to present the ship as if you are the first guests ever to step onboard. ... The best new Zealand organic lamb, poultry
New Zeal a
d C r u i s es a 2016 / 2017 SEASON
d
h a r t e rs
An Island Escape cruise, as some will already know, is truly memorable. Many of our guests are multi-repeat travellers and their continual support is not easily won. We provide an absolutely unique 24-passenger experience, hand crafted itineraries, space and comfort that is only usually found on larger ships and absolute attention to detail from our 10 debonair crew who love to over deliver our range of all-inclusive small ship cruise products. The ‘Island Passage’ is purpose built to explore. We visit gorgeous coves, larger ships simply cannot access. Our cruises specifically exclude we usually cover just 3 hours each day and feature frequent daily utilise easy access landing craft and discover the wilderness Kayaks, snorkel, paddle boards and fishing gear are an on-call helicopter for optional trips beyond the range We welcome the opportunity of greeting you onboard.
Peter Bissett, Founder
fiords and islands that long periods of travel – guided excursions. We in groups of a dozen. available as well as of the ship’s tenders.
Contents 3
MV ‘ISLAND PASSAGE’
4 STATEROOMS and SUITES 6 LIFE ONBOARD 8 cuisine and wines 10
FIORDLAND national park NZ
16
BAY OF ISLANDS NZ
22
PRIVATE CHARTERS
23 Departure DATES and rates 24
contact DETAILS
your Ships layout Island Escape Cruises’ Island Passage is an award winning luxury small ship, and with just 24 passengers on board you’ll discover an experience outside the usual tourist clichés where your New Zealand cruise is more like a private yacht holiday with friends. Oversized suites and staterooms, each with their own generous en-suite, wide halls and expansive decks await the discerning traveller. The guest’s experience is designed around the little things that matter... fine linens, fresh flowers, nightly turndown service with chocolates and chilled water, on-demand movies and individual climate control.
island passage
Promenade deck – Ocean Suites
12 Terrace
3 – Twin
Length 42.0 metres, Width 12.8 metres, Draft 2.3 metres, GRT 498 tonnes
4 – Twin
6
4
5
3
Anchorage
5 – Queen
6 – Queen
Main deck – staterooms
Bridge deck – Bridge Suites
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10
9
2
8
7
1
1 – King
7 – Queen
2 – King
3
8 – Twin/Queen
9 – Twin
10 – Twin/Queen
11 – Queen
12 – Queen
STATEROOMS Rangitoto, Colville, Jellicoe, Tiri Tiri, Waimate Cabin size 16 sqm (175 sq ft) Located on the main deck, these five staterooms are in either a twin or queen configuration. Each stateroom has two large portholes with sea views and natural light, generous sized en-suites and incabin entertainment.
“It has been three months since we had our fabulous Island Escape cruise. We miss our ship every day. We will be back for more. Sally, Sydney, Australia
SOLO CABIN Aotea Cabin size 12 sqm (130 sq ft) Absolutely perfect for a passenger travelling alone. This cabin is light, roomy and has a queen size bed, two large windows, beautiful en-suite, in-cabin entertainment and as with all our cabins and suites, it features original New Zealand artwork.
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OCEAN SUITES Kawau, Pakatoa, Motutapu, Rakino Suite size 18 sqm (195 sq ft) On the promenade deck, with the dining and saloon area on the same level, these four suites are extremely popular. They feature queen or twin beds, large viewing windows with a door directly onto the outer teak deck, large en-suites, writing desk and in-cabin entertainment.
BRIDGE SUITES Reinga, Runaway Suite size 22 sqm (235 sq ft) Located on the bridge deck these two suites feature super king size beds, large panoramic windows and a door with access direct to the outer teak deck. A large en-suite, writing desk, armchair and in-cabin entertainment make our best suites regular favourites.
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“I expected to give my wife a holiday and instead we both came away having an experience in a way I could have never expected.” mark, Australia
Life onboard The ship is very large for just 24 passengers in a child free environment. She excels with spacious cabins, an enormous interior dining and saloon area plus an expansive aft deck where guests spend a large amount of their time. A range of price-inclusive activities are available that include snorkelling, kayaks, paddle boards, fishing equipment and tenders, landing craft, hand chosen shore excursions and even a helicopter pad for those more adventurous who wish to explore further afield.
