Multi-awarded TRUE NORTH has completed a major makeover for both their small ships, True North and True North II – preparing both vessels for another year of action-packed adventures around Australia, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. With TRUE NORTH’s discerning guests expecting nothing but the best, no expense has been spared to ensure that both ships remain in showroom condition, while introducing some innovative new features.
Guests joining the much anticipated 2024 Kimberley season will be the first to experience one of the more significant changes from the refit – the new Ocean Premium Cabin class, available on True North. Responding to guests’ calls for more flexible and adaptable room settings, the new cabin class offers just that by offering the choice of a twin share or double bed layout when booking the new cabin class.
‘As always, our focus remains on providing once-in-a-lifetime adventures for those joining us aboard True North or True North II. While guests will typically be spending the majority of their time exploring off the vessels – whether this be snorkelling, fishing or enjoying a heli-picnic – we want to ensure that their time on deck or recharging in their cabins is in the most relaxing environment possible’ says Chad Avenell, Director, TRUE NORTH.
The renovations were led by Australian owned and operated Echo Yachts, one of the country’s leading shipbuilders. Aside from True North’s II new cabin class, the comprehensive refit included an overhaul and rebuild of the gearboxes, with both generators receiving a top-end rebuild. Externally, the both vessels received new paint jobs and crane overhauling.
‘As a 100% Australian owned and operated shipbuilding and sustainment company, we are proud to have supported TRUE NORTH on their annual refit. As a quintessentially Australian operator, we have long admired how they tirelessly work to showcase the best WA has to offer, as well as the broader country’ says Mark Stothard, Managing Director, Echo Marine Group.
“In partnership with TRUE NORTH’s experienced crew, we have worked hard to ensure both vessels are back in the water at the highest standard, ready to explore our great wilderness’ Nick Gee, Chief Operating Office, Echo Marine Group adds.
Other innovations for the 2024 season include TRUE NORTH’s vessels moving to become fully paperless for chart navigation – allowing for greater precision, efficiency and consistency whilst navigating through shallow waters and remote destinations.