaturday 23 August 2025
Exploring,
Understanding and Sharing the Mesophotic
Ecosystems of the Kermadec Islands
With Victoria University of Wellington
This expedition will explore mesophotic ecosystems in the Kermadec Rangitāhua region, uncovering new species and studying food webs to understand how these habitats function. Using advanced ROVs and photogrammetry, researchers aim to assess how climate change impacts this biodiversity hotspot and inform future conservation efforts. Read more here.
Time of Expedition: May - June 2025
Location of Project: The Kermadec Islands, New Zealand
RestlessM
Reluctantly for sale this 23.6 m Expedition vessel is ‘Expedition Ready’ for her next adventure. was built and launched in Tampa Florida in 1974. Restless M
Initially built as a mother ship to a commercial fishing fleet in the in the Bering Sea, she was converted to to deep sea salvage and was a very successful treasure hunter and features in the book Treasures of the Deep. The current custodians purchased the vessel around 2003 and undertook a complete refurbishment
The entire superstructure was removed and replaced with a Naval Architect designed alloy superstructure.
Restless M can circle the globe with three fuel stops and you don’t need to bring your IT Guru to operate this vessel! The asking price of $2.6 M AUD ($1.65 M USD approx.) is a fraction of the replacement price of this wellmaintained vessel
• Surveyor’s ‘Out of Water’ Report available
• Detailed Specification Report available
Vendors will look at trades of boats, property to lessor value as well as short term vendor finance to approved purchasers.
Claire’s book of their adventures and challenges can be purchased by scanning the QR code.
Claire’s book is titled Who’s in Charge, My Brain or Me? (Or My Wife )
The main goal of the book is to promote awareness of Parkinson’s Disease and to
Scan the QR code to view Restless M’s website listing
Restless M
LOA:Beam: Draft:Air Draft: Displacement
:Fuel:Water: MainEngine: Endurance:
raise funds for future research and to find a cure for this debilitating illness
PD is the fastest growing Neuro disorder in the world and is the reason that Errol & Claire can no longer safely navigate the vessel, so the regretful decision has been made to “Swallow the Anchor”
Scan the QR code to view a video walkthrough of Restless M
Performance evolution
When8-year-oldRodneyKeenanfirstdraggedadinghyoffhisfriendsneighbour’sfrontlawntogosailingforthe firsttimeinAucklandNewZealand,hedidn’tknowitwasthestartofajourneytodevelopthehighestperforming yachtsailsintheworld.Butthatwasmorethanthirtyyearsago.
Rodneylearnedearlythepowerofcustomisationinyachtsailmakingbyhand.Afterleavingschoolhebegan learningeverythingaboutsaildesign,frombuildingandfittingtotestingitoutonthewater.Thereweren’tany plottersorcomputersbackthen,justapairofsimplescissors,itwasthebestwaytolearn.
SincethenRodneyhassailedover150,000oceanmilesonalltypesofyachtincludingalongandvariedhistoryof highlycompetitiveperformancesailing,rangingfromrecordbreakingmulti-hullstoroundtheworldchallenges andAmerica’sCupteams.Hehas17RolexSydneyHobartsunderhisbelt,plusFastnet,Transpacsandahostof othermajoroffshoreraces.
SowhentheEvolutionteamstartedmakingyachtsails,theycombinedtheirextensivesailingexperiencetomake thekindofultra-responsivesailswithwhichtheyenjoysailing.Webelievesailsshouldfitperfectly,bemadefrom thebestmaterialsandthebestdesign.EvolutionSailshasgonetogreatlengthstoinnovateandusethefinest materialsavailabletous.Wealsodevelopedoneofthemostmodernyachtsailmembranefacilities–EM2.We’re proudtomakethefinestqualitymembranesailsmoneycanbuy.
That’swhy45otheryachtsailmakingcompaniesalloverthegloberelyonourNewZealandmadeEM2membrane sailblankstomaketheirsails.We’renowpioneeringnaturalfibers,insanelydurableskinsandmembranesails thatmaketraditionalcruisingsailsathingofthepast.Weputallourexperienceandexpertiseintoeverythingwe make.
Inthe‘cityofsails’–Auckland,youdon’thavetogofartofindtalent.Thereareworldclasssailorseverywhere. We’veemployedthebestsailmakerswecouldfindtodeliverunbeatableservice.Thishasledontoaglobal collaborativenetworkofdesignersandexpertsallovertheworld.Ifsomethingisn’toptimal,theyexperimentand redesignituntilitis.Asaresult,EvolutionSailshasbeenresponsibleforsomeofthemostsuccessfulresultsover thelastdecade.
FromQueenslandtoQuebecandMallorcatoMaryland,therearen’tmanycornersoftheworldyouwon’tfinda presenceofEvolutionSailswithmorethan17lofts,plus45sailmakerpartnershipnetworksandgrowing.
