SAILING CHARTERS AND TOURS IN THE BAY OF ISLANDS
Small-Group and Private Sailing Experiences Exploring Hidden Bays, Beautiful Islands and Marine Wildlife.
Discover the Bay of Islands on a Sailing Charter
Explore the Bay of Islands aboard our spacious catamaran. Our small-group sailing charters offer a relaxed way to discover hidden bays, stunning islands, and crystal-clear waters while enjoying a memorable coastal adventure.
With fewer guests onboard, there is plenty of space to relax, move around, and enjoy a more personal sailing experience with local knowledge of the Bay of Islands.
Find Your Perfect Bay of Islands Sailing Experience
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon sail, a full day of island exploration, or an exclusive private charter, we have an experience to suit every group.
MOST POPULAR
Shared Day Charter – From Paihia
A full day sailing adventure with an island stop for swimming, paddle boarding, snorkeling or exploring the island on a self guided walk.
PRIVATE GROUPS
Private Charter – Bay Of Islands
Exclusive use of the boat for a personalised sailing experience with your family or friends.
SHORT CRUISE
Afternoon Sailing Cruise – From Paihia
A relaxed 2 hour scenic sail – the perfect sailing experience if you’re short on time.
THE BAYSCAPES DIFFERENCE
Why Sail with Bayscapes?
Escape the crowds and experience the Bay of Islands differently. Our small group Sailing Charters give you more time to relax, explore hidden bays, and enjoy the journey at a slower pace.
No crowds. No rush. Just an unforgettable day on the water.
What Makes Us Different
Enjoy a more personal sailing experience with a maximum of just 19 guests onboard.
We choose sheltered anchorages each day to make the most of the conditions, providing calmer waters and a more enjoyable experience.
Experience real sailing powered by the wind—simple, scenic, and stress-free.
Take your time to relax, soak up the scenery, and enjoy every moment on the water.
Swim, snorkel, paddle board, and explore secluded bays in some of the Bay of Islands’ most beautiful locations.
Our experienced local crew know the Bay of Islands and will take you to beautiful locations chosen for the day’s conditions.
What Our Guests Say About Their Bay of Islands Sailing Experience
Discover why travellers consistently rate Bayscapes as one of the best sailing experiences in the Bay of Islands. Read authentic Google reviews from couples, families and groups who’ve sailed with us.
Explore, Swim & Relax
Discover More Than Just Sailing
Every charter is different, but every trip is designed to help you experience the very best of the Bay of Islands. From relaxing under sail to swimming, exploring islands and spotting wildlife, there’s something for everyone.
ISLAND STOP
Step ashore to explore secluded beaches and walking tracks.
PADDLE BOARDING
Glide across calm bays and explore at your own pace.
WILDLIFE WATCHING
Look out for dolphins, seabirds and other marine life in the Bay of Islands.
SAILING
Enjoy peaceful sailing through one of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastlines.
SNORKELING & SWIMMING
Discover vibrant marine life and swim in the clear, sheltered waters of the Bay of Islands.
LUNCH ONBOARD
Enjoy a freshly prepared meal while anchored in a quiet bay on select charters.
MEET THE BOAT: OUR SAILING CATAMARAN
Spacious. Stable. Built for Relaxing.
Our 40-foot catamaran is designed for comfort, with small groups so there’s plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the Bay of Islands.
You can unwind in the saloon or head outside to lounge on deck beanbags. Or step onto the forward nets and watch the water glide beneath you. Our crew takes care of everything, so you can simply relax, take in the scenery, and enjoy your time on the water.
BOAT HIGHLIGHTS
144 ISLANDS TO DISCOVER
Explore Islands, Wildlife, and Hidden Bays
The Bay of Islands is home to 144 unique islands, each offering its own mix of sheltered bays, native bush, and crystal-clear waters. On our sailing charters, you’ll have the opportunity to step ashore on beautiful island sanctuaries such as Moturua Island, where self-guided walks lead through native forest and coastal viewpoints.
Depending on the season and conditions, you may spot playful dolphins, little blue penguins, diving gannets and a variety of native seabirds as we sail through the Bay of Islands.
With every trip, our crew selects the best locations based on conditions, ensuring calm anchorages, stunning scenery, and an immersive experience surrounded by nature.
Quick FAQs – Bay of Islands Sailing Cruises
Yes. We offer small-group shared sailing charters as well as private charters for families, couples, and groups.
Shared charters depart directly from Paihia Wharf in the Bay of Islands, making it easy to step straight from Paihia Town onto the boat and begin your journey. Private charters offer flexible pickup options from either Paihia, Russell, or Waitangi Wharf for your convenience.
We keep our sailing experience small and personal, with a maximum of 19 guests onboard to ensure comfort, space, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Yes – on select trips like our Shared Day Charter or our Private Sail and Stop which include an island stop there will be time to enjoy swimming, snorkelling, and paddle boarding at a sheltered island bay.
Safety always comes first. If conditions are not suitable for sailing, we will communicate with you to either reschedule your trip or offer alternative arrangements depending on availability.
Dolphins are regularly seen in the Bay of Islands, and sightings are common during our sailing charters. As they are wild animals, we can’t guarantee you’ll see them on every trip. We always follow New Zealand wildlife regulations, observing dolphins respectfully from a safe distance to protect their natural behaviour. You may also spot little blue penguins, seabirds, and other marine life along the way.
- Jacket/Jumper; the breeze gets stronger when you are sailing so bring a jumper even if the weather looks good. In any case we do have a indoor saloon for your comfort.
- Sunglasses and Sunhat
- Any drinks or snacks you wish. Fridge available onboard
For day trips;
- Swimwear and a towel
- Walking shoes; Shoes are to be taken off upon boarding but do bring sneakers/shoes if you are planning on doing our island walk.
We have storage room onboard for your bags. When onboard you will be directed to an area to stow your gear.
The Bay of Islands is a fantastic destination from September to May, offering warm weather, calm seas, and excellent conditions for sailing. At Bayscapes Charters, our sailing season runs throughout this period.
December to February is the busiest time of year, with warm temperatures and lively summer holiday atmosphere. If you prefer a quieter experience, February and March are often considered the best months to visit, with warm sea temperatures, fewer crowds than January, and ideal conditions for swimming, snorkelling, and sailing.
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