Island Escape

The ‘Island Passage’ is our beautifully-appointed small ship. Weighing in at almost 500 tonnes, she’s equipped to travel to inaccessible areas while delivering the highest level of passenger comfort.

On board you’ll find 10 spacious ensuite cabins, a large dining room and saloon lounge, a library and generous outdoor living spaces. In the galley, our chef works with the freshest local ingredients and delicacies to create memorable meals that reflect the day’s adventures.

For entertainment and exploration, Island Passage carries purpose-built landing craft, three large tenders, sea kayaks, a five-seater helicopter and snorkelling equipment. Never a dull moment, although lazing in a deckchair is always an acceptable option. During each journey, our eight-person crew are on hand to share their knowledge of the ocean and local landscapes. On selected trips, the learning experience will be enhanced by a New Zealand Geographic scientist, historian, photographer or explorer. The NZ Department of Conservation has granted Island Passage permission to operate in DOC sites within New Zealand.

The alliance between Island Escape and New Zealand Geographic is assisting research and exploration projects around the service region. Together we support the New Zealand Geographic Trust with funding for research and conservation in the areas we visit. 

Welcome aboard.

Proudly supported by Island Escape Cruises, contact on 02 9389 2224.

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Vessel: Double hull catamaran

Star rating: 4 star

Passengers: 21 Passengers overnight.  200 Passengers day charter.

What's included: Accommodation,  All onboard chef prepared meals,  educational programs, port taxes, gratuities, use of ship's sporting equipment and facilities.

What's new: On board island passage,  the experiences that you’re been yearning for can become blissful reality. discover your own “tales of the south pacific” on a tropical cruise or be captivated by the sky-forest-sea perfection of Marlborough sounds and be amazed within the treasure islands of Auckland’s hauraki gulf Marine park. For groups of up to 20, she represents the ultimate floating luxury escape. Welcome to our paradise

 

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Onboard Experience

Orion offers a range of light entertainment. After dinner you will find our duo in the Leda Lounge playing a selection of music ideally suited to conversation over a cognac, or dancing should the mood take you.

Dining

Relaxation, exceptional food and fine wine are an essential part of your expedition. Fresh air not only clears your mind, it makes you hungry.

Island Passage is equipped with a professional galley and a chef who’s dedicated to making every meal magnificent. Local seafood (maybe even some you caught yourself) is often on the menu; you’ll also enjoy other delicacies and organic artisan foods produced in the local region. Breakfast and lunch are usually served on the aft deck, so that you won’t miss a single minute of any of the beautiful scenery. In the evening you’ll dine in style at one of the 10-seater tables. Conversation is invariably lively and lots of fun.

Our on-board wine cellar is brimming with a selection of award-winning New Zealand wines. You won’t need to remember the recipe for your favourite aperitif; our bartender is well-versed in the magic of mixology.

Facilities

The ‘Island Passage’ operates with a crew of eight and is registered as a New Zealand vessel under NZ Safe Ship Management. She has a tonnage of 496 GRT. The ship carries a selection of landing craft, tenders and kayaks to allow exploring off the ship into bays, estuaries and islands.

The helicopter is available for trips beyond the range of our sea craft.

Accomodation

Accommodation

The ‘Island Passage’ is perfect for a leisurely break from a hectic lifestyle. We only have accommodation onboard for 20 passengers. The ten spacious cabins, with rich timber panelling and New Zealand Kauri furniture, all fitted with DVD, audio and TV,
and are all air-conditioned. Most with doors opening on to the outer deck, each cabin has its own private ensuite.

Cabins

Expedition Cabins

Located on the main deck, our Expedition cabins give you a choice of a queen-size bed or two singles.

Suites with single beds have a pullman berth for a third guest. Individual air conditioning, TV, DVD/CD, movies. Sea

Located on the main deck, our Expedition cabins give you a choice of a queen-size bed or two singles.

Suites with single beds have a pullman berth for a third guest. Individual air conditioning, TV, DVD/CD, movies. Sea view from the portholes.

Staterooms


On the same level as the saloon, bar and dining room, the Staterooms have large picture windows and doors opening directly onto the promenade deck. Each cabin has individual air-conditioning, TV, DVD/CD, movies, writing desk and either queen or twin single beds. 

Bridge Deck Suites

Offering the best views on the ship, the two Bridge Deck cabins open directly onto the teak bridge deck. Each cabin is individually air-conditioned with SKY TV, DVD/CD, movies on demand, writing desk, easy chair, super king bed and extra-large bathroom.