Real Journeys 2017 Cruise-for-a-Cause raises $43,700

Media Release

The annual Real Journeys Cruise-for-a-Cause to Milford and Doubtful Sounds has raised a total of $43,700 for Forest & Bird and the Cancer Society (Otago and Southland Division) this year.   

Forty-five Cancer Society supporters enjoyed the extremes on their Milford Sound Overnight Cruise last weekend.  Their coach left Te Anau in warmth and sunshine - returning in heavy snow.  They swam, kayaked and experienced the quiet serenity of Milford Sound in the afternoon and in the evening hit the “dance floor” on the Milford Mariner with live music and song.

Cruise-for-a-Cause 2017: exploring the fiord in one of the ship's tendercraft

Marie Wales, Manager Supportive Care Services says that is the trademark of those involved in the Cancer Society.  “They know how to enjoy life!”

The Cancer Society will receive over $13,600 which will be used to train more volunteers and provide much needed resources for the support team, as demand for its services has increased 60% in the last two years. 

“It’s such a privilege to be involved in such a great fund-raising initiative, especially as you really get to spend some quality time with people who care about the work that we do.  Your team made it a trip to be remembered and for that we are extremely appreciative,” says Marie.

The Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society received almost $30,100 for its sold out its Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise held in early September.  Forest & Bird Chief Executive and former Green Party MP Kevin Hague gave a special presentation about the society's long history to the seventy guests on board the Fiordland Navigator.  It was Forest & Bird's second successful Cruise-for-a-Cause, last year they went to Milford Sound. This year's funds will be used to support more predator control. 

“It was an absolute privilege to visit Doubtful Sound, one of the few remaining wilderness areas left in New Zealand, and a timely reminder of the importance of protecting and restoring all of our wild places before it is too late,” says Kevin.

Since 2015, Real Journeys has provided the first overnight cruise of the season at no cost (including dinner and breakfast) so that charitable or not-for-profit organisations can sell all the tickets and keep 100% of the proceeds.  So far the initiative has raised over $100,000 for six organisations including the Yellow-Eyed Penguin Trust, Wakatipu High School Foundation and Queenstown Lakes Family Centre. 
Applications for next year’s Cruise-for-a-Cause will open in November.