A catamaran is a great way to explore the Bay of Islands, particularly if comfort, space and stability are important to you.
With two hulls and a wide deck, a sailing catamaran offers plenty of room to move around, relax and take in the scenery. It’s a different experience from sailing on a smaller monohull, giving guests more space to spread out while still enjoying the feeling of travelling under sail.
Whether you’re planning a couple’s escape, a family day out or a private charter with friends, here’s what to consider when choosing a catamaran for your Bay of Islands adventure.
Why Choose a Catamaran?
One of the first things guests notice on a catamaran is the stability.
The two hulls provide a wide platform that generally reduces the side-to-side motion associated with monohull boats. This can make moving around the deck more comfortable, particularly when you’re enjoying a meal, taking photos or getting ready for a swim.
The additional space is another major advantage.
A catamaran typically has wide outdoor areas where guests can sit in the sun, relax in the shade or move around while the boat is sailing. This makes it easier for everyone in a group to find a comfortable spot.
For anyone who hasn’t spent much time on boats before, the combination of stability and space can also make sailing feel more approachable.
More Space to Relax
One of the biggest advantages of a catamaran is the amount of usable space onboard.
Rather than everyone being concentrated in one area, guests can spread out across the deck. You might choose a sunny spot at the front of the boat, relax in the shade or find a comfortable place to enjoy the views while sailing between the islands.
This works particularly well for groups with different interests.
Some people might want to sit back and enjoy the scenery, while others are keen to take photos, chat with the crew or get ready for a swim.
For longer trips, having plenty of space becomes even more important. You don’t want to feel confined when you’re spending several hours on the water.
Catamarans and Families
A stable, spacious boat can be a particularly good option for families.
Children have more room to move around, while parents can find comfortable areas to sit and keep an eye on what’s happening around the boat.
The wide deck also makes it easier to transition between sailing, swimming and other activities.
Of course, children should always follow the skipper’s safety instructions and remain in designated areas while the boat is underway.
If you’re travelling with young children, it’s worth asking about the boat’s layout, shade and boarding arrangements before booking.
Sailing, Swimming and Exploring
The Bay of Islands is ideally suited to a day that combines sailing with time in the water.
With 144 islands and countless bays and beaches, there are plenty of opportunities to find a sheltered location for swimming, snorkelling or paddleboarding when conditions allow.
A longer catamaran charter can give you time to enjoy the sailing as well as spend time at anchor.
You might start the day sailing between the islands before stopping in a sheltered bay for a swim. After lunch, you can continue exploring or head ashore for a walk before sailing back towards Paihia.
The exact route will depend on the weather, wind and sea conditions, but the flexibility of the region allows the skipper to adapt the day.
Choosing the Right Charter Length
Think about what you want to get out of your day before deciding how long to book.
2-hour charter:
A good introduction to sailing if you’re short on time or want a relaxed cruise around the bay.
4-hour charter:
Gives you more time to sail and potentially include a swimming or other activity stop.
6-hour or full-day charter:
Ideal if you want to combine sailing with an island stop, swimming, exploring and plenty of time to relax.
If experiencing the Bay of Islands by sail is one of the main highlights of your trip, a longer charter gives you more opportunity to slow down and enjoy the journey rather than rushing from one location to another.
What to Look for When Choosing a Catamaran
Not all catamarans offer the same experience, so it’s worth looking beyond the word “catamaran” when comparing charters.
Consider:
- How many guests will be onboard?
- How much outdoor deck space is available?
- Is there comfortable seating?
- Is there shade?
- Is there an indoor area?
- Are toilets available?
- What swimming and snorkelling equipment is included?
- Is lunch or food included?
- Where does the boat depart from?
- How flexible is the itinerary?
Group size is particularly important.
A large catamaran carrying a high number of passengers can feel very different from a smaller vessel with fewer guests. If you prefer a more personal experience, check the maximum passenger capacity before booking.
Local Knowledge Makes a Difference
The boat is only part of the experience. The crew can have just as much influence on your day.
Local skippers know how conditions can change around the islands and can adjust the route accordingly. They can look for sheltered water, choose suitable swimming locations and make the most of the wind when conditions are right for sailing.
They can also share information about the islands, local history and wildlife along the way.
Rather than following a rigid itinerary regardless of conditions, an experienced local crew can help create a day that works with the weather.
Why Sail on a Catamaran?
A catamaran gives you many of the things people love about sailing — the quiet of moving under sail, the views, the fresh air and the feeling of being connected to the water — while providing a spacious platform for relaxing.
The journey becomes part of the experience.
Instead of simply travelling to an island or swimming location, you can enjoy the time between destinations, watching the coastline change as you sail through the Bay of Islands.
For guests who want to spend several hours on the water without feeling cramped, a catamaran can be an excellent choice.
Why Sail with Bayscapes Charters?
At Bayscapes Charters, we explore the Bay of Islands aboard Hibiscus Star, our spacious 40ft sailing catamaran.
The boat has generous outdoor deck space, comfortable seating and 180-degree views from the saloon, giving guests plenty of ways to enjoy the scenery while sailing.
Our shared charters accommodate up to 19 guests, while our private charters give your group exclusive use of the boat.
Depending on the charter you choose, your day can include sailing, swimming, snorkelling, paddleboarding, an island stop or time to explore ashore.
We depart from Paihia Wharf, making it easy to start your day on the water from the heart of the Bay of Islands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a catamaran good for families?
Yes. The wide deck and stable platform can make a catamaran a comfortable option for families and mixed-age groups. Children should always follow the skipper’s safety instructions while onboard.
Are catamarans more stable than monohulls?
Catamarans have two hulls spaced apart, creating a wider platform and generally reducing the side-to-side rolling motion experienced on many monohull boats. Conditions will still affect how the boat moves, but many guests appreciate the additional stability.
How long should I book a catamaran charter for?
It depends on what you want to do. A shorter charter works well for a scenic sailing experience, while a 4–6 hour charter gives you more time to combine sailing with swimming, snorkelling or an island stop.
Can we include swimming or snorkelling?
Many charters can include swimming and snorkelling stops when weather and sea conditions allow. Check the specific charter to see what equipment and activities are included.
Do I need sailing experience?
No. You don’t need any previous sailing experience. The skipper and crew operate the boat, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the experience.
Is a private catamaran charter worth it?
A private charter can be a great option for families, groups of friends and special occasions. Your group has exclusive use of the boat and can generally have more flexibility around the pace and activities, subject to conditions.
