Arriving in Central Otago over 20 years ago, Steve Toyer was
immediately struck with a passion for all things gold and so
began his research of the history of the Clutha River and the
Dunstan Goldrush days.
Boat trips down the stunning Roxburgh Gorge and visits to the
littleknown derelict gold towns of Doctors and Butchers
Points served to feed his gold fever. Finally in the spring
of 2002, Steve launched Clutha River Cruises with a hope of
opening up this visually spectacular and historically
stunning part of Central Otago for all to see. Over the
years, Clutha River Cruises has grown from its first
converted fishing boat to a luxurious pontoon craft and the
recently introduced Mata-Au.
The Mata-Au, which is the Maori name for the Clutha, has
taken his business to a new dimension. Well appointed and
spacious, it is capable of seating 32 passengers and offers a
luxurious trip while keeping the Clutha River Cruises
trademark heritage tour extremely personal. As the skipper as
well as the owner, Steve regales customers with tales of old,
bringing to life a bygone era that is made all the more
tangible by visiting and seeing first-hand the old European
and Chinese miners' huts.
The reaches of the Clutha River between Alexandra and
Roxburgh are only accessible by boat or a good tramp and
offers goldmining history that, because of its isolation, is
remarkably preserved. Clutha River Cruises makes daily trips
to this isolated area, offering a journey through time and
the opportunity for all to view this amazing part of New
Zealand's history.
SPECIAL SUMMER CRUISING
Evening Cruise: Evening cruises begin after Christmas.
These will have various themes. Keep an eye on the newspapers
and an ear on the radio.
New Year's Eve Cruise: Clutha River Cruises heads
upriver to Clyde, where passengers can disembark and enjoy
the New Year's Eve celebrations before making their own way
back to Alexandra.
Special-occasion Cruises: Charter trips are offered
for everything from a celebratory family occasion to a
corporate event with a difference. The fully licensed Clutha
River Cruises provides an extensive range of catering, from
gourmet antipasto platters to scrumptious barbecues.
Pick-ups and Drop-offs: The launch also provides a
pick-up and drop-off service for campers and trampers along
the river trail.
For more info vist the website: http://www.clutharivercruises.co.nz
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