What's Happening

Real Journeys have launched a luxurious new $2.5 million tourism vessel - MV Sinbad - in Milford Sound.

Abbe Hutchins, granddaughter of company founders Lady Olive Hutchins (and the late Les Hutchins), had the pleasure of actually launching the vessel and breaking the customary bottle of champagne on the vessel’s bow.

The launch of the MV Sinbad is the latest in an ongoing series of multi million dollar investments by Real Journeys in the tourism sector and the fifth new vessel to be launched in Fiordland by the company since 2000.

The launching of the MV Sinbad reflects the company’s strong confidence in the future prospects of the New Zealand tourism sector, despite the recent downturn.

The MV Sinbad is a luxurious small motor vessel with comfortable seating, large windows and external observation decks. Up on the bridge, the vessel has floor to ceiling windows that will allow for great viewing even on the wettest Fiordland days. The MV Sinbad has been purpose built to provide passengers with an exceptional experience, combining classical lines with excellent viewing opportunities. A maximum capacity of 75 passengers ensures a premium excursion.

The MV Sinbad was designed locally and built in Southland and is testimony to the quality of craftsmanship and expertise in the local ship building industry.

The MV Sinbad will be used for Real Journeys very popular Milford Sound Nature Cruises, enabling the number of departures to double to six times per day during the peak summer season. Luxury coach services from Queenstown and Te Anau will operate year round connecting with these cruise departures. The introduction of the MV Sinbad to the Nature Cruises fleet has also enabled the commencement of a new flight and nature cruise option from Queenstown.

Dave Hawkey, CEO Real Journeys believes "the growing popularity of the Nature Cruises is due to this extended, leisurely cruise option with a specialist nature guide onboard providing what visitors are looking for".

"Company passenger research shows visitors are becoming increasingly discerning, with a strong preference for natural, authentic experiences. They want small-group, interactive high-quality excursions that are sensitive to the environment. High quality interpretation provided by guides is also important to them."

"As arguable the most iconic destination in New Zealand, it is important that Milford Sound continues to provide a high quality experience for visitors and launching of the MV Sinbad has definitely enabled us to enhance further what we offer travelers."

For more information, please visit www.realjourneys.co.nz/corporate/MV-Sinbad_Launch