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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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.
ISLAND STOP
Step ashore to explore secluded beaches and walking tracks.
PADDLE BOARDING
Glide across calm bays and explore at your own pace.
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.
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:
Discover secluded islands, quiet coves, and beautiful coastal locations away from the crowds.
Feel the wind fill the sails and experience the simple pleasure of travelling by wind through the stunning Bay of Islands.
Relax aboard our stable 40ft catamaran with plenty of room to move, comfortable seating, and panoramic views.
Choose the experience that suits your group, from scenic sailing and swimming to island stops, snorkelling, paddle boarding, and coastal walks.
Enjoy a personalised experience with a friendly local crew who know the Bay of Islands and its hidden gems.
Bring your own refreshments onboard and enjoy a relaxed day on the water with your group.
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.
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.