MaybeyourgoalsincludecruisingtheMediterranean,winningSydney/HobartorIRCNationals,BucketRacing, Sportsboatcompetitions,orjustgettingoutonthatweekdaynightracewithyourfriends. Whateveryouhaveplanned,we’dlovetouseourworldbeatingexperiencetohelpyou racefaster,cruisefartherandhavemorefun.That’swhywelistentoyouto findout yourspecificneedstocustomisetheperfectsailsforyouryacht.
Ourethosissimple:Webelievehighperformancestemsfromdoing thebestwecan,usingthebestmaterials,withthebestserviceand thebestdesign.Becausewethinkthat’stherightthingtodo.
The 8th Edition of the Viking Explorers Rally kicks off at Marina Las Palmas, Canary Islands
The Viking Explorers Rally started its 8th edition on Sunday, December 08, 2024, in Marina Las Palmas Since its inception in 2018, the rally has traditionally begun on the second Sunday of December with a blend of seminars and social events.
As usual, the rally was already fully booked with 25 boats early in the year, but after some cancellations and changes the sign up for this year closed with an international fleet of 22 boats, ranging in size from 40 to 66 feet. A diverse crew of 84 sailors representing 22 countries, including the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Portugal, Sweden, United Kingdom, Poland, Philippines, Belgium, Greece, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Sweden, United States, Italy, Canada, Norway, Denmark, Ireland and Lithuania, gathered in the Conference Hall at Club Marítimo Varadero in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands.
Managing Director Oliver Solanas Heinrichs officially welcomed the participants, inviting each crew to take the stage and introduce themselves to their fellow sailors Many had already become acquainted through the rally’s virtual “Online Get-togethers” held in the months leading up to the event The introductions were lively and emotional, setting a warm tone for the rally Carlota Texeira Saavedra, PR and Viking Explorers Europe Manager, handed out the Welcome Packs to the crews Mareike Derks from Seven Star Yacht Transport also extended a welcome on behalf of the company
The first seminar, The Safety Seminar “What If,” focused on safety and marked the beginning of a series of informative sessions planned for the following days This important seminar is based, not only on the World Sailing Offshore Regulations, but also on the information obtained from other sailors throughout the years Other seminars will include Provisioning, Weather and Satellite Communications, among others
Over the next two weeks, participants will enjoy a mix of seminars, social gatherings, dinners, and spontaneous pontoon parties like the one that emerged after the first day of seminars on Sunday, sponsored by Seven Star Yacht Transport.
Following this two-week program, participants will take a Christmas break before reconvening on January 4, 2025, for the important Skippers’ Briefing. At this crucial meeting, the group will decide, in consultation with the organizers, if weather conditions are suitable for departure on January 6. Once underway, the fleet will sail towards Port Louis Marina in Grenada, with an optional stopover in Mindelo, São Vicente, Cape Verde.
The Viking Explorers Rally has quickly become a popular alternative for Atlantic crossings. This non-competitive event spans 2,700 nautical miles from the Canary Islands to Grenada, offering a unique and personal experience for sailors crossing the Atlantic. Limited to 25 boats, the rally prioritizes safety, exceptional service, and fostering camaraderie among participants An exclusive small fleet
For more information, visit the official website: www vikingexplorersrally com
SOCIETY PAGES
South Island Rally
South Island Rally
Jon Henry - Pacific Cruising Coach
‘Here to help you make good cruising decisions’
Heading offshore this season or sometime in the future? Feeling overwhelmed with the preparations or need some extra support? My name is Jon Henry I have over 60,000nm of sailing experience Racing both shorthanded and crewed as skipper in major offshore and coastal yacht races in all types of vessels Cruising from Europe to New Zealand, plus throughout the South Pacific, both as skipper and crew assisting others
I am currently a Yachting New Zealand Safety inspector and have assisted many sailors with preparing their vessels for their offshore voyages. In 2020 I was awarded the “YNZ Official of the Year” for services to sailing.
I can assist in many ways. From selecting the perfect boat, or setting up of your existing vessel. I have many contacts within the NZ marine industry that I can provide to arrange work on your boat, plus contacts that have sailed Asia if that’s your next challenge. All to help you to plan your next adventure.
I charge $1600 00 NZ + GST (if applicable) for up to 12 hours face to face (Auckland region) or online assistance in negotiated sessions Other areas and further assistance by negotiation Island Cruising members get a 10% discount
My services include, but are not limited to:
1 Initial consultation - I will learn more about your vessel, your sailing experience and your sailing goals for the future We will discuss your timeline, whether your vessel is suitable for your needs and create a plan to prepare you, your crew and the vessel for the adventures ahead
2. Vessel Assessment - I will spend time on board going through all your systems and making suggestions on ways you can make the passage easier & safer and all the safety equipment required to meet the IVC standard.
3. Communication - Advice on setting up your onboard communication systems - Starlink, IridiumGO, SSB, Spot tracker, InReach, Datahub, Cellular Router.
