Shared Day Sailing Charter with Island Stop | Bay of Islands

A 6 hour sailing adventure exploring hidden bays, wildlife islands and clear waters, with lunch included.

Escape the crowds on a relaxed 6-hour sailing adventure through the Bay of Islands. Visit secluded islands, swim, snorkel, paddle board and enjoy a catered lunch while taking in the spectacular coastal scenery.

Maximum 19 guests
Island Stop
Swimming, Snorkelling
Paihia Departure

From $215 per person

Hibiscus Star sailing catamaran with guests relaxing on deck, Bayscapes Sailing Charters, Bay of Islands
6 Hour Sailing Charter
Paihia Wharf Departure – Easy boarding directly from the wharf
2 Hour Island Stop – Explore a predator-free wildlife sanctuary
Swimming, Snorkelling & Paddle Boarding
Island Walk – Optional self-guided walk through native bush
Catered Lunch – Dietary options available
Maximum 19 Guests
Comfortable Sailing Catamaran – Spacious indoor and outdoor areas, toilet and hot outdoor shower
Free Cancellation up to 24 hours

A look at a typical day exploring the Bay of Islands aboard our shared day sailing charter.

9:20am – Check In
Meet your crew at Paihia Wharf and board the boat.

9:30am – Depart Paihia
Receive a safety briefing before setting sail into the Bay of Islands.

10:00am Scenic Sailing
Relax and enjoy panoramic views as we sail towards your island destination.

11:30am – Island Stop
Drop anchor at a sheltered bay chosen according to the day’s conditions.

11:40am – Island Walk*
Explore native bush and discover local birdlife on an optional self-guided walk.

12:15pm – Water Activities*
Enjoy time in the water with swimming, paddle boarding and snorkelling.

1:00pm – Lunch
Enjoy a catered lunch onboard while anchored in the bay.

1:30pm – Sail Back to Paihia
Set sail for Paihia and enjoy more views of the Bay of Islands along the way.

3:15–3:30pm – Return to Paihia Wharf
Disembark after a relaxing day on the water

*Activities are optional

  • Jacket or Jumper — conditions can feel cooler while sailing.
  • Swimwear and a towel
  • Sunglasses and Sunhat
  • Walking shoes — for the optional island walk. Shoes are removed when boarding.
  • Drinks & snacks — you’re welcome to bring your own; a fridge is available onboard.

Storage is available onboard for your bags.

Travellers wanting a small-group sailing experience
Couples seeking a relaxing day on the water
Families wanting a safe island adventure
Cruise ship visitors exploring Paihia
Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts
Guests Relaxing on beanbags and the deck of a sailing catamaran in the Bay of Islands

Unlike larger sightseeing boats, our small-group charter gives you more space and a more personal way to explore the Bay of Islands.

Small Groups

Maximum 19 guests for a more personal experience.

Real Sailing

Feel the wind in the sails and experience the Bay of Islands under sail.

Local Knowledge

Our local crew share knowledge of the islands, wildlife and region.

More Time To Explore

Swim, walk, paddle or simply relax without rushing from one stop to the next.

Wondering what a day onboard Bayscapes is really like? Hear from guests who have explored the Bay of Islands with us.

Explore The Bay Of Islands

Discover More With An Island Stop

Our destination is a peaceful island anchorage where we spend approximately two hours enjoying the natural beauty of the Bay of Islands. During this stop, guests can choose from a range of optional activities — enjoy one or try them all:

Guests walk part of the track of Moturua Island while on a sail and hike charter with Bayscapes Charters

Enjoy a self-guided walk through native bush and discover the island’s natural beauty.

Guests snorkelling in clear blue water during a sailing charter

Swim, snorkel or paddle board in the clear, sheltered waters of the Bay of Islands.

A couple sits on beanbags at the front of a catamaran, soaking up the sun and the serene ocean surroundings on a sailing charter in the Bay of Islands.

Stay aboard, soak up the scenery and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

a lady takes a picture of two little blue penguins while on a sailing catamaran charter

Wildlife & Island Conservation

The Bay of Islands is home to abundant marine life and predator-free wildlife sanctuary islands. Keep watch for dolphins, seabirds, little blue penguins and other marine life as you sail between the islands.

During the island stop, explore native bush and discover the conservation work helping restore New Zealand’s native birdlife.

Wildlife sightings are common but cannot be guaranteed. We follow responsible wildlife-viewing practices and respect marine protection guidelines.

Catamaran sailing charter in the Bay of Islands with guests relaxing on deck

A shorter scenic sailing experience through the Bay of Islands.

View Afternoon Cruise
guests on a private catamaran sailing charter

Enjoy the boat exclusively with your own group.

View Private Charters

Our shared day sailing charter typically departs from Paihia Wharf at 9:30am. Please arrive 10 minutes prior to departure for boarding. We return between 3:15 – 3:30pm

Yes, a catered lunch is included. Dietary requirements can be arranged with advance notice.

No sailing experience is required. Our crew handles all sailing but we love to answer any questions you have about sailing along the way.

Wildlife sightings are common in the Bay of Islands, but they cannot be guaranteed. Dolphins, seabirds, stingrays and other marine life may be spotted during the charter.

We recommend a jacket, swimwear, towel, sunhat, sunglasses and walking shoes. You’re also welcome to bring your own drinks and snacks.

YOUR SAILING ESCAPE AWAITS
Ready to Discover the Bay of Islands?

Join one of our relaxed small-group sailing charters or book the whole boat for your own private adventure.

• Small Groups • Private & Shared Charters • Paihia Departures •

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