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island escape style
Our officers and crew are extremely well trained to ensure your safety and comfort. Several are from the super-yacht industry and understand your needs well in advance. Our housekeeping crew aim to present the ship as if you are the first guests ever to step onboard. We do our utmost to provide perfection at all levels. Our guides transfer you ashore with chilled water, snacks, sun-screen, beach towels, daily sterilised snorkel gear, kayaks and, just in case things don’t go as planned, first aid kits. For outdoor entertainment, our ship carries a purpose-built landing craft, large tenders, sea kayaks, fishing and snorkelling equipment.
A helicopter is available for optional trips beyond the range of the tenders. Never a dull moment, although lazing in a deckchair is always an acceptable option. During each trip, our ten-person crew is on hand to share their knowledge of the ocean and the local activities. Our landing craft and tenders are designed to provide fast and efficient transport to and from the ship and are well suited for exploring the local bays, islands, and rivers that are right on your doorstep. All boats are manned with guides, two-way radios and safety equipment for your peace of mind. We know that you will enjoy our ship and the experience of life onboard.
“This cruise is superb in every way. Superb cabins, superb meals, superb crew and a superb itinerary.” Sally and DavE
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cuisine and wines Relaxation, exceptional food and fine wines are an essential part of your cruise. Our on-board wine cellar is brimming with a selection of award winning Australian and New Zealand wines. Fresh sea air not only clears your mind, it makes you hungry. Select wines, spirits, beers, soft drinks, chilled water, teas and coffee are included in your fare.
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Simply put, our two chefs are dedicated to ensure that every meal be magnificent. Local seafood, maybe even some that you caught yourself is featured daily. You’ll enjoy other delicacies and organic artisan foods produced locally. The best New Zealand organic lamb, poultry and beef, fresh produce selected from local farmer’s markets, award winning cheeses and all presented by chefs with a strong European flair. Our on-board wine cellar is brimming with a selection of award winning Australian and New Zealand wines. This is constantly being updated with new releases together with a revolving collection that is personally selected from our favourite boutique vineyards. We also carry a wide
selection of juices, beers and spirits. You won’t need to remember the recipe for your favourite aperitif; we are well versed in the magic of mixology. The bar is open to accommodate guests, however we do encourage responsible alcohol consumption. Dinner is usually served in The Anchorage, or if you wish, alfresco on The Terrace under the stars. Breakfast and lunch are usually served on The Terrace, so that you won’t miss a minute of the beautiful scenery. Our chefs cater for most special dietary requirements.
“...We had the most wonderful time on the February cruise of the Bay of Islands. It’s nearly impossible to say how much we enjoyed it, and how thrilled we were with the ship, the crew, the itinerary, the food, everything was absolutely marvellous.” Sue Brendan, Australia
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Fiordland National Park NZ
Eight Night Cruise Package
Island Escape Cruises Package allows guests the ultimate access, in safety and comfort, to the wonders of this majestic World Heritage site. This is an invitation to get to know the Fiordland National Park alongside ecology guides who travel with guests into the territory to discover the region’s beauty with endless and unexplored spots yet to be discovered in this geological mosaic.
Departures: January/February/March 2017 10
Day 1
Queenstown
Day 2
Queenstown / Fiordland
Day 3
Nancy / Charles Sound
Day 4
Caswell Sound
Day 5
George Sound
Day 6
Bligh Sound
Day 7
Milford Sound
Day 8
Te Anau / Queenstown
Day 9
Queenstown
tasman sea Poison Bay
Milford Sound
Sutherland Sound Bligh Sound GeorgE Sound
Queenstown
Caswell Sound
charles Sound
Our Fiordland cruise package is for 8 nights, Saturday to Sunday,
Lake Te Anau Lake Wakatipu
and has you travelling deep within this stunning World Heritage
Flight/Coach
National Park. Day 1 - Queenstown On Saturday we meet you at Queenstown Airport and transfer you to the luxury Heritage Hotel. You have enough free time to fall in
Helicopter
nancy Sound
te anau
Day 3 - Nancy/Charles Sound
love with this beautiful alpine village. A dinner at one of the many
Wake to the tranquility of this World Heritage National Park. After
restaurants beside the lake is just one of numerous options available
a hearty breakfast we begin the adventure with trips ashore by our
in this beautiful town.
