9 September 2011
Real Journeys Invests In Precision Military Technology For The Milford Road
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.
The new tracking device has just been installed on the two new Volvo B12B coaches that are in use over the winter
months, 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.
"During the winter months the Milford Road can be challenging. Our drivers receive special training for the conditions
and our coaches are purpose built, but the lack of communication on the Milford Road is something we've been trying to
overcome for a long time. After much research and testing on the Milford Road, this technology proved streets ahead of
anything else. We think our passengers will appreciate this extra safety precaution that no one else is offering," said
David Osborne Real Journeys Coach Operations Manager.
The Volvo B12B coaches have been specifically designed for the Milford Road, and have 3-point safety belts, whilst 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.
ABOUT REAL JOURNEYS
Real Journeys is a locally owned and operated company that has guided excursions into the southern region for more than
50 years. It operates in Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, Queenstown and Stewart Island. For more information please
visit: www.realjourneys.co.nz
ends