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.
Private Charters from $2,800
Private Sail & Stop Highlights
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:
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:
Enjoy a relaxed day together with exclusive use of the boat.
A memorable team outing away from the office.
Birthdays, anniversaries and special occasions.
Flexible departures designed around cruise schedules.
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.
WHAT YOUR DAY COULD LOOK LIKE
Your Private Sailing Charter Itinerary
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
Your group, your boat, your day on the Bay.
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.
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.
Looking for Something Else?
If you’re unsure which charter suits your group best, compare all of our Bay of Islands sailing experiences.
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.
Sail & Hike
Looking for more adventure? Enjoy swimming, paddle boarding, snorkelling, and time to explore one of the beautiful Bay of Islands beaches.
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.