About Bayscapes | Bay of Islands Sailing Charters
Meet the local team behind Bayscapes and discover why we love sharing the Bay of Islands by sail.
About Us
At Bayscapes Charters, we believe the best way to experience the Bay of Islands is from the water — at a relaxed pace, with plenty of time to take in the scenery, discover beautiful anchorages and enjoy the simple pleasure of sailing.
Founded by Brad and Monique, Bayscapes is a locally owned and operated sailing charter based in Paihia. We offer shared and private sailing experiences aboard our spacious sailing catamaran, Hibiscus Star, combining genuine sailing, local knowledge and a personal approach to exploring one of New Zealand’s most spectacular coastal destinations.
Comfort, space and spectacular views
Sail The Bay Of Islands On Hibiscus Star
Our 40-foot sailing catamaran, Hibiscus Star, is at the heart of the Bayscapes experience.
With two hulls, generous deck space and a stable design, Hibiscus Star provides a comfortable platform for exploring the Bay of Islands. There’s space to stretch out, find a quiet spot in the sun or shade, and enjoy uninterrupted views as the coastline and islands unfold around you.
The catamaran’s stable design also makes it ideal for relaxed cruising, whether you’re joining one of our shared sailing charters or enjoying a private charter with family and friends.
We want you to feel comfortable from the moment you step aboard — with plenty of space to relax, take photographs, watch for marine life or simply enjoy being out on the water.
A local business built around a love of sailing
Meet The Team Behind Bayscapes Charters
What began with Brad’s dream of running a sailing charter has grown into a business we’re proud to share together. Based in Paihia, we spend our days exploring the islands, bays and coastline of the Bay of Islands — and we love introducing guests to the places that make this region so special.
Our goal has always been simple: to create relaxed, personal sailing experiences that allow people to enjoy the Bay of Islands without feeling rushed or crowded.
We believe a great day on the water is about more than simply getting from one destination to another. It’s about finding a beautiful anchorage, watching wildlife in its natural environment, enjoying the scenery, learning something about the area and having the freedom to slow down and enjoy the moment.
Our local knowledge also means we can adapt each sailing experience to the conditions on the day, choosing sheltered anchorages and destinations based on the weather, tides and what our guests would most like to experience.
144 islands. Countless places to explore.
Why We Love The Bay Of Islands
The Bay of Islands is home to 144 islands, creating an incredible playground for sailing, wildlife, swimming, walking and exploring.
But for us, it’s not just the number of islands that makes the region special. It’s the variety.
One day might take you past secluded beaches and forested islands. Another might bring encounters with seabirds and marine life, a walk through native bush or time anchored in a quiet bay with nothing but the sound of the water around you.
Because we live and operate here, we know how quickly conditions can change. Wind, tides, weather and sea conditions all play a part in choosing where to sail and anchor.
Rather than following the same route every day, we use our local knowledge to make the most of the conditions and create an enjoyable experience for our guests.
That might mean seeking out a sheltered bay on a breezy day, choosing a particularly beautiful anchorage or adjusting the itinerary around what your group would most enjoy.
More Than a Boat Tour
A Relaxed And Personal Way To Experience The Bay
We don’t want your time with Bayscapes to feel like you’re simply ticking destinations off a list.
Our charters are designed around the experience itself — the sailing, the scenery, the people you’re with and the freedom to enjoy the Bay at a comfortable pace.
Our shared charters offer a social way to experience the Bay of Islands with a small group, while our private charters give you greater flexibility to shape the day around your group.
Whether you’re visiting the Bay of Islands for the first time, celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a memorable day on the water, we aim to make your time aboard Hibiscus Star relaxed, comfortable and genuinely enjoyable.
Our Commitment to Your Experience
Safe, Comfortable And Personal Sailing
Your safety and enjoyment are at the heart of every Bayscapes charter.
We take the conditions seriously and carefully consider weather, wind, tides and sea conditions when planning each day. Our experienced crew are there throughout your journey to ensure you feel comfortable, informed and well looked after.
At the same time, we don’t believe safety and professionalism should come at the expense of a relaxed atmosphere.
We want you to feel like you’re spending a day on the water with people who genuinely love sailing and are excited to share the Bay of Islands with you.
Explore the Bay of Islands With Bayscapes
Your safety and enjoyment are at the heart of every Bayscapes charter.
Whether you choose a shared sailing charter or a private experience, we’d love to show you the Bay of Islands from our perspective.
Come aboard Hibiscus Star, leave the crowds behind and experience the Bay of Islands by sail.
Explore Our Bay Of Islands Sailing Charters
Hibiscus Star is at the heart of our sailing experiences. Choose a private charter for your own group or join one of our shared sailing experiences to explore the Bay of Islands from the water.
Private Charters
Have Hibiscus Star exclusively for your group.
Create your own sailing experience with a private crewed charter. Choose a relaxed sail, combine sailing with an island stop, or work with our crew to create an itinerary around your group.
Shared Charters
Meet other travellers and experience the Bay of Islands together.
Join a small-group sailing experience aboard Hibiscus Star. Sail between the islands, enjoy time in the water and experience an island walk while taking in the scenery along the way.
FAQs – About Bayscapes Charters
Bayscapes Charters is locally owned and operated by Brad and Monique, who are based in Paihia in the Bay of Islands.
We are based in Paihia, with charter options departing from Paihia, Russell and Waitangi Wharf, depending on the charter you choose.
Bayscapes Charters was founded in 2021, with the goal of sharing our passion for sailing and the Bay of Islands through relaxed, personal sailing experiences.
Our charters operate aboard Hibiscus Star, a spacious 40-foot sailing catamaran designed for comfortable and stable cruising around the Bay of Islands.
Yes. Our private Bay of Islands sailing charters are ideal for families, groups, celebrations and anyone wanting a more personalised experience. Private charters can be tailored around your group’s interests, timing and the conditions on the day.
Yes. Our shared sailing experiences provide an opportunity to explore the Bay of Islands with a small group while enjoying the comfort and space of Hibiscus Star.
Yes. Catering can be arranged for private charters, with options available for lunches, special occasions and dietary requirements.
We are a locally owned sailing business with a genuine passion for the Bay of Islands. Rather than simply taking guests from one destination to another, we focus on creating relaxed sailing experiences that combine local knowledge, beautiful anchorages, comfortable cruising and time to enjoy the scenery.
Quality, Sustainability & Local Expertise
