Real Journeys has invested in Trac Plus, a premium satellite tracking service used by a range of military and emergency services, as an extra safety precaution for its coach passengers travelling to Milford Sound, New Zealand. The new tracking device has just been installed on two new Volvo B12B coaches and will be extended to the rest of the fleet in the future. There is virtually no cell phone coverage on the Milford Road and the high surrounding mountain ranges and deep valleys make radio contact almost impossible. With just two land based telephones available en route, there are periods of about an hour when no communication is available with the coach driver. Trac Plus provides coach tracking, emergency distress and satellite text messaging in those remote areas, with most messages received within 20 seconds. The Volvo B12B coaches have been specifically designed for the Milford Road, and have 3-point safety belts, while their unique angled “bullet” shape, use of tiered seating and expansive glass is designed to maximise passenger viewing. Built to be as fuel efficient as possible, the latest coaches have the low Euro V emissions ratings and the added benefit of WiFi (where networks allow). As well as being available for an emergency, the Trac Plus system will enable Real Journeys staff to monitor the progress of the coaches along the road so they are aware of any delays.
Real Journeys is a private family-owned company that has been operating in southern New Zealand for more than half a century. Over the years we have gained a reputation for our innovation in developing new tourism excursions and our strong conservation ethos. Today, Real Journeys is recognised as a market leader, providing high-quality excursions for visitors from around the globe.