Private Sailing CharterS | Bay of Islands

Enjoy an exclusive sailing experience through the Bay of Islands with your own private crewed charter. Explore secluded bays, swim in crystal-clear waters, discover beautiful islands, and create a day on the water designed around your group.

View Private Charters

Plan Your Perfect Private Charter

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing sail, an island adventure or a combination of sailing and hiking, our private charters can be tailored around your group, interests and the conditions on the day. All charters are aboard Hibiscus Star, our spacious 40ft sailing catamaran, with exclusive use of the boat for up to 19 guests.

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

MOST POPULAR

Sail & Island Stop

Experience the best of the Bay of Islands with scenic sailing followed by an island stop in a sheltered bay. Swim, snorkel, paddle board, explore the shoreline, or simply relax onboard while surrounded by stunning coastal scenery.

4 – 6 Hours

Water Activities

View Sail & Stop Charter

Guest walking on shore with sailing boat anchored in a remote Bay of Islands bay

NATURE & WILDLIFE

Sail & Hike

Sail to Moturua Island and explore one of the Bay of Islands’ most spectacular walking tracks. Follow the 4.5 km loop through regenerating native bush, spot native birdlife, discover historic sites, and enjoy panoramic coastal viewpoints.

6 Hours

Island Walk

View Sail & Hike Charter

Catamaran sailing through the Bay of Islands on a clear day

RELAXED SAILING

Sailing Only Cruise

Enjoy a relaxed sailing experience across the Bay of Islands. This option focuses on sailing, sightseeing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region from the water.

2 – 4 Hours

Scenic Sail

View Sail Only Cruise

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

Private Bay of Islands Sailing Charter

Experience the freedom of exploring the Bay of Islands with your own private boat and crew.

Depart from Paihia, Russell or Waitangi and sail through the sheltered waters of one of New Zealand’s most spectacular coastal regions.

Depending on the charter you choose, your day could include scenic sailing, secluded island stops, swimming, snorkelling, paddle boarding, island walks, wildlife spotting or simply relaxing onboard.

With exclusive use of our spacious 40ft sailing catamaran, you can enjoy the Bay without the crowds and with an itinerary designed around your group.

What You’ll Experience

✓ Sailing through the stunning islands of the Bay of Islands
✓ Swimming and snorkelling in sheltered island bay*
✓ Paddle boarding in crystal-clear waters*
✓ Exploring remote beaches and island walking tracks*
✓ Watching for dolphins, seabirds and marine life
✓ Relaxing onboard with your own private crew

*select charters only

Book Now

Your Day, Your way

No two private charters are exactly the same.

Choose the experience that suits your group, then let our local crew help you make the most of the day. Want to spend more time sailing? Relax in a secluded bay? Swim and paddle board? Explore an island? Complete a scenic hike?

We’ll work with your group and the conditions on the day to create a memorable experience on the Bay of Islands.

a couple take in views of a scenic bay while on a sailing charter in the Bay of Islands

Aerial view of the Bayscapes Sailing Charters catamaran Hibiscus Star anchored in a secluded Bay of Islands bay

Comfort and Space on Our Catamaran

Step aboard Hibiscus Star, our spacious 40ft (12m) sailing catamaran.

With wide open decks, comfortable seating, forward nets, a covered cockpit and an indoor saloon with 180° panoramic views, there’s plenty of space to relax between activities.

The stable catamaran provides a comfortable ride while giving you the freedom to move around and enjoy the scenery from different areas of the boat.

Boat Features

Spacious 40ft (12m) sailing catamaran

Indoor saloon with 180° panoramic views

Covered cockpit seating

Forward nets and beanbags

Bluetooth sound system

Onboard toilet

Hot outdoor shower

Safety equipment

Stable and comfortable ride

Discover The Boat

Perfect for Special Occasions

Our private charters are ideal for:

Families & Friends
Spend quality time together with exclusive use of the boat.