onboard guide. There is so much to see and the day is as full as you
Day 2 - Queenstown / Fiordland
desire. There are several trips ashore along with a crayfish gathering that is led by the ship’s engineer. During the day we will move the
On Sunday, after a leisurely breakfast, your private coach will collect
ship from Nancy to Charles Sound where we will spend the evening
you at 10am. You travel through this beautiful countryside, stopping at
at anchor.
a cafe along the way, before arriving at Lake Te Anau. After dropping our bags feel free to explore, or relax at the nearby Moose Cafe.
INTERNATIONAL and Domestic FLIGHTS
Coach
Day 4 - Caswell Sound
The helicopters depart from 2pm for a sensational 20 minute scenic
We explore further in Caswell Sound where we trace the remnants
flight that has you landing on the ‘Island Passage’ heli-pad in these
of the 1905 and 1949 US-NZ Scientific Expeditions when some 18
stunning fiords. After settling into your cabin and meeting the crew
Wapiti deer, half of which were a gift from US President Theodore
you can go ashore with our guides or simply relax as you take in these
Roosevelt, were released into the area to breed with NZ deer as game.
sensational surroundings. Dinner is served from 7pm in the interior
Some fishing and shore excursions are planned for this afternoon with
dining room.
our guide to explore this sensational region in intimate detail. 11
“We understand it took Peter and his team 5 years to gain approval for Fiordland cruises. It is amazing beyond words – an absolute must do bucket list trip. Well done on persevering to provide this world-class product. We’ll be back for much more.” Shirley and Jack, San Francisco CA.
“There is a downside to the trip. After you leave the ship you’ll find it difficult to adjust to life ashore. But you can also expect a fuller heart... once it mends.”
Day 5 - George Sound
Day 6 - Bligh Sound
Tracking north we enter George Sound where we have access to the
We leave the wonders of George Sound and head north to Bligh
beautiful Alice waterfalls. Then there is the option of a hike up to the
Sound. This gorgeous fiord is located in the heart of the wilderness
lakes above for those who are keen for the walk. Anchorage Cove is
region. A very steep sided fiord with a lovely anchorage at the head of
another favourite with hot water springs and try a trip up the George
the sound is where we spend the night. We have several trips ashore
river. We spend the night at the head of this fiord. On clear evenings
today with our guide to explore this wilderness.
Pamela
the unpolluted sky is full of stars and the top deck is your perfect viewing platform. 14
Day 7 - Milford Sound We cruise north up the coast, calling at Sutherland Sound and Poison Bay if the weather is suitable. On our short sea passages you will see many of our sea birds including albatross and there could be the possibility to see dolphins and on rare occasions whales. We enter the magnificent Milford Sound and leisurely cruise the entire length, stopping at waterfalls along the way. At our anchorage in Deepwater Basin you have the opportunity to walk the first stage of the Milford Track. We spend the last night with the most spectacular views of Milford Sound from the ship. The Captain’s farewell dinner is tonight and you have time to reflect on your adventure with fellow guests and crew. Day 8 - Te Anau / Queenstown After a hearty breakfast, we have you disembarking at 10am on Saturday. Our coach will take you on one of the best scenic routes in the world, Milford Sound to Te Anau. We make a couple of rest stops before arriving at Manapouri Airport. Here our aircraft is waiting for the scenic 25 minute flight back to Queenstown. We will have you back at the Heritage Hotel by mid-afternoon where your room is booked for Saturday night. The evening is free to explore Queenstown, dinner at a lakeside restaurant or a vineyard. Another option is to take the steamer across the lake to Walter Peak sheep station for dinner gives you a glimpse of life in the high country. Day 9 - Queenstown Sunday. On your final day we will transfer you to Queenstown Airport for your onward travel.
