Private Sailing Charter with Island Stop | Bay OF Islands

Enjoy a private sailing charter with a secluded island stop. Explore hidden bays, visit a predator-free island sanctuary, swim in crystal-clear waters, and relax with our experienced local crew.

Bayscapes Signature Sailing Experience with island stop

Escape the crowds and experience the Bay of Islands your way. Enjoy an exclusive private sailing charter with a secluded island stop where you can swim, snorkel, paddle board, explore a predator-free wildlife sanctuary island, or simply relax.

Secluded Island Stop

Water Activities

4 – 6 Hours

Up to 19 guests

Private Charters from $2,800

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Private Sail & Stop Highlights

Private Charter | Up to 19 Guests

4 to 6 Hours

Scenic Sailing in the Bay of Islands

Island Stop – Stop at a predator-free wildlife sanctuary

Water Activities – Swimming • Snorkeling • Paddle Boarding

Island Walk – Walk through native bush

Flexible Departure Locations – Paihia • Russell • Waitangi

BYO Drinks

Catered Food Options Available

Your Island Stop

After sailing through the Bay of Islands, we’ll anchor in a sheltered bay where you can enjoy time in and around the water. Take a tender ride to the island, discover native bush and quiet beaches, or stay close to the boat and make the most of our water activities like swimming, snorkeling or paddle boarding.

There is no need to rush. Your skipper will help you make the most of the conditions and available time on the day.

Activities At Your Island Stop

Swimming
Cool off in the clear, sheltered waters of the Bay.

Snorkelling
Explore the shallow coastal waters and look for marine life below the surface.

Paddle Boarding
Explore the shoreline at your own pace on one of our stand-up paddle boards.

Island Exploration
Take a self-guided walk through native bush or explore a secluded beach.

Relaxing
Prefer to stay onboard? Stretch out on the nets, relax in the cockpit and enjoy the scenery.

Meet the Boat: Hibiscus Star

Hibiscus Star is a spacious 40 ft (12 m) sailing catamaran designed for comfort, stability, and unforgettable days on the water. With wide open decks and plenty of room to relax, it’s the perfect vessel for exploring the spectacular Bay of Islands with family, friends, or colleagues.

Take in the scenery from the indoor saloon with 180° panoramic views, relax in the covered cockpit, or stretch out on the forward nets and beanbags as the Bay of Islands passes beneath you. Our spacious catamaran offers a stable and comfortable ride, making it an excellent choice for guests new to sailing.

From celebrations and family gatherings to corporate outings and scenic cruises, Hibiscus Star provides a comfortable and memorable setting for your private Bay of Islands sailing experience.

Boat Features:

Spacious 40 ft (12 m) Catamaran

Indoor Saloon with 180° Views

Covered Cockpit Seating

Forward Nets & Beanbags

Bluetooth Sound System

Onboard Toilet

Safety Equipment

Stable & Comfortable Ride

What to Bring:

Swimwear & towel
You’ll want to make the most of the water.

Comfortable walking shoes
Useful if you choose to explore ashore.

Jacket or jumper
Conditions can change quickly on the water.

Sunglasses & sunhat
Protect yourself from the sun while sailing.

Drinks & snacks
BYO food and drinks are welcome, with catering also available.

Small bags
Secure onboard storage is available for your belongings.

Don’t worry about space—we have secure onboard storage for your bags and belongings.

A Private sailing charter is perfect for:

Families & Friends

Enjoy a relaxed day together with exclusive use of the boat.

Corporate Groups

A memorable team outing away from the office.

Special Celebrations

Birthdays, anniversaries and special occasions.

Cruise Ship Visitors

Flexible departures designed around cruise schedules.

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

Sail, Swim & Explore the Bay of Islands

Want more than just a scenic cruise?

Our Private Sail & Stop Charter combines the freedom of sailing with time to swim, snorkel, paddle board and explore a beautiful island.

Set sail from Paihia, Russell or Waitangi aboard Hibiscus Star, our spacious 40ft sailing catamaran. Cruise through the sheltered waters of the Bay of Islands before stopping at a secluded island or sheltered bay.

Once you arrive, the choice is yours. Jump into the clear water for a swim, explore with a snorkel or paddle board, take a walk through native bush, or simply relax onboard and enjoy the scenery.

With a private boat, flexible itinerary and experienced local crew, you can enjoy the Bay of Islands at your own pace.

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WHAT YOUR DAY COULD LOOK LIKE

Your Private Sailing Charter Itinerary

Bayscapes Charters crew Brad and Monique sailing in the Bay of Islands

Meet Your Crew

Your experience begins at your chosen departure location — Paihia, Russell, or Waitangi Wharf. Meet your friendly local crew, settle onboard Hibiscus Star, and enjoy a short safety briefing before we set sail into the Bay of Islands.