4. Documentation - Guidance for vessel registration and inward/outward paperwork along the way & Insurance.
5. Navigation- I can help you formulate a passage plan and give you tips on an itinerary while in the Islands.
6 Provisioning - I can create a plan for your meals on the initial voyage, and what to stock your boat with prior to departure
7 Weather Routing - I can also assist with weather routing and departure planning
Optional extras
8 Crew Training - I can spend 24 hours (minimum) sailing on board with you and you atch keeping, man overboard, firefighting, helming, sail handling, reefing & all the drills as
9. Coaching - I can provide coaching sessions on a casual basis on your boat to help build up knowledge and experience. Or, I can either help you skipper the boat on the passage, or arrange to have it delivered to your destination
You can now see the average wind, wave and weather conditions, month by month, for any location in the world, with our new Climate Data feature. View the rolling averages from the last 10 years of historic ECMWF weather data so you can confidently choose the best time of year for your next adventure.
View historical weather patterns.
Wind and wave roses display the rolling 10-year average for each month, alongside other weather parameters, giving you insights into how the conditions vary throughout the year.
Wind (Wind rose)
Wave (Wave rose)
Air temperature
Rainfall
Wave height
Sea surface temperature
Cloud coverage
Highest gusts
Thunderstorm probability
Purchase on Amazon
An Island to Oneself Tom Neale
with epilogue by Stella Neale
CHB | October 2024 | HarperCollins NZ | 9781775542667 | RRP $45
‘IchosetoliveinthePacificislandsbecauselifetheremovesatthesortofpacewhichyoufeelGodmusthave hadinmindwhenhemadethesuntokeepuswarmandprovidedthefruitsoftheearthforthetaking’
ASouthSeasclassicsince1966,thisisthestoryofoneNewZealanderbraveenoughtodowhatmanyofus havedreamedofdoing–livealoneonadesertisland.ThisOctober,thereisanewreleaseAnIslandtoOneself. Thisisaneweditionofthe1966classic,nowoutofprint.
TomNealewasaregularshopworker,borninWellington.ThePacificIslandshadlongcapturedhis imagination.Attheageof50,helefthisfamilyinPalmerstonIslandfortheremoteatollofSuvarov(now Suwarrow).Hespentover16yearsthere,livinginsolitude.Hisdailylifewasmodest,andatturns,challenging andidyllic.
InhisyouthTomNealewasanordinaryseamanandforyearsashopkeeperamongtheCookIslands,butinhis fiftiesheturnedhisbackonsocietytolivealoneontheSouthPacificatollofSuvarov(nowknownas Suwarrow).Hetooknothingbutacoupleofcats,somebric-a-bractotieandbolthismeagredwelling,andthe strengthofbodyandmindtosurvive.
Foroversixyearsoverthreeextendedstays,Nealebattledtheelements:thefurioushurricanethatengulfed thecoralislet;fivedesperatehoursinastormylagoonwithacripplinglystrainedback;evenareluctantbitof blood-lettingonwildpigsandamammothseaturtle.
Butalongwiththetoilsandperilswereyearsofpeaceandbeauty: buildingacanoewhichhechristenedtheRupturedDuckling;baking withbananaleaves;thedelightdrawnfromasipofbrandy;and tamingawildduck.Allofthesesimplepleasuresareareminderof whatwetakeforgrantedinourownlivestoday.
Those moments when I sat and watched my father as he rowed me, seemingly effortlessly, across Surrarrow’s lagoon, and when later we waved to each other as I sat on the aft deck of the Ravaki, are how I like to remember him’
-StellaNeale
UPDATED CRUISING GUIDE FOR QUEENSLAND
Greg Luck has been a frequent contributor to the Down Under Rally Magazine He has released a new third edition of Cruising the Queensland Coast, his guide for yachts cruising from the Gold Coast to Lizard Island.
While cruising in 2023, Greg was struck by the number of cruisers who had adopted Starlink. The cheapest way to use it is on the Roam plan, designed to work over land. At sea, the very expensive Maritime plan must be used. Starlink “land” includes many islands and some reefs using a hexagonal tiling system. It can be hit and miss as to whether an anchorage or mooring is on “land” or sea for Starlink. New in the 3rd edition, each anchorage and mooring includes a Starlink icon to indicate land or sea.
Along with a print edition, the book comes as an eBook for tablets. However, the big players support a limited number of countries, and usually not the overseas territories of those countries such as Noumea or Tahiti. This has been a problem for some cruisers. The 3rd edition adds Rakuten Kobo, which supports 244 countries and overseas territories with excellent coverage for the Pacific.