“The yacht was a dream and the cabins so nice and comfortable. The food first class and professionally crafted; the attention to every detail; the facilities provided were endless and finally the view of the beautiful beaches and different islands – all of them fantastic.” Adela
Itinerary is subject to change for operational reasons, the remote nature of the surroundings, weather or sea conditions and at the Captain’s discretion. 15
bay of islands NZ
Six Night Cruise
The cruising region between Auckland and the Bay of Islands is one of the most spectacular and naturally beautiful maritime environments on the planet. World class vineyards, conservation islands, exquisite remote beaches, over 200 islands and many fascinating stories from New Zealand’s older and newer history. This is without doubt casual yet elegant New Zealand summertime cruising at its best.
Departures: November/December 2016 16
World class vineyards, conservation islands, exquisite remote
BAY OF ISLANDS PAIHIA OPUA
beaches, over 200 islands and many fascinating stories from Oke Bay
New Zealand’s older and newer history. This is without doubt
Cape Brett
RUSSELL
casual yet elegant New Zealand summertime cruising at its best.
Whangamumu Harbour
NORTHBOUND – from AUCKLAND to BAY OF ISLANDS SOUTHBOUND – from BAY OF ISLANDS to AUCKLAND Poor Knights
Day 1
WHANGAREI
Hen and Chickens
little barrier Island
Kawau Island
Port Fitzroy
Great barrier Island
Auckland to Waiheke Island
Day 2
Great Barrier Island
Day 3
Great Barrier Island
Day 4
Whangamumu Harbour
Day 5
Bay of Islands
Day 6
Bay of Islands
Day 7
Paihia / Russell
The following itinerary is a Northbound cruise. Southbound is reversed. Cape Colville
On your dream-come-true summer cruise between Auckland and the Bay of Islands – and in reverse – you’ll discover uninhabited sanctuary islands, watch dolphins at play, visit fascinating historic
Rangitoto
AUCKLAND CITY
places and enjoy the finest cuisine, served with endless sea views.
Matiatia
Waiheke Island
Man of War Bay
You will be cruising New Zealand’s summer playground in style. Day 1 You begin boarding the ship between 3-4pm alongside Princes Wharf. Once you are familiar with the ship and safety drill is completed we sail at 5pm. We cruise past mysterious Rangitoto Island – you’ll learn about the island’s history as you sip a cocktail on the aft deck and become acquainted with fellow guests and crew. Your first night aboard is spent anchored at Waiheke Island with dinner served from 7:30pm. Welcome to small ship cruising at its best.
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“This cruise is amazing. The staff are fabulous, the meals are devine and the boat is just beautiful. We have booked again. Can’t wait.“ Pam and Terry, Brisbane
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Day 2
Day 5
Your Waiheke day could start with a refreshing swim off the back of the
Today’s destination is beautiful Oke Bay, an anchorage that will
ship or sleep in until it’s time for a sumptuous breakfast on deck (with
certainly tempt you for a swim off the back of the ship. Dolphins often
champagne if you fancy) – whatever you need to begin the day in a great
visit this bay so you might have another dolphin encounter here. The
mood. Later this morning we go ashore for wine tasting. A course is set
water is beautifully clear – swimming to the beach is always an option
for Great Barrier Island and we usually encounter dolphins along the way.
for fitter guests.
Day 3
Today is another special treat. After lunch the helicopter arrives at
Great Barrier is a wild and enchanting paradise with amazing stories
the ship and guests are taken for a complimentary scenic helicopter
to tell. Fitzroy Harbour, on the sheltered side of the island, is one of
flight around the Bay of islands. Flights depart right off the heli-deck
the country’s most beautiful harbours. In many places the water is deep
on the ship and fly over the crystal clear turquoise waters of the main
- right up to the shore – making it possible to anchor and tie the stern
island group to the world famous “hole in the rock”. Russell, Paihia
to a pohutukawa tree. Great Barrier has a colourful history involving
and Waitangi are also viewed from the air and experience the thrill of
whaling, gold and silver mining, shipwrecks and alternative lifestyles.
landing back onto the ship heli-deck. When the sun begins to set we
Today, a passion for conservation connects the residents who believe
return through the Albert Passage to our anchorage in Parekura Bay.
(with good reason) they’ve found heaven on earth. More than 120 kilometres of walking tracks let you connect with Great Barrier Island’s wild spirit.
