On the Water with Pete and Takutai, Marlborough Sounds

A truly unique guided cruise on the Sounds

Pete is the skipper of the good ship, Tutanekai, and his wife, Takutai, is the first mate. Theirs is an historic, cultural and personal ecotour of the Marlborough Sounds on a beautiful 70 year old two-masted classic Sounds launch, full of warmth and character. Tutanekai has a fascinating history – a mail boat for 30 years – then a fishing boat – then 20 years in the mussel industry before being lovingly restored by Pete.

Pete’s family has lived in the Marlborough Sounds for six generations – his ancestors were Sounds farmers and boat builders. Takutai is Maori – and her name means "one who has an affinity with the sea". That these two offer a truly unique guided cruise on the Sounds seems only natural. Their passion and knowledge, combined with the stories of local folklore, make this a very memorable day.

Aboard historic Tutanekai, you will enjoy a day of relaxing cruising – whilst learning about the local folklore – and possibly encountering the wildlife –dolphins often play in the Sounds. You will stop at a remote cove for lunch with Maori friends, where you will enjoy freshly caught fish – possibly even crayfish (lobster) or paua (abalone).