The third edition is fully updated with:
•many new public moorings for the Townsville, Discovery and Cassowary coasts and the Whitsundays
•new anchorages, taking the total to 503 anchorages and moorings
•new public pontoons
•updates to the K’Gari Coast for the new Great Sandy Marine Park management plan
•Starlink land versus ocean status for each anchorage, mooring and marina along with the Telstra mobile reception
•digital TV reception strength for each anchorage
•latest marina changes including comprehensive information on super yacht berths and resultant marina berth layout changes
•S63 official Hydrographic chart references for each coast and how to use Australian
Hydrographic charts on apps and chart plotters along with other navigation data sources
•expanded coverage of the Gold Coast and Moreton Bay
•recalculated wave roses for recent Waverider buoy placements such as the Wide Bay Bar
•higher-resolution aerial images and photos in the print version
•numerous other changes and updates
Down Under Rally and Island Cruising members get a 10% discount on the print book and a 20% discount on the Google Play Books eBook. Contact Greg at book@curlewescape.com.au with your member number to get a discount.
DECIDING WHICH WATERMAKER IS RIGHT FOR YOU
Watermakers have become an essential tool for long-distance sailors and those living offgrid Essentially, these systems transform seawater into drinking water, offering a reliable and sustainable solution for accessing fresh water in remote locations The importance of these systems cannot be overstated, with the ability to enhance your independence from shore-based supplies, a watermaker ensures you can explore the oceans without worrying about running out of freshwater.When choosing a watermaker, there are several important factors to consider: system type, capacity, installation requirements, and maintenance. At Stella, we design, manufacture and install our watermakers to suit your requirements, our primary focus is delivering on performance and durability in demanding environments Below is an overview of our range to help you find the perfect fit
Aquarius i Watermaker:
Fully Automatic and Hassle-FreeFor those seeking convenience and efficiency, the Aquarius i is an automatic desalination system that takes care of itself. Designed for ease of use, it features:Automatic start-up and shut-down sequences.Pre-set high and lowpressure safety settings.Automated flushing cycles for consistent performance.A userfriendly display that communicates its system functionsAvailable in modular or compact configurations, the Aquarius i can produce 80, 160 or 240 litres of freshwater per hour, making it ideal for a wide range of vessels This system is perfect for those who value selfsufficiency and low-maintenance solutions
Gen 3 Watermaker: Modular, Durable, and Manual
The Gen 3 Watermaker is a no-frills, manual desalination system built for reliability and adaptability. Key features include:
Modular design, allowing components to be installed in various locations. No reliance on electronics – simple manual control valves reduce complexity.
High grade marine materials, including Duplex S/S end caps and low-maintenance design, avoiding common pain points like high-maintenance energy recovery pumps Producing 70, 140 or 210 litres per hour, the Gen 3 is suited for larger yachts, power boats, and catamarans, offering flexibility and robust performance.
Why Choose Stella?
Here at Stella, we pride ourselves on delivering high quality watermakers backed by unparalleled service. We design and manufacture all of our watermakers in-house, ensuring we are always delivering on quality and superior craftsmanship From installation through to servicing, we provide comprehensive support to ensure you receive the service possible
Choosing the right watermaker is a vital step for your marine or land-based adventures. Whether you prioritise automation, modularity, or affordability, our range offers a solution tailored to your unique needs. If you’re ready to enhance your self-sufficiency and access freshwater wherever you are, reach out to our team today for expert advice and support.
Owning a boat is not just about having fun and traveling to the most beautiful destinations in the world. While that is the main reason why people go into the boating life, there is also the same level of responsibility attached to it, as there is enjoyment.
As a boat owner or manager, you have to look after your vessel to ensure that it is in good shape and fully stocked to leave the dock and get you and your group to your next destination safe and sound. As such, you need to plan ahead and create a list of tasks to accomplish.
Use a task management software to help you navigate the maintenance system of a boat
The best boat management tool TheBoatApp, by Marine Data Cloud, is a boat management tool designed with task monitoring in mind What it does is provide you with all your boating life in one place Through the app you can have access to your marine life, fully cataloged and backed up so you never lose track of what is going on with your boat at any time of the day and year This information is accessible on any device, whether you have an active internet connection or not
Most importantly, this is a boat management software that allows you to plan, assign tasks to other members of your team such as skippers, marina personnel, or technicians, and place deadlines so you can be ahead of the game.
The advantages of TheBoatApp
The major advantage of using TheBoatApp is that you can always access information in real-time. So if a task has been completed you can just check on the app if it has been marked as such or if you need to assign someone else to help.
You can also register a task to be done on a certain date and get a notification when it is checked off the list If you are not the most organized person when it comes to remembering to do a task, just add a prealert to get notified ahead of time
Last but not least, share this information with whoever you believe needs to be in the loop and get your boat in good shape before a trip
Check out more features of TheBoatApp online and register for the free version to get a personal look at how the app may help you in task monitoring.
This is the new and most improved way of managing your tasks and helping you enjoy your boat as much as you can.