Day 6 Today you’ll visit beautiful Motuarohia-Roberton Island, which you can explore in many different ways. Snorkel in the sheltered lagoon, kayak
We sail after dinner is finished. Find a quiet place on deck to see the
around the bay or hike up to the historic Maori Pa site. From the summit
brilliance of the night sky that is free from pollution and delivers one of
you’ll be rewarded by blockbuster views of the entire Bay of Islands
the most stunning star shows on the planet.
area – green jewels in a sea of sparkling blue. This island has a
Day 4
murderous very early history. Ask one of the crew to tell you the story.
You wake to the unspoilt beauty of Whangamumu. Once a whaling
Later in the afternoon we’ll motor to Urupukapuka, the largest island in
station it was the only one in the world that caught whales with nets,
the bay, with a detour to our special spot to collect fresh green- lipped
and it was Northland’s longest running and most successful station that
mussels for an afternoon snack. The Sauvignon Blanc is chilling and
began in 1844 by John Johnson and Andrew Gibson. In 1910, the
chef is determined to impress you, yet again. Watch the sunset while
station was transformed into an extensive factory under the name of
sipping a sundowner, then look forward to a night of indulgence with
Jagger and Cook. That same year the boat Hananui was purchased,
the Captain’s dinner.
and the netting method was abandoned. This steam powered boat had a harpoon fitted to it and substantially increased the whale catch rate. The gradual decline of the station had reportedly begun in the 1930’s. The depression had affected the market price for oil and the station could not dispose of its previous years catch. After exploring the harbour, and ashore, later in the day we round
Day 7 An early start with breakfast underway where we pass the historic village of Russell, known in whaling times as ‘the hell-hole of the Pacific’ because it was a place of loose women and drunken sailors. We arrive alongside Opua Wharf at 1000 where guests are transferred to Bay of Islands airport (Keri Keri) for flights leaving today.
Cape Brett and enter the Bay of Islands and will spend the night at anchor in Deep Water Cove. 21
“Thank you for your team’s hospitality and professional attitude during our trip last week. The Island Passage is without doubt the most well appointed and luxurious vessel we have used. As far as the meals and service goes well where would I start, just amazing.” Mike, Perth WA
corporate and private charters Adventure and inspiration is never far from our minds. The ‘Island Passage’ is perfect for those small and important family or corporate events. Be it a special board meeting, product launch, management retreat or celebrating that important anniversary, birthday party, family reunion or company milestone – ‘Island Passage’ is the perfect casually elegant venue.
Corporate Charters
Private Charters
Accommodating a maximum of 24 passengers, there is a large saloon area for meetings
Chartering ships is a growing trend. People are booking ship charters for weddings, birthday
and presentations, and ample room onboard for break-out sessions and leisure activities. We
or anniversary celebrations with friends or for family reunions. Corporations are chartering
will organise team building, wine trails, fishing competitions, golf excursions, bush walks and
ships for incentive or meetings at sea. Planners are chartering boats to use as hotels at special
beach safaris and many other activities for when the hard work has been done.
events. There are charters for film crews, expeditions and fund-raising events.
Get away from it all and ensure you have everyone’s undivided attention and attendance.
On a chartered boat you have complete control over all the public areas, activities and
With a full suite of technology, including a large flat screen television ideal for presentations,
entertainment. The ship is yours, without any conflicts from other passengers or other activities.
the Island Passage really is your own floating office but with fabulous food and beverage
You can arrange whatever you want, tailoring programs for virtually any interest.
options including a fully stocked bar boasting an extensive range of local and imported
Perhaps you looking for a special venue for a private anniversary. Well, look no further
beverages. There are two onboard tenders enabling you to play hard when the hard work
because you have found the perfect place. ‘Island Passage’ can accommodate up to
has been done and its time for some bonding and celebrating success.
24 overnight guests, making her well suited for an exclusive charter to celebrate afloat.
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departure dates and cruise rates Rates are in NZ Dollars per person. Dates are correct at time of print. Please see web for special offers.
