One of the most beautiful ferry sailings in the world!!!

If you're planning on travelling to the beautiful South Island(which I have done many times), there is no better way of getting there than on what has been described as "one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world", the InterIslander. With 3 vessels to choose from, you are spoilt for choice. "Arahura" - meaning "Pathway to Dawn" first sailed across Cook Strait in 1983.This makes her the oldest ship in the InterIslander fleet.Having undergone a $4million refurbishment in August 2004, Arahura has many facilities for her 970 passengers to enjoy during the 3 hour sailing between Wellington and Picton. You can grab a snack or meal from the centrally located Food Court, or an ice cold beer from "Barrett's Bar" located at the rear of the vessel.Or if you prefer to take in the views, you can stroll along the decks.Or if relaxing is more your thing, the "Pelorus Lounge" and "Queen Charlotte Lounge" are the perfect places.There is also the "Club Class Lounge" where you can relax in private. Also located onboard is "The Watch House Movie Theatre" where you can catch one of the latest movies during your sailing. "Aratere" - meaning "Quick Path" is the smallest vessel carrying only 370 passengers.Part of the Interislander fleet since 1999, "Aratere" offers passengers a forward viewing deck at the front of the ship where you can take in the breathtaking views. If you start feeling hungry or thirsty, you can purchase hot beverages, snacks and meals from the "Pennant Cafe".Or if beer and wine are more your thing, the "Fo'c'le Lounge Bar" with it's stunning Atrium. You can also catch a movie in the "Compass Movie Theatre" or relax in the "Club Class Lounge". There is also "Moby's Playroom" for the young ones to play while the adults relax. "Kaitaki" - meaning "Challenger" is the newest and largest vessel in the Interislander fleet.Having joined the fleet in August 2005, "Kaitaki" is able to carry 1600 passengers and 600 cars.It replaced "The Lynx" which I had the privilage of working on during it's last season. During the 3 hour sailing, you can check out the stunning views from the many decks including the sun-deck where you can work on that holiday suntan. For those of you who start feeling peckish during the sailing, you can sample some of New Zealand's finest cuisine in "Cafe Olivetto" or enjoy one of the many award-winning New Zealand wines and beers in the "Karori Rip Bar" located at the rear of the vessel with it's stunning atrium seating area. When it's time to relax,what better way to do it than in the "Kaitaki Class Lounge" or one of the cinemas. Once you have experienced an InterIslander sailing, you will never want to fly again. Further information is available on the Interislander website http://www.interislander.co.nz or by phoning 0800 802 802.