Cruising Preparation Online Course Content
Our Comprehensive Offshore Cruising Preparation Course is available online for just NZD$129.00 and on demand.
The course content is broken down into easy to digest 1 hr sessions, View the course content as often as you wish.
View when it suits you.
Learn at your own pace.
Pause / Rewind at any time.
Contact the course presenters via email or telephone at any time with questions.
Preparing the Vessel
Ship Registration: Guide to ships registry
Category 1: What is ‘Cat 1’and how does it apply to you and your vessel
Safety Gear: Vessel specific – EPIRBS, MOB devices
Rigging: Tips for extended cruising & safety including deck layout, preventers and more.
Sails: Selection, balance, tuning, maintenance, furling systems.
Anchors & Anchoring: How many, types, warps, windlass
Water treatment: Filtration, purification, disinfectant, watermakers.
Vessel Systems: Plumbing, gas, fuel
Battery Systems: Capacity, measuring power consumption, troubleshooting, preventative maintenance and charging systems
Power generation: How much do you need to generate and the pros and cons of various options including wind, solar and mechanical
Electronics: Radios, charting, GPS, Radar, autopilot, AIS, etc.
Steering: Tiller, wheel, wind vanes, autopilots & emergency systems
Diesel Engines: Troubleshooting, spares
Fuel systems: Filters, injectors, avoiding ‘bugs & bad fuel’
Navigation: Basic equipment requirements
Charts: Tables, filing, requirements
Preparing the People
Sea Survival: Coastal and Offshore
Watchkeeping & safety protocols
Safety Gear: Personal EPIRBS and MOB devices, personal AIS
Seasickness: Remedies, management & avoidance
Log Keeping: How to keep a ship log and why plus basic record keeping
To Crew or not to crew: Pros and cons of having crew aboard, where to find crew and your responsibilities.
Sailing to a schedule: A recipe for disaster
Medical Kits and medicines
Money Matters: Credit cards, foreign currency, Power of Attorney
Insurance: Vessel & Travel
Staying Sane: Identifying roles, communicating aboard & sharing small spaces
Offshore Communications
Voice Communication options including Satellite, Radios – VHF/ SSB/ HAM & Radio Schedules
Electronic communications including email at sea: why is it important?
Vessel tracking and position reporting
Computer’s, Tablets, Phones and apps
Weather Forecasting: Coastal & Offshore
Weather information: Sources of weather info, how to interpret and use weather info.
Weather routing for Passage Planning & Passage Management
Personal Health
Preparing and maintaining the Mind & Body
Search and Rescue
How to Contact, Response times, authority & scope of SAR.
Provisioning
What to take, where to put it & what is available when you get where we are going.
Sourcing Products & Services
Where to get great discounts and deals on marine and cruising lifestyle products and services
Cruising Guides & Reference Books: Recommended, pilots, reference manuals, cruising guides
Offshore Marine Medic
Two-dayOffshoreMedicalCoursecustomisedtoprovidestudentswiththebasicsrequiredfor OffshoreCruisingCoursealsocoversahandoveroftheOffshoreMedicalKit(CAT1)andhowto useit.
Upcomingdates: 22-23March-Christchurch 8-9March-Whangārei MarchTBA-Auckland
Advanced Sea Survival Course
Provisioning Coaching
We love helping cruisers start the sustainable journey with our coaching sessions. We absolutely love to help you get the best out of your galley and already have some more booked in this month. We are looking forward to helping them towards a more sustainable and plant-based galley.
For those of you who are unfamiliar with our coaching sessions, I thought it would be good to share here with you some of our FAQs to give you a better idea of what it entails.
How long will the coaching session last?
Your session will last approximately 1 hour.
How can I prepare for the session?
Once you have booked and paid for your session you will receive a Small Vegan Kitchen coaching information pack in pdf format.
What topics will be covered during the session?
This is totally up to you. I am here to guide you and help you navigate your way to your goals, they could be sustainable practices, plant-based onboard, provisioning for passage, feeding your family or crew in remote areas, etc.
Will I receive follow-up support after the session?
Of course! Help is at hand. Around 30 days after your session I will contact you and ask you how you are getting on, celebrate your success and help you overcome any challenges that arose along the way.
How much does it cost?
Our Coaching session is 60 euros which is approx 64 USD and 97 AUD.
How do I purchase a coaching session with you?
Please send us an email and, we will give you all the information you need.
Can I ask questions about specific sustainability practices or plant-based cooking techniques? Yes! Please do all your questions are very welcome.
Feel free to reach out if you would like to have a coaching session with us or have any other questions
We are here to support you every step of the way on your journey towards a more sustainable and healthconscious galley.
HYDROVANE IS BOTH:
A Self Steering Windvane System:
A completely independent mechanical system (ie. non-electrical) that steers the boat on a wind-based course. Easiest to operate, with no lines in the cockpit, and excellent on all points of sail and in all conditions.