THE BAY OF ISLANDS, NZ
OCEAN SUITE
BRIDGE SUITE
SHIP CHARTER
BAY OF ISLANDS CRUISE INCLUSIONS
NIGHTS
STATEROOM
SOLO CABIN
Sunday 20 Noveber 2016 - South
6
$3,950
$5,550
$5,550
$6,550
$112,100
Sunday 27 November 2016 - North
6
$3,950
$5,550
$5,550
$6,550
$112,100
Sunday 04 December 2016 - South
6
$3,950
$5,550
$5,550
$6,550
$112,100
Sunday 11 December 2016 - North
6
$3,950
$5,550
$5,550
$6,550
$112,100
Transfer to Bay of Islands or Auckland airport after the cruises returns.
Sunday 18 December 2016 - South
6
$3,950
$5,550
$5,550
$6,550
$112,100
Cruise prices per person twin share in NZ Dollars - includes NZ GST.
Sunday 25 December 2016 - North
6
$3,950
$5,550
$5,550
$6,550
$112,100
BRIDGE SUITE
SHIP CHARTER
Transfer from Bay of Islands or Auckland Airport to the ship on arrival. Six nights on ‘Island Passage’ with breakfast, lunch and dinner. Selected wines, spirits, beer, soft drinks, chilled water, teas and coffee. All cabins/suites offer private en-suites, individual air-conditioning. Shore excursions and complimentary scenic helicopter flight onboard. Use of kayaks, tenders, snorkel and fishing equipment carried onboard.
Please see web for relevant Early Bird savings for these cruise departures.
FIORDLAND CRUISE INCLUSIONS
FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARK, NZ
NIGHTS
STATEROOM
SOLO CABIN
OCEAN SUITE
Saturday 07 January 2017
8
$5,950
$7,950
$7,950
$8,950
$162,260
Saturday 14 January 2017
8
$5,950
$7,950
$7,950
$8,950
$162,260
Saturday 21 January 2017
8
$5,950
$7,950
$7,950
$8,950
$162,260
Saturday 28 January 2017
8
$5,950
$7,850
$7,950
$8,950
$162,260
Shore excursions with our Fiordland experienced tour guide.
Saturday 04 February 2017
8
$5,950
$7,950
$7,950
$8,950
$162,260
Flights and/or Coach from Milford Sound to Queenstown.
Saturday 11 February 2017
8
$5,950
$7,950
$7,950
$8,950
$162,260
Saturday 18 February 2017
8
$5,950
$7,950
$7,950
$8,950
$162,260
Sunday transfers from Heritage Hotel to Queenstown Airport.
Saturday 25 February 2017
8
$5,950
$7,950
$7,950
$8,950
$162,260
Use of kayaks, tenders, snorkel and fishing equipment carried onboard.
Saturday 04 March 2017
8
$5,950
$7,950
$7,950
$8,950
$162,260
Saturday 11 March 2017
8
$5,950
$7,950
$7,950
$8,950
$162,260
Saturday 18 March 2017
8
$5,950
$7,950
$7,950
$8,950
$162,260
Saturday 25 March 2017
8
$5,950
$7,950
$7,950
$8,950
$162,260
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Transfer on Saturday from Queenstown Airport to Heritage Hotel. Saturday night pre-cruise at Heritage Hotel including breakfast. Private Coach transfers from Queenstown Heritage Hotel to Te Anau. Helicopter transfers from Te Anau to ship in Fiordland National Park. Six nights on ‘Island Passage’ with breakfast, lunch and dinner. Selected wines, spirits, beer, soft drinks, chilled water, teas and coffee.
Saturday transfers from Queenstown Airport to Heritage Hotel. Saturday night post-cruise at Heritage Hotel includes breakfast.
Cruise prices per person twin share in NZ Dollars - includes NZ GST. Please see web for relevant Early Bird savings for these cruise departures.
‘island passage’ cruises in tahiti may to october
OUTDOOR TRAVEL PTY LTD Contact Outdoor Travel for details and reservations on Island Escape Cruises: Call Toll free: 1800 331 582 or
(03) 57551743 or
Fax (03) 57501020
Email:
[email protected]
Web:
www.outdoortravel.com.au
Mail: Outdoor Travel Pty Ltd, PO Box 286, Bright VIC 3741, Australia
