Shared Day Sailing Charter | Bay of Islands

A relaxed day of sailing, swimming, snorkelling and island exploring. Small groups, plenty of space and a beautiful predator-free island stop — with lunch included.

Escape the crowds on a relaxed 6 hour sailing charter through the Bay of Islands. Experience an Island Stop with lots of time to explore – swim, walk, paddle board or simply relax without rushing from one stop to the next.

6 Hours
Small Group
Island Stop
Lunch Included

From $215 per person

Hibiscus Star sailing catamaran with guests relaxing on deck, Bayscapes Sailing Charters, Bay of Islands
Guests Relaxing on beanbags and the deck of a sailing catamaran in the Bay of Islands

With a maximum of 19 guests aboard our 40ft sailing catamaran, there’s room to stretch out, enjoy the scenery and actually relax. No crowded decks or rushed itinerary — just a beautiful day on the water.

Sail under wind power

Feel the sails fill and experience the Bay from the water.

Explore a beautiful island

Spend around two hours anchored in a sheltered bay.

Local Knowledge

Our local crew share knowledge of the islands, wildlife and region.

No rushed itinerary. No crowded boat.

We keep the group small and the day relaxed. There’s time to sail, stop, swim, explore, eat lunch, lie on a beanbag and simply enjoy being in the Bay of Islands.

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

Posted on Google Google
A&A Barton profile picture
A&A Barton
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex 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 Google
Gerrie Colazo profile picture
Gerrie Colazo
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex 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 Google
Elizabeth Clayton profile picture
Elizabeth Clayton
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex 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 Google
Sam Wiseman profile picture
Sam Wiseman
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex 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 Google
Lauren Raffaele profile picture
Lauren Raffaele
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex 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 Google
Crazy Mama profile picture
Crazy Mama
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex 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 Google
Carrie Costa profile picture
Carrie Costa
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex 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 Google
Mike Bouvier profile picture
Mike Bouvier
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex 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 Google
Marek profile picture
Marek
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex 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.

Explore The Bay Of Islands

Discover More With An Island Stop

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 choose from a range of optional activities — enjoy one or try them all:

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

Enjoy a self-guided walk through native bush and discover the island’s natural beauty.

Guests snorkelling in clear blue water during a sailing charter

Swim, snorkel or paddle board in the clear, sheltered waters of the Bay of Islands.

A couple sits on beanbags at the front of a catamaran, soaking up the sun and the serene ocean surroundings on a sailing charter in the Bay of Islands.

Stay aboard, soak up the scenery and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

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

Wildlife & Island Conservation

The Bay of Islands is home to abundant marine life and predator-free wildlife sanctuary islands. Keep watch for dolphins, seabirds, little blue penguins and other marine life as you sail between the islands.

During the island stop, explore native bush and discover the conservation work helping restore New Zealand’s native birdlife.

Wildlife sightings are common but cannot be guaranteed. We follow responsible wildlife-viewing practices and respect marine protection guidelines.

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

A shorter scenic sailing experience through the Bay of Islands.

View Afternoon Cruise
guests on a private catamaran sailing charter

Enjoy the boat exclusively with your own group.

View Private Charters

Our shared day sailing charter typically departs from Paihia Wharf at 9:30am. Please arrive 10 minutes prior to departure for boarding. We return between 3:15 – 3:30pm

Yes, a catered lunch is included. Dietary requirements can be arranged with advance notice.

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

Wildlife sightings are common in the Bay of Islands, but they cannot be guaranteed. Dolphins, seabirds, stingrays and other marine life may be spotted during the charter.

We recommend a jacket, swimwear, towel, sunhat, sunglasses and walking shoes. You’re also welcome to bring your own drinks and snacks.

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 •

Scroll to Top