KEY POINTS:
Coastguard Northern Region is about to run two evening Education Cruises to popular boating areas in the Hauraki Gulf.
The cruises use a Fullers Ferry to visit popular cruising areas and Coastguard Northern Region marketing manager Don Scandrett says the on board commentary reveals important information about hazards in the areas.
"We offer a wide range of information about the most popular anchorages and also cover fishing and diving spots and recreational opportunities such as walking tracks," he says.
"There is also an interesting historical account of each area and we offer practical tips on boating safety."
Mr Scandrett says that, although time constraints mean that there will not be an opportunity to venture ashore, people are welcome to bring a picnic basket or partake in the snacks and beverages available onboard.
Coastguard rescue vessel volunteers will also be holding a sausage sizzle onboard as part of their summer fundraising.
Coastguard staff will be present on both cruises and a wide range of charts and reference books on the areas visited will be available for purchase.
The first cruise will visit the Waiheke/Coromandel area and is on Tuesday November 27.
The cruise costs $40 per person.
The second cruise is being held a week later, on December 4, and will visit the Mahurangi and Kawau areas.
The cost is $35 per person.
All cruises are boarded at Fullers Downtown Ferry Terminal at 5pm and depart at 5.30pm sharp, with an expected return time after dark at around 10pm.
* For further information or to book a place on either cruise contact Coastguard on phone (09) 303 4303 or visit www.coastguard.org.nz.
