Luxury Riverboat Launched

30 January 2009

PRESS RELEASE

Luxury Riverboat Launched

The luxurious Discovery 1 riverboat is now at its new Tuakau home, about 30 minutes south of Auckland, and moored on the Waikato River.

The NZ$1.5 million boat is the only one of its kind in New Zealand and its expansive top deck is perfect for relaxing and entertaining, complete with an 8-person Jacuzzi, 8-burner barbecue, bar, dining table, sound system and sun loungers.

Downstairs there are 4 cabins with queen beds, each with its own en-suite bathroom and sliding door onto the deck. At the rear of the boat there are 2 lounge areas that can become 2 more queen-sized bedrooms with shower and toilet facilities, enabling the boat to sleep up to 12 in luxurious comfort.

In the front of the riverboat on the main deck is a full size kitchen, lounge, another dining table that seats 12 and large 46" LCD TV with SKY DVD player etc.

On day trips, Discovery 1 is able to cater for 20-30 people, with lunches or cocktails on the top deck or forward and rear lounges. The boat is a perfect 'floating' venue for small corporate meetings.

Owner Ian Simpson says the riverboat has been likened to a 'lodge on water' and he is looking forward to welcoming the first guests late next month.

"Only family and friends have experienced the riverboat so far and the feedback has been fantastic. Our first customers are due on board at the end of February and I'm very interested to hear what they think.

"I'm sure they will love it. Not only will they have the luxury of the riverboat to enjoy, but also the opportunity to explore the Waikato River and take in some culture and activities such as golf and winery visits if they want."

Other activities available include fishing along the river and exploring in one of the riverboat's tenders or kayaks. Seven golf courses and eight wineries are dotted within easy reach of the river, to which local operators can provide transport. There is also Maori culture, a Marae visit, horse riding and garden visit options.

Ian and Judy Simpson were inspired to build Discovery 1 through their association with river boating in Australia, and the serenity and tranquility of the Waikato River. The couple own a riverboat on the Murray River, where 60,000, mainly Australians cruise the waterways each year. River boating is growing in popularity with New Zealanders as well, especially as there is not the pitch and roll like there is onboard sea boats.

Discovery 1 can be chartered for a day, 3 nights or longer. The price can include a skipper, all meals cooked by the onboard chef and wine with meals. Excursions are an optional add on.

Mr Simpson says that interest in the riverboat is high, with bookings steadily flowing in.

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