Easter traditionally means the end of the high season and certainly things start to wind down a bit after this weekend. Of course, if you don’t like crowds, there is no better time to experience a cruise! Quite often we will be the only boat out on the harbours which really is great for those wanting to live the 100% Pure promise. In this update have a look at our latest news and promotions. Please let me know if we can help you in any way.
Cheers, Paul.
Face to face with Hector’s dolphins
When we say you’ll get an up close encounter with the world’s rarest dolphins, we really mean it! Here is a great picture snapped by one of our customers recently. Leah and Matt Vusich said ‘we had a terrific time and it was certainly the highlight of my in-laws’ trip to NZ.’
Qualmark score 98%
Black Cat recently received a score in the generic section of the Qualmark assessment criteria of 98% which according to our assessor is within the top few percent of the 2000 plus companies assessed this year. We also received an enviro silver award in recognition of the effort and commitment the company puts into the environment.
$24,000 to Quail Island tree planting project
Black Cat Cruises is supporting the Quail Island Ecological Restoration Trust with $24,000 worth of sponsorship over the next three years. Volunteers and trust workers travel to the island throughout the year to perform the important tree planting, weed eradication, nursery work and monitoring of the success of plant and animal re-introduction activity. The Trust aims to restoring the island to its former glory with native trees, birds, lizards and others animals.
Black Cat on the Beeb
It’s one thing to visit New Zealand for holiday but quite another to move here for good. A recent BBC TV show called ‘Wanted Down Under’ looked at the challenges facing British familes moving to the other side of the world. One episode followed the French family. Husband Ian is looking for a business opportunity to match his wildlife tours business in Scotland but the idea of leaving their sons at home and convincing a teenage daughter to move is tough for Mum. Our cruises and staff featured throughout the story and weve had lots of feedback from people who have seen the episode screen in January.
Quail Island Easter Egg Hunt
Kids, here’s your chance to score more Easter Eggs while exploring Quail Island. Search the island for blue and pink stones and exchange for delicious Easter Eggs, discover ship wrecks, native birds, volcanic cliffs and leprosy graves! Plus hunt for the gold stone to win a huge Easter egg. Departs: 10.20am and 12.20pm from Lyttelton. Tel: 328 9078.
The Giant’s House, Akaroa
This place really has to be seen to be believed. It’s one of the great attractions in Akaroa. Just a few minutes walk from the centre of Akaroa, The Giant’s House features a number of incredible mosaic sculptures, all around a beautiful colonial homestead built in 1880 of Totara and Kauri. A must see when you go to Akaroa. www.linton.co.nz
Cruise ships in Akaroa & Lyttelton
We’ve been fortunate enough to host a number of cruise ships in both Lyttelton and Akaroa this season. Pictured is the Millennium in Akaroa Harbour. Why would someone come off a large ship and go onto a ’small’ tourist boat like ours? Of course our boats get much closer to the wildlife and sea caves than a cruise ship can and our staff have a lot of local knowledge and experience to transform the experience into something special.
Lyttelton to France for just $79!
The very popular Lyttelton to Akaroa cruise is on again on the 26th of April 2009. Explore volcanic sea cliffs, caves and remote bays not accessible by land. Spot the rare Hector’s Dolphin, seals, penguins and other marine wildlife. Then when in Akaroa you have plenty of time for lunch, shopping and a stroll around this delightful picturesque French inspired village. Adults $79, children (5-15) $39. Telephone 03 328 9078.
Black Cat to the rescue
Every year we undertake a number of rescues mostly of recreational boaties who have got themselves into trouble. Two rescues were undertaken in the last month, one located within the harbour and another requested by Rescue Coordination Centre which required Black Cat to travel 14 nautical miles offshore. This rescue was completed successfully with vessel and all lives returned intact!
Great Feedback
To All the Staff at BlackCat Cruises Akaroa, My wife and I were fortunate to be your guests on friday, 20th (1pm) cruise and wish to pass on our eternal gratitude for such a professional service provided by your entire staff. We have travelled extensively around the world and enjoyed cruises and tours of a wide variety in many, many countries but consider the service you offer to the public is second to none. From the moment we submitted our booking form to the end of the cruise we were greeted and treated by exceptionally friendly and helpful staff as well as listening to the interesting and meaningful commentary by the “Cat’s” Captain. Having purchased the photographs and after viewing the Interactive CD - Rom we were further highly impressed with both the value and content provided. Your Company and the entire Staff are to be highly commended and are a real asset to Akaroa and the Tourist Industry of Canterbury and New Zealand. We will treasure the memories and experience for some time to come. Thank you sincerely for an enjoyable time. William and Ngaire Sleeman.
Did you know?
The Pacific ocean is the largest and deepest of the world’s four oceans, covering more than one third of the earth’s surface. It also contains more than half of its free water.
