As the paddle steamer Waimarie prepares for the 2017/18 summer season, the Waimarie Operating Trust took key partners on a familiarisation trip on Thursday, October 12.
Manager/trustee Ann Petherick said the 50 guests, including accommodation providers, tourism operators, business owners and media, were joined by about 20 trust members, staff crew and volunteers.
"The idea is to give everyone a feeling of what we do," Mrs Petherick said.
"We wanted to let them know about our special trips and charters, the history of the vessel for those who don't know about it and highlights on the route.
"There are quite a lot of accommodation providers who are new and weren't here last season and we also have quite a few new volunteers who are doing their first official sailing."