Catamaran sailing charter in the Bay of Islands with guests relaxing on deck

Set Sail Across the Bay

Take in panoramic views from the water, keep an eye out for marine life, or simply sit back and enjoy the peaceful experience of sailing. Your crew will share local knowledge and point out interesting sights along the way.

Guests hiking on Waewaetorea Island with a scenic view of Honeymoon Bay in the Bay of Islands during a sailing charter

Explore a Wildlife Sanctuary Island

Arrive at a secluded island surrounded by native bush, clear waters, and the natural beauty of the Bay of Islands. Step ashore for a self-guided walk through regenerating native forest, discover quiet beaches, or take your time exploring at your own pace.

Guests snorkelling in clear blue water during a sailing charter

Swim, Snorkel & Paddle Board

Anchor in a sheltered bay and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Bay of Islands. Swim from the boat, explore beneath the surface with a snorkel, or paddle across the bay on a stand-up paddle board.

Equipment is provided, so you can simply jump in and enjoy.

Catered lunch served onboard a Bay of Islands sailing charter

Optional Catered Lunch

For those wanting to make the day extra special, catering can be arranged as an optional extra.

Enjoy a relaxed onboard lunch with fresh local options and dietary requirements catered for on request.

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

Relax Onboard & Enjoy The Journey Home

After your island adventure, settle back onboard and enjoy the return sail.

Stretch out on the bow nets, relax in the cockpit, or enjoy a drink while watching the islands pass by.

Why Choose a Private Sail & Stop Charter?

The best days on the Bay of Islands don’t always need a set itinerary.

This charter gives your group the freedom to combine sailing, swimming, exploring and relaxing in one private experience.

Unlike a dedicated sailing cruise, you’ll have time to get off the boat and enjoy the islands. And unlike the Sail & Hike experience, the focus isn’t on completing a longer walk—the island stop is about choosing how you want to spend your time.

You can:

Swim in clear, sheltered waters

Snorkel and explore beneath the surface

Paddle board around the bay

Take a relaxed walk through native bush

Explore a secluded beach

Jump from the boat

Relax onboard with a drink

Simply enjoy the scenery and do as much—or as little—as you like

Your group, your boat, your day on the Bay.

a couple stands at a lookout, viewing the twin lagoons on Roberton island in the Bay of Islands

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.

      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 Sail & Stop Charter

Still have questions? Here are the answers to the questions we’re asked most often before guests book their private sailing charter.

Yes. Every private charter is tailored to your group, the weather, and sea conditions on the day. Whether you’d like more time sailing, swimming, paddle boarding, or relaxing in a secluded bay, we’ll do our best to create the perfect experience.

Catering is available as an optional extra for private charters. Choose from a selection of freshly prepared menu options, with dietary requirements catered for on request.

Yes. You’re welcome to bring your own drinks onboard. We can provide glassware and a cooler to keep your drinks chilled throughout the day.

Private charters can depart from Paihia, Russell, or Waitangi Wharf. Simply let us know your preferred departure location when booking, and we’ll confirm the arrangements.

You can enjoy scenic sailing, swimming, paddleboarding, snorkelling, relaxing onboard, and an optional self-guided island walk.

Our spacious catamaran features a comfortable indoor saloon, providing plenty of shelter if the weather changes. Safety is always our priority, and if conditions are unsuitable for sailing, we’ll work with you to reschedule or discuss the available options.

Absolutely! Private charters are a fantastic option for families. Children are welcome onboard and love the opportunity to swim, explore the islands, and experience sailing in the Bay of Islands.

Yes. We have Bluetooth speakers in both the indoor saloon and outdoor cockpit, so you’re welcome to connect your device and enjoy your own music throughout the charter.

View All FAQs

Looking for Something Else?

If you’re unsure which charter suits your group best, compare all of our Bay of Islands sailing experiences.

Catamaran sailing through the Bay of Islands on a clear day

Sailing Cruise

Looking for a shorter cruise? Perfect for guests who want to enjoy scenic sailing without scheduled stops. Sit back, unwind, and take in the views.

View Sailing Cruises

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

Sail & Hike

Looking for more adventure? Enjoy swimming, paddle boarding, snorkelling, and time to explore one of the beautiful Bay of Islands beaches.

View Sail & Hike

Shared sailing charter in the Bay of Islands with island stop and water activities

Shared Charter

Want to share your charter with other travellers? Our shared charters offer a fun and social way to explore the Bay of Islands.

View Shared Charters

YOUR SAILING ESCAPE AWAITS

Ready to Create Your Perfect Day on the Water?

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, travelling with family, or simply looking for a private escape, we’ll help you create an unforgettable Bay of Islands sailing experience.

✓ Up to 19 guests
✓ Flexible departure locations
✓ Secluded island stop included