In a conversation with Valeriu Balitchi and Captain Barlow Rawiri, the Chamber delved into what the Wahinemoe offers our community and its visitors.
Wahinemoe, a 15m x 5m two-story catamaran, custom-built in 2010 specifically for Raglan Harbour. Val is leading the customer development and lead skipper Barlow is a true Raglan prankster who is deeply dedicated to the community and has been with Wahinemoe from day one.
Their signature public cruises include both lunchtime and sunset, each lasting 90 minutes. On these journeys, they narrate Raglan’s captivating history, Māori culture, and many intriguing points of interest with Barlow’s humorous storytelling. Passengers can savour fresh fish and chips delivered direct from Raglan Fish, enjoy a drink from the licensed “Raglan Bar”, and just soak in the relaxed Raglan atmosphere they wish to share with the world.
The Wahinemoe boasts a maximum capacity of 70 passengers and 5 crew for private charters, with both covered indoor and a half covered outdoor areas. It’s the perfect setting for corporate functions, birthday celebrations, wedding receptions, hens’ parties, or any special gathering. Wahinemoe and Whāingaroa is a discrete place to have some fun away from the crowds, they love water toys, ‘‘ if it floats, we will take it with us.’’ They provide a Super Yacht experience.
The team are dedicated to preserving our harbour’s beauty. They support school beach cleaning trips and raise public awareness for Karioi project, harbour care and cooperate with all the water sports adventure operators to ensure Raglan has a consistent customer experience.
Contact: www.raglanboatcharters.co.nz and 07 825 6522
by Emma Langdon
