Written by Jane Dennis
If you want to relax, meet new people and have a bit of fun in Paihia in the Bay of Islands, then best you book a night out on Darryl’s Dinner Cruise.
But don’t be fooled into thinking Darryl’s Dinner Cruise will be a quiet intimate affair – it’s far from it. Instead, it’s an absolute hoot because Skipper, Darryl Honey, who prides himself on his 16.5 metre boat, ‘Ratanui’ (which he designed and built with the help of experts), oozes enthusiasm. Before you know it you will have to swallow your pride and don some hideous glasses, while introducing yourself to the crew and your fellow dinner cruise diners (also wearing equally hideous glasses). It’s a laugh-out-loud introduction and a great way to get to know the other members on board!
The two and a half hour cruise across the bay and down the Waitangi River to Haruru Falls sails at 6:30pm from the Charter Pier on Paihia Wharf. – And if dinner isn’t in your itinerary, then Darryl takes a lunch cruise to Russell.
Darryl’s knack of mimicking people, wacky humour and wicked tales, such as nicotine-addicted dolphins, provides a friendly atmosphere and keeps the crowd entertained throughout the journey. It’s a fun way to learn about one of our country’s historical river ports, along with the wildlife, and a great start to the evening. The fact that you can move about, chat at the bar while munching on freshly cooked NZ green lip mussels, prawns, ciabatta bread and dips is a bonus!
The layout of the boat is well designed (the boat can float at 300mls). The dim lighting on the boat, music playing in the background and comfy leather seats provide a stylish atmosphere. But its Darryl’s uncanny way of getting everyone to mingle that forces you off your seats to make the effort that makes the experience. It’s no wonder Darryl’s Dinner Cruise is an award winning venue.
A crowd pleaser is when Darryl parks the boat up in front of the 40ft deep Haruru Falls and his custom-made tables appear from the ceiling of the boat and are lowered in time for dinner! The Harura Falls create a spectacular backdrop for dining on your choice of mains, whether it is succulent t-bone steaks, mouth watering Moroccan spiced lamb or tasty blue cod (all served with gourmet potatoes and freshly baked bread and salads). It is a taste to remember.
After dinner you get to enjoy the return ride (with the warm breeze on your cheeks) back to Paihia.
