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Prince William and Kate Middleton share an intimate moment on unique boat ride across Auckland Harbour


April 11, 2014
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Prince William and Kate Middleton's day out at Auckland Harbour was topped off by a unique boating experience when the royal couple enjoyed a ride on an amphibious marine craft.

Having just competed against each other in a fun yacht race, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge took to the New Zealand waters for a second time on Friday, this time to enjoy a more relaxed ride together.

kate middletong© Photo: Getty Images

The couple departed Queen City aboard the "Sealegs" amphibious aircraft, which as the name suggests, takes passengers from land to sea and back to land, in a somewhat seamless transition. The genius vehicle was invented in New Zealand, with the company saying it was a "privilege" to host William and Kate on their seacraft.

Prince William and Kate talk baby Prince George on visit to Auckland 

kate middleton© Photo: Getty Images

Kate, 32, went casual chic for the excursion, opting for dark skinny jeans and a Breton striped top from Me + Em, along with a life jacket and sensible deck shoes.

She dressed up her relaxed gear with a pair of £695 Grace Collection white topaz and diamond stud earrings by London jeweller Kiki McDonough, according to reports.

prince william© Photo: Getty Images

The damp weather didn't get her spirits down, as the Duchess was pictured looking delighted at sailing out to Westpark Marina.

William, meanwhile, looked just as relaxed after a day of competing - and losing - against his wife in the "informal" yacht races.

As the royal couple sailed across the sea, they enjoyed a moment alone in what is a packed schedule, smiling happily as they sat together on the boat.

kate middleton© Photo: Getty Images

After a short ride, the Royal Highnesses arrived at the marina where they were presented with their very own mini-Sealegs vessel, complete with a huge red bow.

They then returned to the Whenuapai Air Force base to catch their hour-long flight back to Wellington.

boat and port © Photo: Getty Images

The Duke and Duchess had given local crowds much entertainment earlier that afternoon, as they were tasked with boarding separate Emirates Team New Zealand Americas Cup yachts to compete in the race.

William and Kate eagerly got into the competitive spirit, cheering their teams on as well as having a go at steering, with the Duchess' team crowned the winner.

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