Private Sail & Hike Charter | Bay of Islands
Discover the Bay of Islands on a private sailing charter that combines spectacular coastal scenery with one of the region’s most scenic island walks through a predator-free wildlife sanctuary.
6 HOUR SAIL AND HIKE CHARTER
Sail, Explore & Hike the Bay of Islands
Combine sailing and hiking in one unforgettable Bay of Islands adventure. Sail aboard a private catamaran to Moturua Island, explore a predator-free wildlife sanctuary on foot, then relax on the scenic sail back through the islands.
Sail & Hike Charters from $3,100
Your Private Sail & Hike Experience
Our Sail and Hike Charter is designed for guests looking to combine a relaxing day on the water with one of the Bay of Islands’ most scenic island walks. The charter lasts approximately six hours, including around two hours ashore to complete the Moturua Island Loop Track. Combining sailing, native wildlife and spectacular coastal scenery, it’s the perfect experience for nature lovers, families and small groups seeking something beyond a traditional sightseeing cruise.
About the Moturua Island Walk
After sailing across the Bay of Islands, step ashore on Moturua Island, a predator-free wildlife sanctuary with beautiful coastal scenery, native bush and historic pā sites.
You’ll have approximately two hours to explore the 4.5 km Moturua Island Loop Track at your own pace.
The well-maintained track winds through regenerating native forest, passes historic pā sites and secluded beaches, and climbs to elevated viewpoints overlooking the surrounding islands.
Along the way, listen for native birds and keep an eye out for species that have been successfully reintroduced to the sanctuary.
Moturua Island Walk
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | 4.5 km loop |
| Time | Around 2 hours |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Terrain | Formed walking track with some hills |
| Elevation Gain | Approximately 240 m |
| Suitable For | Active adults, families with older children |
What to Bring:
Comfortable walking shoes
You’ll be walking approximately 4.5 km over varied terrain.
Water bottle
Bring enough water for your island walk.
Sun protection
Sunglasses, sunscreen and a sunhat are recommended.
Jacket or jumper
Conditions can change quickly on the water.
Snacks and drinks
BYO food and drinks are welcome, with catering also available as an optional extra.
Small bags
Secure onboard storage is available for your belongings.
Important: Island Biosecurity
Because Moturua Island is a protected sanctuary, footwear and walking equipment must be free from soil, seeds and other contaminants before going ashore.
Our crew will help ensure the required cleaning and biosecurity procedures are followed before you visit the island.
Meet the Boat: Hibiscus Star
Hibiscus Star is a spacious 40ft (12m) sailing catamaran designed for comfortable days exploring the Bay of Islands.
Enjoy panoramic views from the indoor saloon, relax in the covered cockpit or stretch out on the forward nets and beanbags while sailing between the islands.
The stable catamaran provides plenty of space to relax between activities, making it an ideal vessel for families, friends, corporate groups and private celebrations.
Boat Features:
A Private sail and hike charter is perfect for:
Private Sail and Hike Itinerary
Your Day at a Glance
Meet Your Crew
Meet your experienced local crew at your chosen departure point in Paihia, Russell or Waitangi before stepping aboard Hibiscus Star.
Set Sail Across the Bay
Cruise through the sheltered waters of the Bay of Islands. Enjoy panoramic coastal views and keep an eye out for marine life along the way.
Arrive at Moturua Island
Step ashore on one of the Bay of Islands’ predator-free sanctuary islands and prepare to explore.
Island Walk
Spend around two hours completing the 4.5 km Moturua Island Loop Track at your own pace.
Optional Catered Lunch
Add catering to your charter and enjoy lunch either ashore or back onboard, depending on your preference and the day’s conditions.
Relaxing Return Sail
Return to Hibiscus Star and enjoy a relaxing sail through the Bay of Islands, with time to unwind and take in the scenery.
Discover the Bay of Islands’ Unique Wildlife & Nature
Moturua Island is part of the Bay of Islands’ network of protected wildlife sanctuary islands.
Thanks to ongoing conservation work, native species have been reintroduced to these predator-free environments, helping restore the islands’ natural ecosystems.
As you explore the island, you may encounter native birds including North Island robin, tīeke (saddleback), whitehead, tūī, fantail and kererū.
Keep your eyes on the water during the sailing sections too. Dolphins, seabirds, stingrays and other marine wildlife may be spotted throughout the Bay.
Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but every trip offers the opportunity to experience the Bay’s unique marine and island environment.
Responsible Wildlife Viewing
The Bay of Islands is home to a diverse range of marine and birdlife, and we believe wildlife should always be enjoyed responsibly.
Bayscapes follows relevant Department of Conservation guidelines, giving wildlife space and avoiding unnecessary disturbance. Encounters happen on nature’s terms, allowing you to enjoy these incredible animals in their natural environment.
Why Choose A Sail & Hike Charter with Bayscapes?
The Bay of Islands is best experienced from both land and sea. This private charter gives you the chance to sail between the islands before stepping ashore to explore one of the region’s protected wildlife sanctuaries on foot.
Rather than spending the whole day on the boat or following a fixed walking tour, you get the best of both experiences—a scenic sailing adventure combined with an active island walk.
Sailing + Hiking
Combine two of the best ways to experience the Bay of Islands in one memorable day.
Flexible Departure Locations
Depart from Paihia, Russell or Waitangi, subject to availability.
Spacious Sailing Catamaran
Hibiscus Star offers plenty of room to relax, move around and enjoy the scenery.
Locally Owned & Operated
Experience the Bay with a local crew who know the islands and surrounding waters.
5-Star Rated Experiences
Join travellers from around the world who have explored the Bay with Bayscapes.
Trusted By Travellers From Around The World
Wondering what a day onboard Bayscapes is really like? Hear from guests who have explored the Bay of Islands with us.
FAQs – Private Sail and Hike Charter
The charter lasts approximately 6 hours, including around 2 hours ashore to complete the Moturua Island Loop Track.
The Moturua Island Loop Track is approximately 4.5 km and typically takes around 2 hours to complete.
The track is rated moderate and includes several hills, with approximately 240 metres of elevation gain. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
No previous hiking experience is required. However, you’ll need to be comfortable walking approximately 4.5 km over varied terrain.
Private charters offer flexible departure times and can depart from Paihia, Russell or Waitangi, subject to availability and conditions.
Lunch is not included in the base charter price, but optional catering can be added to your experience.
Yes. The experience can be suitable for families with older children who are comfortable completing a moderate 4.5 km island walk.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a water bottle, sun protection, a jacket or jumper, and any snacks or drinks you would like for the day.
Yes. Because Moturua is a protected wildlife sanctuary, footwear and walking equipment must be cleaned to prevent the spread of pests and diseases. Our crew will assist with the required biosecurity procedures before you go ashore.
Yes. BYO food and drinks are welcome, and optional catering can also be arranged.
Looking for Something Else?
If you’re unsure which charter suits your group best, compare all of our Bay of Islands sailing experiences.
Sailing Cruise
Want to focus on sailing and scenery? Enjoy a private 2–4 hour cruise without scheduled swimming, hiking or island stops.
Sail & Stop
Looking for more water-based adventure? Enjoy swimming, paddle boarding, snorkelling and time to explore a beautiful Bay of Islands beach.
Shared Charter
Want to meet other travellers? Our shared sailing charters offer a fun and social way to explore the Bay of Islands.