Private Sailing CRUISE | Scenic Sail | Bay of Islands

Escape the crowds and enjoy a private sailing charter through the stunning Bay of Islands. Perfect for groups seeking a relaxing scenic cruise with spectacular views.

Leave the wharf behind and let the sails take you through the sheltered waters of the Bay of Islands. With no scheduled swimming, hiking or island stops, this charter is all about relaxing, sailing and enjoying the scenery at your own pace.

Cruise past secluded beaches, rugged coastlines and beautiful islands while enjoying panoramic views from the spacious deck, covered cockpit or forward nets.

2 – 4 Hour Private Charter
Up to 19 Guests
40ft Sailing Catamaran

Sailing Charters from $1850

Catamaran sailing charter in the Bay of Islands with guests relaxing and enjoying scenic views on deck

Sailing Charter highlights

Discover what makes our sailing catamaran the perfect option for your day on the water.

2 – 4 Hours
Up to 19 Guests
Spacious 40ft Sailing Catamaran
BYO Drinks
Catering Available
Depart from Paihia, Russell or Waitangi
Experienced Local Crew

Leave the wharf behind as the sails areAs the sails are raised, Hibiscus Star quietly glides away from the wharf and into the sheltered waters of the Bay of Islands. Cruise past secluded beaches, rugged coastlines, and iconic island scenery while enjoying panoramic views from the spacious deck or relaxing on the forward trampolines.

Keep an eye out for seabirds, dolphins, little blue penguins, stingrays and other marine wildlife that may be spotted along the way. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, but every trip is shaped by the day’s wind, weather and sea conditions.

Bring your camera and enjoy constantly changing views of turquoise water, secluded bays, islands and rugged coastline. Or simply find a comfortable spot onboard, relax with a drink and enjoy the feeling of being out on the water.

Whether you’re chatting with friends, enjoying catered platters, or simply soaking up the scenery, this is one of the most relaxing ways to experience the Bay of Islands.

Hibiscus Star is a spacious 40ft (12m) sailing catamaran designed for comfort, stability and relaxed days on the water.

Enjoy 180° panoramic views from the indoor saloon, shelter in the covered cockpit, or stretch out on the forward nets and beanbags while taking in the scenery.

With plenty of space to move around and a stable, comfortable ride, Hibiscus Star is well suited to families, groups, celebrations and corporate outing

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

✔ Couples
✔ Families
✔ Corporate Functions
✔ Birthday Celebrations
✔ Anniversary Celebrations
✔ Wedding Groups
✔ Team Building Events
✔ Hens & Bucks Parties
✔ Cruise Ship Visitors
✔ Visitors Short on Time
✔ Photography Cruises
✔ Relaxing Afternoon Sail

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

Sometimes the best way to experience the Bay of Islands is simply to slow down and enjoy the journey.

Unlike our Sail & Stop and Sail & Hike experiences, this charter has no scheduled island stops or activities. Instead, you can sit back, enjoy a drink, feel the breeze in the sails and take in uninterrupted views of the islands while your skipper takes care of the sailing.

It’s an ideal choice if you:

Want a relaxing experience without a set itinerary
Are short on time but still want to sail the Bay
Are celebrating a birthday, anniversary or special occasion
Are hosting friends, family or corporate guests
Prefer sailing and scenery over swimming or hiking
Want a private boat exclusively for your group

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

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A&A Barton profile picture
A&A Barton
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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.
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Gerrie Colazo profile picture
Gerrie Colazo
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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
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Elizabeth Clayton profile picture
Elizabeth Clayton
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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!!
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Sam Wiseman profile picture
Sam Wiseman
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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.
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Lauren Raffaele profile picture
Lauren Raffaele
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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 🍺
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Crazy Mama profile picture
Crazy Mama
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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.
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Carrie Costa profile picture
Carrie Costa
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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.
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Mike Bouvier profile picture
Mike Bouvier
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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.
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Marek profile picture
Marek
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Wonderful day with an amazing crew. I’ll be back next time I’m in Russell.

Our private sail-only charters typically run for 2–4 hours, with the duration able to be customised to suit your group, subject to availability.

No. This charter is designed specifically for scenic sailing and relaxation, without scheduled swimming, hiking or island stops.

No. No sailing experience is required. Your experienced skipper handles the sailing, and you’re welcome to ask questions and learn more about sailing along the way.

Yes. Private charters can usually be scheduled around your preferred departure time, subject to availability.

Yes. You’re welcome to connect your device to our onboard Bluetooth sound system and enjoy your own playlist.

Yes. Hibiscus Star has a spacious indoor saloon and covered cockpit, providing sheltered areas onboard.

Absolutely. Private charters are suitable for families with children of all ages.

Yes. You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks, or you can add optional catering to your charter.

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

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

Combine sailing with a scenic island walk through a predator-free wildlife sanctuary.

View Sail & Hike
Bayscapes Sailing Charters catamaran Hibiscus Star anchored in a secluded Bay of Islands cove

Add more adventure with swimming, paddle boarding, snorkelling and time to explore a beautiful Bay of Islands beach.

View Sail & Stop
Shared sailing charter in the Bay of Islands with island stop and water activities

Prefer a more social experience? Join other travellers on a shared sailing charter through the Bay of Islands.

View Shared Charters
YOUR SAILING ESCAPE AWAITS
Ready to Experience the Bay of Islands Under Sail?

Whether you’re celebrating with friends, entertaining clients or simply looking for a relaxing day on the water, our private sailing charter offers an unforgettable way to experience the Bay of Islands.

Your Boat. Your Group. Your Sailing Experience

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