Bay of Islands Private Sailing Charter with Island Stop
Get the full immersion of the Bay of Islands with our signature cruise featuring an island stop over for all of our water activities.
Bayscapes Signature Sailing Experience
Relax with your friends and family on our signature private charter. Our crew will take you on an unforgettable journey through the stunning Bay of Islands.
Departing from either Paihia or Russell Wharf, we’ll glide out into the bay on our spacious catamaran, which offers ample room to move around and take in the sights as we sail along the coastline. Take a seat on a beanbag up on the front deck, or lounge out in our interior saloon. Keep an eye out for diverse marine life as we navigate to a secluded island bay.
Once anchored, you can savour a refreshing swim or immerse yourself in various water activities, from stand up paddle-boarding to snorkeling. You can also embark on a self-guided island hike and spot native birds or simply relax and unwind. We offer a catered menu so you can enjoy lunch onboard before sailing back.
For a more personalised experience, our Private Charters allow you to build your own itinerary, choosing your departure times and having more say in where we stop and what activities you’d like to enjoy.
- Sailing Charter – up to 6 hour charter on spacious catamaran
- Departure Point – Pick up from Paihia or Russell Wharf and Waitangi on select days
- Island Stop – Anchor on a secluded island for;
- Water Activities – Jumping platform, paddleboards and snorkelling gear provided
- Island Hike – Embark on a self-guided walk on a conservation island
- Drinks – BYO (Bring Your Own) Alcohol. Glasses and cooler provided on request
- Lunch – Catering options available
- Up to 19 Guests
- Facilities – Indoor and outdoor seating, flushing toilet, hot outdoor shower, multi-zone bluetooth speakers
- Locally Owned and Operated
- Jacket/Jumper; the breeze gets stronger when you are sailing so bring a jumper even if the weather looks good. In any case we do have a indoor saloon for your comfort.
- Sunglasses and Sunhat
- Any drinks or snacks you wish. Fridge available onboard (Lunch Included)
- Swimwear and a towel if you want to go swimming. You are welcome to bring your own snorkel gear or you can use our masks and fins provided.
- Walking shoes; Shoes are to be taken off upon boarding but do bring sneakers/shoes if you are planning on doing our island walk.
We have storage room onboard for your bags. When onboard you will be directed to an area to stow your gear.
Our destination is a peaceful island anchorage where we spend approximately two hours enjoying the natural beauty of the Bay of Islands.
During this stop, guests can:
- Swim in clear, sheltered waters
- Try stand-up paddleboarding
- Snorkel among coastal marine life
- Jump off the boat
- Take a tender ride ashore
- Enjoy a self-guided island walk
- Relax onboard and soak in the scenery
This island stop is often the highlight of the day, offering time to connect with nature and experience the Bay of Islands at your own pace.
Why Choose a Sail and Stop Charter?
Our Sail and Stop Charter is the perfect balance of sailing and exploration. Guests enjoy scenic cruising through the Bay of Islands before anchoring in a sheltered bay for swimming, paddleboarding, and island time. This option offers the full Bay of Islands experience, combining relaxation, adventure, and time to explore remote locations.
What Makes This Our Most Popular Private Charter?
The Sail and Stop Charter combines the best parts of a sailing adventure with time to explore a secluded island bay. Guests enjoy relaxed sailing, exciting water activities, and peaceful time surrounded by nature, making this our most popular private charter option.
DISCOVER MORE
Explore the Bay of Islands
Your day is about more than sailing — it’s about stepping ashore, exploring hidden corners of the Bay of Islands, and enjoying time on the water at your own pace.
2 HR ISLAND STOP
Step ashore to explore secluded beaches and walking tracks.
RELAXING SAIL
Take in the scenery as we sail past islands, beaches and historic landmarks while our experienced crew share local knowledge.
WILDLIFE WATCHING
Look out for dolphins, little blue penguin, seabirds and other marine life in the Bay of Islands.
