--         Depart Waikawa for the 90 minute cruise to the outer Queen Charlotte Sound and Motuara Island. Today a bird sanctuary, but in 1770 the island was where Captain Cook raised the British flag and claimed the South Island for King George III.
Once on Motuara Island, you will encounter in abundance, native bellbirds, south island saddlebacks, wood pigeons, robins and the residens blue penguins.
The views from Captain James Cook lookout are absolutely fantastic.

-      A short 10 minute transit to Ship's Cove and anchor for lunch off the beach where Cook careened the Endeavour and his sailors carried out repairs, replenished wood, water, and fish supplies and traded with local Maori.

-         For those wanting to work off lunch there is the 90 minute walk from Ship's Cove over the ridge and down into Resolution Bay.  This is the first part of the renowned Queen Charlotte Track and is often said to be the most spectacular and scenic section.

-         For the less energetic, exploring Ship's Cove, viewing the Cook monument erected in 1919, and protecting your valuables from the inquisitive and cheeky Weka's, completes your visit to this most historic and beautiful area.

-         Departing for the cruise back to Waikawa, Overture will take you into a number of bush clad bays and inlets as time permits and will arrive back in the marina at approximately 4:30.