Special Celebrations
Birthdays, anniversaries, proposals and other memorable occasions.

Corporate Groups
A relaxed and memorable team experience away from the office.

Wedding Groups
Celebrate together on the water before or after your special day.

Cruise Ship Visitors
Private charters can offer flexible departure times around cruise schedules, subject to availability.

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

Explore, Swim & Relax

Discover More Than Just Sailing

Every charter is different, but every trip is designed to help you experience the very best of the Bay of Islands. From relaxing under sail to swimming, exploring islands and spotting wildlife, there’s something for everyone.

Nature walk on Bay of Islands wildlife sanctuary island, Moturua Island

ISLAND STOP

Step ashore to explore secluded beaches and walking tracks.

PADDLE BOARDING

Glide across calm bays and explore at your own pace.

a little blue penguins swims by a sailing charter in the bay of islands

WILDLIFE WATCHING

Look out for dolphins, seabirds and other marine life in the Bay of Islands.

SAILING

Enjoy peaceful sailing through one of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastlines.

SNORKELING & SWIMMING

Discover vibrant marine life and swim in the clear, sheltered waters of the Bay of Islands.

Catered lunch served onboard a Bay of Islands sailing charter

LUNCH ONBOARD

Enjoy a freshly prepared meal while anchored in a quiet bay on select charters.

Why Choose a Private Sailing Charter in the Bay of Islands?

A private sailing charter gives your group exclusive use of the vessel, allowing you to create the perfect day on the water. Choose your departure location, customise your itinerary, and explore the Bay of Islands at your own pace. Swim in sheltered bays, discover hidden beaches, enjoy island walks, or simply relax onboard while taking in the stunning coastal scenery.

With our Private Bay of Islands Sailing Charters, you’ll enjoy:

Exclusive Access to Hidden Bays & Beaches

Discover secluded islands, quiet coves, and beautiful coastal locations away from the crowds.

Authentic Sailing Experience

Feel the wind fill the sails and experience the simple pleasure of travelling by wind through the stunning Bay of Islands.

Spacious & Comfortable Catamaran

Relax aboard our stable 40ft catamaran with plenty of room to move, comfortable seating, and panoramic views.

Flexible Itineraries

Choose the experience that suits your group, from scenic sailing and swimming to island stops, snorkelling, paddle boarding, and coastal walks.

Experienced Local Crew

Enjoy a personalised experience with a friendly local crew who know the Bay of Islands and its hidden gems.

BYO Food & Drinks

Bring your own refreshments onboard and enjoy a relaxed day on the water with your group.

Depart From Paihia, Russell or Waitangi

Private charters can depart from Paihia, Russell or Waitangi Wharf, subject to availability and the requirements of your chosen charter.

