Not everyone is fortunate enough to set foot on a cruise ship, but eight local Tauranga children walked the Radiance of the Seas for a whole day.

YOU Travel Tauranga organised for eight foster children from Homes of Hope, along with 12 caregivers and staff, to spend a day on-board the luxury cruise ship Radiance of the Seas while it was in port in Tauranga earlier this month.

While on-board, the children experienced the decadence the Radiance of the Seas has to offers including swimming in the saltwater pool and spa while watching a movie, rock climbing, basketball and mini golf on the ship, no-holds-barred access to an all-you-can-eat buffet including the chance to make their own burgers and hotdogs, and a photo on the ship's heliport.

'YOU Travel would like to encourage other businesses and individuals to consider supporting local charities not just with sponsorships, but also with once-in-a-lifetime experiences,” says YOU Travel director Catherine Membery.

'Activities that the recipients will never forget and hopefully make them feel special and cared for.”

Contact Homes of Hope CEO Hilary Price 07 578 9826 or visit: www.homesofhope.org.nz to find out how you can make a difference for these local children.