Explore New Zealand’s Bay of Islands to experience its pristine beaches and lush forests, where nature trails wind past lofty kauri trees, subtropical rainforest and cascading waterfalls.
Explore the Bay of Islands on an island-hopping day cruise aboard this luxurious sailboat. Snorkel, swim, and look for dolphins!
Relax on the Deck
The Bay of Islands has earned itself an international reputation as one of the premier sailing grounds. Boasting endless sheltered bays, clear waters and an ideal climate, you can either cruise with an experienced skipper or take control yourself (known as “bareboating”).
Discover subtropical islands and Maori heritage sites aboard this island-hopping cruise from Paihia. Travel through the Hole in the Rock – an acclaimed marine wildlife spot – while watching dolphins dance alongside your boat.
Relax aboard a sleek, spacious catamaran while taking in breathtaking Bay of Islands scenery and possibly dolphin sightings during this three-day and two-night cruise of the Bay of Islands. Thanks to a small group size, this ecocruise provides an intimate and enjoyable experience with plenty of opportunities for kayaking, snorkelling, fishing and hiking while taking in all of its breathtaking marine wildlife.
Visit Russell to experience the legendary Duke of Marlborough pub – an historic tavern that once served as Zane Grey’s hangout back in the thirties – or, for those feeling daring enough, try your hand at gunkholing – hunting seabirds with spearfish.
Snorkel
Start off your sailing experience in style on this luxurious sailboat through the Bay of Islands on this deluxe sailboat! Help out on deck while taking in stunning coastal and island views as well as marine life along your voyage. After stopping over at an island for two hours, jump into the water for snorkeling or paddleboarding before relaxing on a beachside to take it all in.
The subtropical Bay of Islands is an idyllic boater’s haven, boasting sheltered coves, sandy beaches and clear waters that attract boaters from around the globe. Enjoy watching dolphins, whales, seals and seabirds as you cruise its 144 islands!
North of Auckland lies the Bay of Islands; an ideal boat trip destination. Spend your day discovering its captivating islands and beautiful beaches while being guided by an expert local guide. Visit historic sites such as Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Haruru Falls, Kemp House and Rewa’s Village before experiencing traditional Maori culture through an immersive ‘hangi’ dinner performance and performance! This trip provides the ideal opportunity to learn about Maori culture here in New Zealand.
Explore the Bay
The Bay of Islands is a stunning region full of stunning coves and clear waters, making it an idyllic cruising destination with numerous boats, ferries and cruises sailing out to its islands. Relax on its beach or go snorkeling – whatever you choose in this amazing region there’s sure to be something fun waiting!
Paihia and Russell are two main towns in the Bay of Islands and each offers various accommodation options; however, Paihia tends to be busier due to its greater population; on the contrary, Russell offers more authentic experiences that remain quiet throughout most of the year.
Begin your voyage around the Bay of Islands on a scenic cruise and discover subtropical islands, Maori heritage sites and golden beaches. Take in stunning sights such as Motukokako Island’s Hole in the Rock as you cruise by 144 islands; stopover at remote island stopover for snorkeling, swimming or hike to lookout point; guide will share stories and history about area as you sail past; includes lunch as well as marine mammal viewing opportunities! This half day cruise also offers marine mammal watching opportunities!
Have a Meal
Sailing doesn’t need to be an intimidating or confusing activity – it can be an enjoyable, beautiful experience that appeals to people of all ages! Join a luxury yacht’s crew in sailing around the Bay of Islands; relax while taking in breathtaking scenery or actively join in by helping hoist sails or climbing the rigging.
Explore a diverse marine wildlife collection while sailing in the Bay of Islands. It serves as a dolphin sanctuary, and pods of them can often be seen playing around in its calm waters. Keep your eyes peeled for seabirds, seals and penguins too!
Spend your day sailing around the islands aboard a luxurious sailboat, unwinding at a beautiful and secluded beach and kayaking, swimming, snorkelling or taking an optional guided walk up to an observation point with your captain while learning about local history and heritage.
Unleash your inner adventurer as you venture deep into a subtropical rainforest with your guide, trekking along an easier trail to see towering kauri trees, cascading waterfalls and rare plants and animals – then relax over multilayered hangi pit-cooked meal before watching energetic Maori culture shows at historic Waitangi Treaty signing site!
Watch the Sunset
An evening sunset cruise in the Bay of Islands offers the ideal way to unwind after a busy day of work or exploring its stunning landscapes. Catch a beautiful view as the sun goes down over an idyllic scene while sipping bubbly on your boat ride and admiring all its sights from your vessel. Additionally, many tours include dinner so that you can dine as you watch the sun go down.
Beat the crowds on a small-group half-day tour and discover two beautiful islands. Snorkel pristine island reefs, try stand-up paddle boarding, hike viewpoints to look for marine wildlife and experience local knowledge as you sail in an affordable motorboat able to access areas larger ships cannot. Your guide will share local history as you journey.
Explore New Zealand’s 144 islands on this exciting sailing journey from Paihia. Spend the day sailing between its islands on a luxurious sailboat, sailing directly through Hole in the Rock (weather permitting), stopping off at idyllic islands for lunch, kayak or snorkel session or to discover Maori heritage sites before returning back home again – keep an eye out for dolphins swimming and playing as you return.