It is an Auxiliary Rudder type of windvane system – the Vane drives its own Rudder via a sophisticated Drive Unit linkage.
An Emergency Rudder/ Steering System
Inherently a second Rudder and Steering System for your boat.
It is the strongest Emergency Rudder and Steering System available today. Always in place, nothing to set-up – takes the fear out of losing your rudder or breaking your vessel’s steering mid passage or close to shore.
We are very proud to be a part of the South Pacific Sailing Network - a group of like minded businesses and countries around the South Pacific who are all committed to promoting sustainable yachting tourism and advocating on behalf of cruisers exploring the South Pacific.
Our Pacific rally is the pathway that connects the islands and sailors together
Read more about the aims of the SPSN here.
A Saviour For Mooring Owners and Sailors Alike
Mooringbnb is a new platform designed to allow mooring owners to maximise their earnings while making it easy for sailors to book a mooring from anywhere. It’s the ultimate win-win set to take off this summer.
Mooringbnb for mooring owners
Often,mooringssitunusedforextendedperiodsoftime. Mooringbnb.co.nzmakesiteasytohireyourmooring outwheneveryou’renotusingit.Itworksalongsimilar linestoAirBnB,allowingsailorstosearchforan availablemooring,bookitandpayforitonthespot.
Mooringbnbautomatesalltheadminwork,from marketingtotakingpaymentsandevennotifyingthe harbourmasterwhenthemooringisbeingused.It’sfully customisable,soyoucancontrolitsavailability,and chargewhateverrateyouwish.
Registeringyourmooringcostsnothing,andyouget paidtherateyouset.
It’savailableinNewZealandatthemoment,butissetto expandintoAustraliaandthePacificIslandsin2024.
Formooringowners,it’sauniqueopportunityto generateincomethatrequiresminimaleffort.Itmakes morelocationsavailabletosailors,includingwhenthe weatherturnsbadandtheyneedasafeplacetostayat shortnotice.
Thenumberofmooringsareincreasingmonthlyand sailorsarealreadymakingbookingsforthenextfew months.Withthesummersailingseasononthehorizon, it’stheperfecttimetolistamooringandgenerateextra incomewhileyousailoffelsewhereyourself.
BOATING BOATING ETIQUETTE! ETIQUETTE!
Got a question? Ask a Pirate...
Dear Captain Jack, I sailed into New Zealand recently, and the Biosecurity Officer wanted to take my honey off me! He took it and put it into his rubbish bag for secure disposal, and then, when he wasn’t looking, I took it out and hid it in the cupboard...! Unfortunately for me, he did actually notice and we got a big telling off. Seems a bit harsh don’t you think??
Yours Mr Hook
Ahoy there Mr Hook,
Jeepers - what were you thinking!!??? Biosecurity in New Zealand and Australia is a serious business and you are bloody lucky to have only gotten away with a telling off. You could have potentially been fined and prosecuted too...
Being isolated Island Nations all the countries in the Pacific have unique ecosystems free from many introduced pests and diseases. Naturally they are very cautious about protecting their bee populations from foreign diseases that could be present in honey from other countries, and in most places you’ll be asked to declare honey on board and usually have it taken off you too
Luckily there is heaps of delicious locally produced honey in New Zealand you can buy to replace the stuff you had confiscated.
Your irresponsible actions could have seriously impacted the beekeeping industry, potentially introducing nasty diseases and significantly damaging their bee colonies and the precious honey industry
Determined to protect their unique flora and fauna from pests and diseases, island nations Australia and New Zealand have some of the strictest biosecurity border requirements in the world, and sailors need to understand and follow the regulations - joining the Pacific Rally will help ensure you understand and comply with all the rules and Island Cruising can help educate you on what is or isn’t permitted in all the places you visit around the Pacific. Perhaps you should sign up Mr Hook...?
Happy sailing
The Ultimate SOUTH PACIFIC SAILING ROUTE
TherearesomanyoptionsforInternationalCruiserswhenitcomestocruisingtheSouthPacific.Oftenwesee peoplewhozoomstraightthroughandmissoutonsomeofthebestbits!Ourrecommendation-don’trushand makethemostoftheprevailingwinds.Here’sasuggestedSouthWestPacificitineraryforboatsheadingfrom Panamainthisdirection-Watchthevideoanimationhere
Year 1
March CrossfromPanamatoFrenchPolynesia
April ArriveFrenchPolynesia(unlessyou’vegotalongstayvisaoranEUpassportyou’veonlygot 90daystoexplorethisincredibledestination).
JointhePacificRallyforheapsofinclusionsasyoustartyourpassagewest.
July CookIslands
August SamoaandorNiue
September Vava’u-Tonga-checkouttheBlueWaterCruisersFestival
October Ha’apai,Tongatapu,Minerva,NewZealand
Stop in NZ to escape cyclone season - enjoy tax free repairs on your boat, Or Join the South Island Rally to sail south to explore incredible Fiordland or head home for Christmas.
