Shared Sailing Charters Bay of Islands

Join our shared sailing charters for an exciting adventure on the open sea. Meet new friends while exploring breathtaking coastlines and hidden gems in the Bay of Islands

two friends relax on a catamaran with a full day sailing charter

Embark on our signature 6 hour sailing charter. Experience the Bay of Islands fully with an island stop for all of our water activities, island exploration, lunch and more onboard our sailing catamaran.

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

Join us for a memorable 2-hour afternoon sailing cruise through the Bay of Islands harbour. Enjoy breathtaking scenery, refreshing breezes, and a relaxing atmosphere on the water.

Catamaran sailing in the Bay of Islands with wide decks and ocean views

Join our shared sailing charters departing from Paihia in the Bay of Islands, Northland. Designed for small groups, our shared charters offer a relaxed and social way to explore secluded islands, sheltered bays, and native wildlife habitats. Whether you are visiting Paihia, Russell, or the wider Bay of Islands region, this experience provides one of the best ways to discover New Zealand’s spectacular coastline.

Our shared sailing cruises offer the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Spend your day:

  • Taking in panoramic ocean views
  • Sailing through stunning island scenery
  • Meeting fellow travellers
  • Enjoying island stops and coastal walks

Our spacious catamaran provides plenty of room to relax, whether you prefer lounging on deck, enjoying the view from the saloon, or socialising with other guests. Unlike larger tour boats, our shared charters operate with small groups, allowing more space, flexibility, and access to quieter island locations.

Depending on the charter, you may visit a beautiful island where you can explore native bush, enjoy the beach, or simply relax in a peaceful setting. Our crew selects the best locations based on conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Duration: 2 to 6 hours
Departure Location: Paihia Wharf
Group Size: Maximum of 19 guests
Activities: Sailing, island walks, swimming, paddleboarding
Best For: Couples, families, and small groups
Location: Bay of Islands, Northland

Guests enjoy an unforgettable moment onboard a sailing catamaran charter in the bay of islands

Choose the sailing experience that suits your schedule, group size, and level of adventure.

what we offer

experiences available on our catamaran

Boats sailing in the Bay of Islands

SAILING

Feel the wind fill the sails as we glide across the ocean. Cruise past rugged headlands, secluded coves, and untouched island bays that can only be reached by boat — all while relaxing aboard our spacious catamaran.

Guests hiking on Motuarohia / Roberton Island with panoramic Bay of Islands views during a sailing charter

ISLAND EXPLORATION

Step ashore on one of the Bay of Islands’ beautiful island sanctuaries. Explore native bush and coastal trails, discover panoramic viewpoints, spot native birdlife, and experience the natural beauty that makes this region so special.

Guests stand up paddle boarding in calm waters during a Bay of Islands sailing trip

PADDLE BOARDING

Glide across calm waters on a stand-up paddle board and explore peaceful island bays at your own pace. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the quiet beauty of the Bay of Islands while soaking up the scenery from the water.

Guest wearing a snorkel and mask, snorkelling in clear blue water during a sailing charter

SNORKELING & SWIMMING

Dive into clear waters or enjoy a refreshing swim in sheltered bays selected for their calm conditions. Discover vibrant marine life and enjoy safe, enjoyable time in the water.

Catamaran sailing in the Bay of Islands with clear blue water and island scenery in the background during a private charter

Hibiscus Star is a spacious 40ft (12m) catamaran that is both grand and comfortable. Hibiscus Star features a lovely indoor saloon with 180 degree ocean views, so you can relax out of the weather while still enjoying the view. Step outside to the helm area, where you can get a close up view of our Captain at work. Up the front, the forward deck has two tramps so you can watch the water beneath you as we glide across the water, or choose one of our beanbags to lounge on.

Whether you are celebrating a special occasion, planning a family day out or seeking a peaceful escape our catamaran and dedicated crew will provide the perfect day for maximum comfort so you can focus on enjoying the scenery, marine life and calm coastal atmosphere that define the Bay of Islands.

Shared sailing charters offer a relaxed and social way to explore the Bay of Islands without the cost of a private charter. They are ideal for travellers who want to enjoy scenic sailing, island exploration, and wildlife encounters while sharing the experience with others. With small group sizes and experienced local crew, shared charters provide comfort, safety, and authentic local knowledge.

With our Bay of Islands sailing cruises, you’ll enjoy;

  • Small Group Experience: Limited to just 19 guests for a personal, intimate journey.
  • Expert Local Crew: Knowledgeable and friendly, with in-depth regional insights.
  • Comfort & Stability: Our modern, spacious catamaran offers a smooth, relaxing ride.
  • Access to Hidden Bays & Beaches: Discover secluded spots away from the crowds.
  • Flexible Options: Short 2 hour afternoon cruise or full 6 hour day charter
  • Unmatched Natural Beauty: Experience the stunning scenery of the Bay of Islands in style and comfort.

This is sailing the way it should be—simple, scenic, and stress-free.

Bayscapes Sailing Charters catamaran Hibiscus Star anchored in a secluded Bay of Islands cove

A shared sailing charter allows individual travellers or small groups to join others on the same boat for a social and affordable sailing experience.

Our shared charters depart from Paihia Wharf in the Bay of Islands.

Our shared charters range from 2-hour afternoon cruises to full 6-hour day charters.

Lunch is included on our full-day shared charter, while light refreshments are provided on shorter cruises.

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

Our shared charters are well suited to;

  • 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
YOUR ISLAND ESCAPE AWAITS
Book Your Bay Of Islands Sailing Adventure

Discover one of the most unforgettable ways to explore the coastline—hidden bays, crystal-clear water, and a relaxed, personalised sailing experience.

👉 Limited spots available
👉 Secure your preferred date

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