A Sailing Trip That Will Literally Change You...
NZ's Oldest Gaff-Rigger
Add toTrip Planner
In the last couple of weeks I have seen more penguins collecting in Akaroa Harbour than ever before, there are groups of 20 penguins fishing together. What is even more interesting is that the dolphins have been abundant as well. We saw 30 penguins and 40 hector dolphins on our last trip. This year I have added a new dimension of relaxing meditative music to the trip which enhances the whole experience. There is a noticeable change in passengers from the beginning of the trip to the end of the trip, they literally leave as different people. I thought this was just my imagination, however, I recently did some research on the subject and found that according to AquaThought Foundation, human contact with dolphins induces both Alpha brain state and hemispheric synchronization in the brain. This is because dolphins produce sound waves that coincide with the Schumann Resonance Frequency at 7.83 Hz. . Dolphins communicate with clicking sounds that generate biosonar sound energy ( dolphin echolation). These sound waves have ultrasonic frequencies four times higher than that produced by current ultrasound machines. This has the effect of transforming people into a transcendental meditatative state. Combining mantra like music, the quiet of sailing with dolphin viewing creates a relaxed passenger. A relaxation that most people could only enjoy from hours of meditation.
About the boat…
The Fox II is New Zealand's oldest gaff rigged ketch and has been sailing in Akaroa for many years. She was built in Auckland, New Zealand in 1922 by WA Elley. She was originally built as a sailing cargo carrier with a single mast, a 9 foot bowsprit and a steel centre-board. Originally named Iris Eileen after the builder’s daughter, only the best kauri was used in her construction. The knees being formed from pohutakawa and all fastenings made of copper.
The Iris Eileen was later sold to the Fox Fishing Company, and became the second boat for the company fleet. She was renamed FOX II. A steam engine was installed, masts were removed, and a wheelhouse and bulwarks built.
The Fox II has daily scheduled trips leaving from Daly's Wharf in Akaroa every day from mid- December to May.
Have you got a great story to tell?
Add your own article