The Ultimate SOUTH PACIFIC SAILING ROUTE
Year 2
May JointhePacificRallytosailbacktoFijiorbacktoTonga
August Vanuatu-jointherallyeventsthroughoutVanuatu
September NewCaledonia
October BundabergAustraliaontheGoWestRally.
December SydneyHarbourtowatchthestartoftheSydneyHobartRaceandfireworksonNewYears Eve
Australia is another great place to stop for a while with great boat repairs and places to leave the boat while you explore ashore or head home and of course some excellent cruising grounds too!
Year 3
January Tasmania-JointheVDL-CCruise
February CruiseslowlybackuptheEastcoastofAustralia,enjoythestunningWhitsundaysandthen OnwardstoAsiaoralternativelycrosstheTasmanandheadbacktoNewZealandto enjoyexploringwiththeSouthIslandRally
May OrreturntothePacificontheGoEast-PacificRallytorevisittheplacesyoumissedor . enjoyedthefirsttimeround.
October BacktoNewZealandorAustralia-bothgreatplacestoendyourjourneyandsellyourboat. Or carry on doing circles in the Pacific or continuing on around the world!
Love great wine?
Say goodbye to heavy, breakable bottles onboard!
Greenskin Wine presents a premium wine experience in a convenient 750ml soft pouch, ideal for those who want to enjoy fine wine without the hassle of cruising with heavy, bulky, breakable bottles onboard.
With 8 varieties to choose from, they have a superb choice of whites and reds from the worldrenowned Margaret River and Great Southern wine regions of Western Australia. You can pre-order through their website and nominate to have your wine delivered anywhere within Australia for just $4.95 per 6-pack (3 or more cases FREE delivery).
Greenskin Wine pouches hold 750ml but are around half the size and weight of a standard bottle of wine, which will save on weight and loads of fridge and storage space onboard. They are also unbreakable, making them ideal when on the water. And once the joy is over, they fold flat, so you do not have to lug bulky empties with you!
Another fab bonus. If you just want a glass or two, simply squeeze all the air from the pouch and reseal, and your wine will stay fresh for up to 3 weeks, saving on wasted wine and money!
Sip Sustainably
Not only is the wine great quality, but Greenskin Wine pouches take 80% less energy to produce than a glass bottle, and due to their lightweight, compact nature, they take a lot less energy to transport.
The ultimate kicker is that the pouches are 100% recyclable. They even take care of the recycling. Every 6-pack comes with a postage-paid satchel, making it super easy to return your empties via AusPost for recycling.
SPECIAL OFFER - Enhance your sundowners with Greenskin WIne! Greenskin Wine generously offers our Island Cruising & Down Under Members 10% OFF all orders.
Simply visit: https://greenskinwine.com/
Use your member's discount code for use at the checkout to receive 10% OFF each, and every six-pack of Greenskin Wine ordered.
For Sailors
Thefreedomofbeingabletosailwhereveryou wantisoneofthegreatestthingsabout cruisingthissummer.Youcanfollowweather patternsorcoastlines,meanderyourwaytoa setdestinationorjustfollowyournoseandsee whereyouendup.
Justaslongasyoucanfindamooringora placetoanchor...
ForPeterKershaw,atriparoundtheBayof Islandspiecingtogetheravailablemooringson thefly,postingonFacebookpagesandasking localsforhelp,madehimthinktheremustbea betterway.
Peterdecidedtocreateanonlinebooking platformthattookcareofallthedetailsand madeiteasierforyachtiestoplansailingtrips.
WithMooringbnb,youcanseeavailable mooringsanywhereinNewZealand,andbook themwithoutneedingtogoonshore.It’sa much-neededupgradeofthetraditional bookingsystem,givingsailorscertainty, convenienceandcompliance.
There’snoneedtocheckmooringsizelimitsor notifytheharbourmaster-alltheconditions andlogisticsaretakencareofwithinthe bookingplatform.
With a friendly boating mad team always on hand to offer practical advice, tips, and make product recommendations, we’ve got the answer for you. Our chandlery will ensure you get back out on the water, faster!
For any boating problems, come see the team at All Marine.
Always on hand find that hard-to-find boat part you’ve been searching for – even if it’s not on our shelves – we’re sure to know where to find it. Priding ourselves on stocking our great product range and having fantastic service, shop online or come on down in store and have a yarn. Don’t see what you need? Give us a call, we’ll be happy to help. 09 438 4499 Check out our website here.
MEMBER CLASSIFIEDS
Feeling 52
"Elvira" is a innovative deck saloon designed to sail far away with a short handed crew; twin engines, hydraulic centerboard lifting system, all lines coming back to the helm stations on electric winches. Her building construction, equipment and volumes, energy and water self sufficiency make "Elvira" an ultimate compromise between sailing ability and luxury liveaboard.
