Small Group Sailing Charters From Paihia

Sail the Bay of Islands like a local on a small group sailing charter from Paihia. Choose a relaxing 2 hour afternoon cruise or our signature 6 hour sailing adventure with an island stop.

Two guests relaxing on the front deck of a catamaran during a Bay of Islands small group sailing charter

Our signature 6 hour sailing charter. Experience the Bay of Islands fully with an island stop for all of our water activities, island exploration, lunch and more.

6 Hours · Island Stop · Lunch Included · From $215 pp

Guests Relaxing on beanbags and the deck of a sailing catamaran in the Bay of Islands

Join us for a memorable 2-hour afternoon sailing cruise through the Bay of Islands harbour. Enjoy breathtaking scenery, refreshing breezes, and a relaxing atmosphere on the water.

2 Hours · Scenic Sail · Small Group · From $99 pp

Book a private Bay of Islands sailing charter and enjoy complete flexibility. Choose where you’d like to sail, relax with family or friends, and create your perfect day on the water.

View Private Charter Options
Hibiscus Star sailing catamaran with guests relaxing on deck, Bayscapes Sailing Charters, Bay of Islands

Join a small group sailing charter from Paihia and explore the Bay of Islands. Sail between secluded islands and sheltered bays aboard our spacious catamaran, with a maximum of 19 guests for a more personal experience.

2 or 6 Hour Options
Paihia Wharf Departures
Maximum 19 Guests
Island Stops*
Paddle Boarding and Snorkelling Available*
Wildlife Encounters
Learn about the Bay of Islands from our local crew

*select charters only

Bayscapes Sailing Charters catamaran Hibiscus Star anchored in a secluded Bay of Islands cove

Shared sailing charters offer a relaxed and social way to explore the Bay of Islands without the cost of a private charter. They are ideal for travellers who want to enjoy scenic sailing, island exploration, and wildlife encounters while sharing the experience with others. With small group sizes and experienced local crew, shared charters provide comfort, safety, and authentic local knowledge.

With our Bay of Islands sailing cruises, you’ll enjoy;

  • Small Group Experience: Limited to just 19 guests for a personal, intimate journey.
  • Expert Local Crew: Knowledgeable and friendly, with in-depth regional insights.
  • Comfort & Stability: Our modern, spacious catamaran offers a smooth, relaxing ride.
  • Access to Hidden Bays & Beaches: Discover secluded spots away from the crowds.
  • Flexible Options: Short 2 hour afternoon cruise or full 6 hour day charter
  • Unmatched Natural Beauty: Experience the stunning scenery of the Bay of Islands in style and comfort.

This is sailing the way it should be—simple, scenic, and stress-free.

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
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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
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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
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Wonderful day with an amazing crew. I’ll be back next time I’m in Russell.

Our shared group sailing charters depart from Paihia Wharf in the Bay of Islands.

A small group sailing charter allows individual travellers or small groups to join others on the same boat for a social and affordable sailing experience.

Our shared group charters range from 2-hour afternoon cruises to full 6-hour day charters.

Lunch is included on our full-day shared charter only.

No sailing experience is required. Our crew handles all sailing on our small group charters but we love to answer any questions you have about sailing along the way.

Step aboard a comfortable sailing catamaran with plenty of space to relax, enjoy the scenery and take in the experience at your own pace.

Include:

Shaded seating
Spacious deck areas
Friendly local crew
Safety equipment provided
Comfortable facilities onboard

Our shared small group charters are well suited to;

  • Travellers wanting a small-group sailing experience
  • Couples seeking a relaxing day on the water
  • Families wanting a safe island adventure
  • Cruise ship visitors exploring Paihia
  • Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts
YOUR SAILING ESCAPE AWAITS
Ready to Discover the Bay of Islands?

Join one of our relaxed small-group sailing charters or book the whole boat for your own private adventure.

• Small Groups • Private & Shared Charters • Paihia Departures •

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