Island Cruising began in the 1980s when Don and Jenny Mundell set out to attract more sailors to Tonga. Their success quickly grew into the Island Cruising Association, which soon became well known in New Zealand, the Pacific, and beyond.
For 40 years, Island Cruising has helped sailors face the challenges of heading offshore. From handling customs paperwork to finding crew, each generation of owners has shaped the group into a trusted support hub for cruisers.
Brian and Joan Hepburn took over in 1995. They introduced preparation courses covering offshore safety, seamanship, and liferaft training. They also published respected books on South Pacific sailing. In 2007, John and Lyn Martin continued the tradition, leading rallies on their yacht Windflower and creating detailed cruising guides and databases that remain a vital resource today.
In 2017 Nigel and Amanda Richards purchased the business, operating it from their yacht Varekai. After COVID disrupted Pacific rallies, they passed the helm in 2021 to Canterbury sailor Viki Moore. Since then, Moore has expanded Island Cruising further, uniting it with Australia’s Down Under Rally to strengthen regional connections.
To celebrate its 40th anniversary, Island Cruising will host a reunion on 29 November at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron. Past and present members, partners, and rally participants are invited to share stories, reconnect, and celebrate the next chapter of Kiwi offshore cruising.
For more information visit islandcruising.nz
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