Akaroa Fox II Sailing

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What should I bring? You should bring sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat (with a string), and a camera with plenty of memory. The Fox II has extra coats on board if it should get cold. But you should bring a jumper or jacket. There is seating inside with
a full (heated) cabin if you want to escape the weather.

What wildlife will we see? FACT: From Dec-May Akaroa Harbour is home to Hectors dolphins, blue and yellow-eyed penguins, and New Zealand fur seals. We have a strict policy on the Fox II that we do not chase the wildlife, alter course or try to entice them in any way. Last year we saw dolphins on 99% of our trips which means that 99 out of every 100 trips we see dolphins! We have the highest success rate at spotting dolphins of any boat, because of our slower speed they come and swim along side the Fox II. Dolphins are wild animals and we respect that fact, we do not stop, chase or harass the dolphins in any way. We also see seals on most all of our trips, there are a couple of seal colonies in and outside of Akaroa Heads that we visit if the conditions are right. Typically during the day, penguins are swimming in the harbour and return to their nests at sunset. There are a myriad of birds including petrels, mollymawk albatross, gannets, sea gulls and terns. Whales come to Akaroa once or twice a year, but it is extremely rare to see these.

Why should I feel good about choosing the Fox II over the other dolphin boats? 1. The Fox II is eco-friendly. The Fox II uses wind most of the time as opposed to the other operators who rely on diesel, which means we do not pollute as much or use up limited natural resources. We sometimes have to use the engine however it only uses 5 litres of diesel an hour.
2. The Fox II is the least invasive boat to the wildlife. Because of our slower speed and quiet approach, dolphins come right up to the Fox II and even swim along side. You will feel a part of nature when you see how they play along side.
3. The Fox II is conservation minded and donates a portion of the money received for each ticket towards dolphin conservation research. The owners of the Fox II actively support conservation efforts being made in the harbour and have petitioned to make more marine reserves and higher fishing restrictions.
4. The Fox II is used part of the year exclusively for a charitable trust to help Canterbury children experience sailing. We train over 1500 children from all backgrounds every year in the basics of sailing to help promote sailing to New Zealand children from all different backgrounds aged 8 to 16.

What else will we see? As far as geography, Akaroa is the crater of an extinct volcano. The scenery is spectacular. There are 1000 foot sea cliffs, waterfalls, caves and amazing rock formations.

What if I get seasick? It is rare that passengers feel seasick on the Fox II. Because of her long keel and with the wind in her sails, she cuts through the waves making for a steady enjoyable trip. Most of the trip is in the protected harbour of Akaroa, but we do venture out into the Pacific. If you should feel seasick, ginger tablets or biscuits are provided on board, which will cure about 90% of seasickness. We do not offer any prescription or pharmaceutical remedies, just natural ones.

How long does the trip last? The trip lasts approximately 2½ hours. We will definitely be back by the afternoon bus if you are not staying over in Akaroa. Please let us know if you have a bus to catch.

How many people can the boat hold? The Fox II is licensed to hold 30 passengers; there is enough seating for everyone. There is enough room in the cabin below decks for all passengers if necessary.

Do you actually sail or just motor around the harbour? A typical trip includes motor sailing and real sailing (with the motor off), if the winds are right. There are 6 sails, so there is always a sheet to be pulled or a halyard to hoist if you are keen, we can even give you a go on the wheel. As we leave the heads of Akaroa, there are Easterly winds that make for an enjoyable trip. Because we have a schedule to keep and a certain amount of distance to cover we may use the motor from time to time to augment our propulsion.

Is the Fox II Safe? The Fox II has one the highest safety ratings in the South Island of New Zealand. There is always an element of danger when sailing, but the Fox II is surveyed every year by Maritime New Zealand which ensures it is safe to carry passengers. The engine is inspected, and all the rigging is tested along with the safety equipment. The Fox II is not suitable for wheelchair bound people or people with extreme disabilities. The skipper insists that all children must wear a life jacket (provided) and no more than one child per adult passenger please.

What kind of boat is the Fox II? The Fox II is an 85 year old wooden gaffed rigged ketch. This is one of the oldest and most traditional styles of boat. It has 6 sails and two masts (a main and mizzen). It is actually the oldest working ketch in New Zealand.

Why is the Fox II the best boat trip in Akaroa Harbour? The Fox II is the only sailboat in Akaroa Harbour that does public charters. The Fox II is an intimate, relaxed and quiet way to see the harbour and its wildlife. It’s informative, with a narration on the history of Akaroa Harbour and the wildlife. It is the closest way to experience nature and is the most environmentally friendly of all the boat trips. It is not just a sailing cruise on the harbour, it is an experience you will remember the rest of your life.

TESTIMONIALS

Such as superb trip, great company, eco-tour, nature and views of the wildlife.
Thanks.
Richard Herbert, Swansea Wales, UK

Wow! What an amazing day with you guys, thanks heeps!
Lisa and Glen Mackay, Morrisville, NZ

Lovely trip, wonderful animals.
Dortje Knap, Germany

Great fun, great at explaining stuff, loved the jumping dolphins...
Janelle Weissman and Kalp Sieberer, Colorodo, USA

Fantastic sail, saw dolphins, seals, penguins and even a wondering albatross!
Warrick, Carolyn, Amy Gibbs Riverhead, NZ

TYPICAL ROUTES

Trips are planned according to tides and weather. Specifically wind and sea conditions determine routes. Most trips go out to the end of the Akaroa Harbour and into the Pacific. Private charters and evening cruises typically stay in the inner harbour.