Real Journeys received MV (Motor Vessel) Sinbad at Milford Sound last week after almost two years of hull construction and fit-out work in Bluff.
The 21m-long cruiser can carry up to 75 passengers and was purpose-built with spacious decks, large floor-to-ceiling windows and state-of-the-art navigation and safety equipment.
Features include a specially designed galley, licensed bar and modern amenities, plus an on-board video camera and audio-visual screens.
Sinbad took 18 hours to sail from the Real Journeys workshop in Bluff to Milford Sound Wharf and arrived early on Friday.
The boat was built to meet demand for the two-hour Milford Sound nature cruise and takes the operator's Milford fleet to six vessels and its entire fleet to 22.
Real Journeys chief executive Dave Hawkey will welcome an anticipated 70 guests for the launch on-board, at 11.15am.
Mr Hawkey will introduce iwi representatives Michael Skerrett, of Waihopai runanga, and Stewart Bull, of Oraka-Aparima runaka, who will deliver a mihi and perform a karakia.
Real Journeys chairman Bill Baylis, of Queenstown, and Mr English will speak, then Rev Karl Lamb, of Te Anau, will give a blessing.
Queenstown resident Abbe Hutchins, adult grandchild of Les and Olive Hutchins, who founded Real Journeys in 1954, will break the wine bottle and christen MV Sinbad at 12.15pm.
Guests will then embark on a cruise which includes lunch.
Mr Hawkey said the vessel was testimony to the quality of craftsmanship and expertise in local shipbuilding.
Vital statistics
MV Sinbad
Hull constructed by Sheet Metalcraft Ltd, of Invercargill.
Fit-out by Real Journeys.
Design concept by: Real Journeys company engineer Jim Young.
Designed by: Duffill Watts, now CPG New Zealand Ltd.
Overall length: 21m
Waterline length: 19.1m
Power: Twin Series 60 MTU (moto-turbo union)
Gearboxes: Twin disc
Passengers: 75
Crew: Three
Speed: 12 knots