5 Star Sailing Experiences

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

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 97 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   A&A Barton 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My wife and I had a fantastic day charter with Brad and Monique. It was supposed to be a shared charter but the other party cancelled at the last minute so we were the only guests on the boat. Brad and Monique were professional, knowledgeable and very friendly. They keep their boat in immaculate condition and obviously take pride in their charter business. As an experienced sailor myself, I highly recommend this charter for exploring the beautiful Bay of Islands.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Gerrie Colazo 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Bayscapes was an absolutely amazing experience! We used them for a Hens Do and everyone had the best day ever! The hosts, Monique and Brad, were awesome and so accommodating. Even though the weather was a bit windy, they found the best spot for us to spend the day. They have everything you need - bean bags, music, paddle boards, snorkeling gear. Thanks so much for the awesome day guys! Can't recommend you enough! 10/10
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Elizabeth Clayton 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our family had such a good time on our sailing trip. Brad and Monique were great skippers, the sailing and island activities were fun, and lunch was very tasty! 5/5 all around, I definitely recommend!!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Sam Wiseman 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This was truly a special day on the water. Brad and Monique were fabulous, helpful and knowledgeable. This is a perfect foil to all the "touristy" high speed high pressure trips. Snorkeling, paddle boarding and swimming all while moored in a beautiful bay during our lunch stop over was awesome. My wife and I highly recommend this charter.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Lauren Raffaele 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We loved our experience on the bayscapes tour. I went with my parents (early 70's) and we all loved it. The catamaran is super stable and relaxing to sail on. There were plenty of seats including a cushioned lounge in the interior, seating on the aft, and bean bags and nets on the bow area. Lunch was great, they catered to my GF diet, and it was available whenever you wanted it during the 2 hour island stop. Monique and Brad were such attentive hosts who do whatever they can to help you and make you comfortable. I would happily recommend this trip to anyone and loved the small group vibe much more than a big crowded boat. Highly recommend popping into the Tipsy Oyster afterwards for oysters and a drink 🍺
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Crazy Mama 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had the best day exploring the Bay of Islands with Bayscape Charters. The catamaran was spotless and very comfortable. The lunch was filling and delicious, better than we had expected. The options for a walk, snorkeling, paddle boards and swimming made for an adventurous day. Brad and Monique are very friendly, professional, knowledgable yet laid back and made the whole experience exceptional. The blankets, when it got windy, were a nice touch. I highly recommend them.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Carrie Costa 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic trip with Brad and Monique out in the Bay of islands. We had a lot of wind and they were very apologetic about some of the conditions we had to navigate, but as a first-time visitor we couldn't have asked for a better experience. We had a great stop in a sheltered area with a walk and swim to explore Motorua, along with a great lunch. This is the second Catamaran tour I've done and it's something that I will look for in other places when I travel because it's such an awesome way to explore. Highly recommend Bayscapes for your visit to the Bay of Islands. I'm really glad we choose the over the large commercial tourist option.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Mike Bouvier 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If you enjoy sailing and getting a great perspective of the Bay of Islands from out on the water you will love this little charter cruise.  Brand and Monique do a great job of sharing a bit of history of New Zealand while exploring several of the bays and islands.  A stop for a swim/snorkel and a short hike followed by a hearty lunch box before, wind permitting, a brisk sail back to the Paihia marina.  The catamaran is very clean, well kept and spacious enough for all the guests.  It's great to see a young local couple own and operate their own charter.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Marek 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Wonderful day with an amazing crew. I’ll be back next time I’m in Russell.

Quick FAQs – Private Sailing Charters

Private charters can accommodate small groups, families, and special occasions for up to 19 guests.

Private charters can depart from Paihia or Russell Wharf. We can also pick up from Waitangi Wharf on select days.

Choose Sail & Stop if you want swimming, snorkelling, paddle boarding and an island stop.

Choose Sail & Hike if you’d like to combine sailing with a scenic island walk and wildlife experience.

Choose Sailing Only if you primarily want a relaxing sailing and sightseeing experience without scheduled activities.

Yes. Private charters offer flexibility around your group’s interests, the weather and sea conditions. The activities and itinerary available depend on the charter you choose.

Catering is not included in the base charter prices, but optional catering can be arranged for private charters.

Yes. BYO food and drinks are welcome onboard.

Charter durations vary depending on the experience:

Sail & Hike: approximately 6 hours

Sailing Only: approximately 2–4 hours

Sail & Stop: approximately 4–6 hours

Your skipper monitors conditions throughout the day and may adjust the itinerary when necessary. Safety is always the priority, and the sheltered areas onboard provide protection if conditions change.

View More Bay of Islands Sailing FAQs

YOUR SAILING ESCAPE STARTS HERE

Which Private Charter Is Right for You?

Sail & Stop for swimming, island exploration and water activities. Sail & Hike for a scenic island walk, native wildlife and adventure. Sailing Cruise for a relaxed private sail and spectacular Bay of Islands scenery.

• Your Boat • Your Group • Your Day •

Book A Sailing Charter