The Crusader takes up to 150 visitors directly from Nelson to the national park via Kaiteriteri Beach, making up to two trips per day. Once she reaches Kaiteriteri, more passengers board for the run into the park. The leg from Nelson to Kaiteriteri takes 45 minutes, which Keith reckons is about half the time of the bus trip. From Kaiteriteri to the near end of the national park is about 10 minutes and it's another 90 minutes to get up to the top end after calling in and out of all the bays. "We are also encouraging people who stay in Nelson to consider spending a few days closer to the park exploring the Abel Tasman region and all it has to offer," says sales and marketing manager Mark Chapman. "It opens up many opportunities for visitors in our region." So, why the Nelson crossing, when others have tried
and failed. Says Keith: "The simple answer is we have designed and built a boat specifically for the crossing, with both comfort and speed in mind." Her twin 478kW, 12 litre DI12M Scania marine diesels
drive a new pod-style propulsion system designed to allow a shallow draft of only 700mm aft and maximum performance with low vibration. This, along with her unusual ability to tilt and raise the
engine and pod some 650mm, enables her to operate in the shallows and carry out beach loadings at all stages of the tide within the park. The topsides have been kept low so she can pass under bridges and she has a spacious and well laid out observation deck on top so travellers can rapidly relax
Ready for launch day
"We have designed and built a boat specifically for the crossing, with both comfort and speed in mind"
into holiday mood and enjoy the passing scenery. The main passenger saloon is spacious and airy, with comfortable seating and a functional décor. The large viewing windows slide open so those who choose not to venture upstairs can also enjoy uninterrupted views. The café provides refreshments and snacks as well as souvenirs. DVDs and a 25in flat LCD television screen show previews of the experience during the ride from
Power to propel both vessels and machinery.
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VIPWB1 V P.WB1
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NZ WORKBOAT REVIEW 2012 53