DISCOVER WILDLIFE ISLANDS
Step ashore on a pest-free sanctuary island and explore regenerating native forest, scenic walking tracks and native birdlife.
SWIM, SNORKEL & PADDLE BOARD
Cool off in the clear waters of the Bay of Islands. Swim, snorkel or paddle board in a sheltered bay.
LUNCH WITH A VIEW
Enjoy a relaxed onboard lunch while anchored in a beautiful bay surrounded by the scenery of the Bay of Islands. Dietary options are available on request.
FAQs – Private Charter – Sail and Stop
What time does a Private Sail and Stop Charter depart?
Private charters are flexible and can depart at a time that suits your group from Paihia, Russell, or Waitangi Wharf.
How long is a Private Sail and Stop Charter?
This private charter runs for up to 6 hours and includes approximately two hours anchored at a secluded island bay.
Is lunch included?
Catering options are available for private charters, allowing you to choose a menu that suits your group.
What activities are included?
Guests can enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, snorkelling, relaxing onboard, and optional island walks.
Can the itinerary be customised?
Yes, private charters allow flexibility depending on weather conditions and guest preferences.
Will we see dolphins or marine wildlife?
Wildlife sightings are common in the Bay of Islands, including dolphins, stingrays, seabirds, and occasionally little blue penguins, although sightings cannot be guaranteed.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunhat, sunglasses, walking shoes, and a jacket.
Who ia a private sail and stop charter perfect for?
Our charters are well suited to;
- Birthday celebrations
- Family gatherings
- Corporate team outings
- Wedding groups
- Anniversary celebrations
- Cruise ship visitors
- Private group adventures
LOOKING FOR SOMETHING ELSE?
Private – Sail Only
Experience the beauty of the Bay of Islands. Perfect for guests who want to enjoy scenic sailing without scheduled stops. Sit back, unwind, and take in the views
Private- Sail and Hike
Looking for more adventure? Sail to a wildlife sanctuary island and fully get in touch with nature with a 2 hour island loop walk.
Shared Charters
Our shared day charter is a fun and social way to explore the Bay of Islands. Sail between islands, swim in sheltered bays, and enjoy a guided island walk
ISLAND CONSERVATION
Marine and Wildlife in the Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s most spectacular marine environments, home to a diverse range of wildlife, native birds, and protected island ecosystems. With over 140 islands scattered across sheltered waters, this region provides an ideal habitat for marine life and coastal bird species that thrive in this unique natural environment.
During your sailing charter with Bayscapes, there are many opportunities to observe marine wildlife in its natural habitat. Regularly seen in the Bay of Islands are dolphins, although sightings are not guaranteed, they are often spotted travelling through the sheltered channels between islands. Watching these playful marine mammals in the wild is a highlight for many guests. You may also spot stingrays gliding through shallow bays, schools of fish in crystal-clear waters, and a variety of seabirds soaring overhead.
Conservation and Protection
The Bay of Islands are part of ongoing conservation efforts designed to protect native wildlife and restore natural habitats. Several islands in the Bay of Islands are predator-free sanctuaries, allowing native bird populations to recover and thrive. These conservation programmes play an important role in preserving New Zealand’s unique biodiversity for future generations.
The waters of the Bay of Islands form part of a marine mammal sanctuary, helping to protect dolphins and other species that call this region home. Our crew always follow responsible wildlife viewing practices, ensuring that animals are respected and protected while guests enjoy unforgettable encounters from a safe distance. One of the region’s most unique wildlife residents is the Little Blue Penguin, the smallest penguin species in the world. These fascinating birds are known to inhabit several islands throughout the Bay of Islands.
Exploring the Bay of Islands by sail offers one of the best ways to experience this incredible marine and island environment. The quiet movement of a sailing vessel allows guests to observe wildlife with minimal disturbance while supporting sustainable, low-impact tourism in this world-renowned coastal destination.