East of the Lizard
The Sundeer & Deerfoot designed boats from Steve Dashew are regarded as the best short handed cruising boats in the world, bar none. With a solidly built GRP / Kevlar hull, easily managed sail plan, shallow draft and moveable water ballast they make 200+ mile days easy for a crew of 2 or more in comfort and safety.It is very rare for one of these boats to come on the market.
She had a major refit in 2018 and another smaller one in 2022 and again in 2023-2024. The Owner can't help himselft to make her perfect.
The current owner has owned 'East of the Lizard' 3 times now over the last 10 years and sailed many miles around the Pacific. Right now in Fiji.
Carib 41 (12.5 meter)
Fiji registered
For Reluctant Sale. Owners need replacing with younger versions. Comfortable roomy ex charter yacht. Live those tropical dreams without hassle of Offshore requirements. Fly in , explore years of wonderful Fiji adventures.
Large aft cabin More information here
Sellingourbeloved"Yaminda",a2010Seawind 1160DeluxecatamaranbuiltinNSWAUSTRALIAHullNo90(3cabin,ownersversion)Hercurrent owners(secondownerswhohaveownedhersince 2017)havemademajorupgradestohertosether upasacomfortablecruisingvesselcapableof cruisingremoteandoff-gridlocationsSince2022 shehasalsobeenupgradedtooffshore/bluewater cruisingstandard.
Viewonlinehere
Island Packet 38
1. Coppins Sea anchor SF3 and rode - New Apr 2019. Carried on trans Tasman voyage but fortunately never used.
2. Coppins Sea claw -New Apr 2019. Carried on trans Tasman voyage. Also never used.
Both made in Motueka - the best sea anchor makers in the world!
Price by negotiation.
For more details/photos - please contact Margaret 021 1824 223.
SvAlizeIIisanAustralianregisteredLeopard46,designedforcomfortablecruisingorjust moseyingaroundtheislands.
Thesaloonisbrightandairyandhasoperableportsforwardtoletthefreshaircirculate. Thelargedinettewithwraparoundseatingandagalleywithafold-outcountertopthat extendsintothespacious,coveredcockpit.
Theraisedhelmstationislocatedinthehardtoproofwithopenaccesstothecockpit,and allcontrolsleadaftforexcellentvisibilityandeaseofmanoeuvre.
Theportandstarboardhullshavefourspaciousair-conditionedcabins,eachwithanen suitetoiletandseparateshower.
Alizewassetuptooperateasacrewedchartervessel,withextrasafetyequipmentand small personal touches added. Such as forward-looking sonar, AIS, automatic fire extinguisherforenginebays,doubleUSBpointsinallcabins,stand-uppaddleboards,and somuchmore.
Alizewaspainted,anti-fouled,and2newbatteriesinstalledinApril23.
Unfortunately, the owner was injured at work and has not been able to keep up her maintenance.Assuch,theengineisfine,butcouldwithsomeTLC,thegeneratorneedsan alternator,andthevesselcoulddowithagoodclean.
TheismooredinVava’u,Tonga,andwellbelowmarketvalueat$380k(AUD).
Pleaseemailmemoredetailsandfullinventory:codswollip@gmail.com
For sale - Hydrovane windvane self-steering
New out of the UK 2016, been to the tropics and back to NZ 20182023 Was sitting unused over COVID period in Vanuatu from Nov 2019- Sept 2023 during which time it was covered, and the boat was on the hardstand The unit was mounted offset on a walkthrough transom Beale 33.
It is a very reluctant sale due to ill health and therefore no further offshore sailing for the boat. This extra crew named ‘Albi’ on our 2 handed adventures was our best investment for open water passage making, so simple and totally reliable.
This unit has a ‘stubby’ windvane which suited the backstay set up. We also had the autohelm able to be attached to its tiller for motoring.
‘Albi’ comes complete with pictured brackets and unit cover plus new spare pins and the original red Hydrovane vane cover which we didn’t use. Instead, I made one and kept this as a spare.
www.hydrovane.com are super supportive and will give advice all the way. You can also check out www.hydrovane.com/ourproduct/specifications/ for more details.
$5,500 ono, unit is in Waikawa Marina. This price is for pick up.
Contact: felicityloncar@gmail.com
I have been based in New Zealand for the past 5 years after cruising on and off for 8 years, having sailed the East Coast of Africa, the West and East Coasts of Australia as well as Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. My wife and I live on our boat and are still fully involved in the cruising lifestyle. I am a Licensed Immigration Adviser for New Zealand and, as a yachtie, have a particular interest in helping yachties with their immigration issues. Island Cruising NZ Members get a 30% discount
Radix makes delicious meals, ideal for when it's rough or when you need to refuel on the go. Quick, easy, nutritious, delicious. Discounts for Island Cruising members
Click here to order - discount code SAILNZ10
ARE YOU OFFSHORE READY?
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