Shared Day Sailing Charter in the Bay of Islands
Sail the Bay of Islands on a Small Group Catamaran with Island Time, Lunch and Water Activities Included
6 HOUR CHARTER WITH ISLAND STOP AND LUNCH
Embark on a Day Sailing Cruise from Paihia
Join a 6-hour small-group sailing charter from Paihia and discover the best of the Bay of Islands. Enjoy scenic sailing, island exploration, swimming, wildlife encounters, and water activities as you explore one of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastal regions.
Slow down, escape the crowds, and experience the Bay of Islands the way it should be. With guest numbers limited to just 19 people, our shared charter offers a comfortable and personal way to explore hidden bays, pristine beaches, and wildlife-rich islands that make this region world-famous. Spaces are limited so early booking is recommended.
Shared Day Charter Key Points
- ⛵ 6-Hour Sailing Adventure
- 📍 Departs from Paihia Wharf – Easily board the boat with no need to get your feet wet.
- 🏝 2-Hour Island Stop – Visit a wildlife preservation island
- 🏄 Water Activities – Paddle boards and snorkelling gear provided
- 🌿 Island Hike – Embark on an self-guided walk on a conservation island teeming with native birdlife
- 🍴 Lunch Included – A catered packed lunch is served onboard. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options are available on request.
- 👥 Maximum 19 Guests – Small group size for a more personal experience
- Facilities – Indoor and outdoor seating, flushing toilet, hot outdoor shower
- Locally Owned and Operated
- Flexible Cancellation – Cancel up to 24 hours prior to departure for a full refund
- Price – from $215 per person
What to bring on a day sail
- 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.
what You’ll experience on a 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:
- Swim in clear, sheltered waters
- Try stand-up paddle boarding
- 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.
What Is Included in a day sailing charter
✔ Professional skipper
✔ Scenic sailing
✔ Island stop
✔ Paddle boards
✔ Snorkelling gear (including fins)
✔ Lunch
✔ Complimentary tea, coffee & hot chocolate
SHARED DAY CHARTER
Fully Experience The Bay Of Islands
After departing Paihia Wharf at 9:30am, we set sail into the Bay of Islands. Enjoy panoramic views while relaxing on bean bags at the front of the catamaran, or settle into the comfortable indoor saloon as we cruise between islands. As we sail, our experienced local crew guide you through the region, sharing knowledge about the islands, wildlife, and history of the Bay of Islands. Keep a watch for dolphins, penguins, and other marine life as we make our way to a secluded island bay.
Our 2 hour island stop typically takes place at a sheltered bay on or nearby conservation islands like Moturua Island. We chose the best bay on the day for the conditions, we go where the big ferries don’t so we often have beautiful anchorages all to ourselves.
Once anchored, a variety of activities await; Jump off the boat and take a refreshing swim in the clear waters, try stand-up paddle boarding, or go snorkeling. Take a tender ride ashore and embark on a self-guided hike where you can view native birdlife. Or simply relax and soak up the tranquil surroundings. A tasty catered packed lunch will be served onboard the catamaran before we sail back to Paihia.
We look forward to welcoming you onboard!
ISLAND CONSERVATION
Wildlife Encounters in the Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands is home to an incredible variety of marine and bird life. On your sailing charter, keep an eye out for dolphins, seabirds, and native species as we explore sheltered waters and island sanctuaries.
With over 140 islands scattered across calm, protected waters, this region provides an ideal habitat for marine life and coastal bird species that thrive in a unique natural environment.
Marine Wildlife
Dolphins are regularly seen in the Bay of Islands, although sightings are not guaranteed. They are often spotted travelling through the sheltered channels between islands, and 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 overhead. Little blue penguins (kororā) may occasionally be seen around offshore islands and sheltered waters.
Common sightings include:
- Bottlenose dolphins
- Stingrays and eagle rays
- Little blue penguins (Kororā)
- Sea birds (gannets, white-fronted terns)
Occasional sightings include:
- Orca
- Pilot Whales
- Bronze whaler and hammerhead sharks
- New Zealand Fur Seals
The Bay of Islands is part of a protected marine mammal sanctuary, helping safeguard dolphins, whales, and other marine life. Because of this, there may be times when we observe wildlife from a distance or avoid interaction altogether. This is part of our commitment to protecting animals in their natural habitat.
Native Birdlife
The islands are part of ongoing conservation efforts designed to protect native wildlife and restore natural habitats. Several islands are predator-free sanctuaries, allowing native bird populations to recover and thrive.
During your island stop, you may take a short self-guided walk along marked tracks, offering a chance to experience the quieter side of the Bay of Islands and observe native birdlife in its natural setting.
Native Birds You May See:
- Tīeke (North Island saddleback)
- Toutouwai (North Island robin)
- Tūī
- Kererū (New Zealand wood pigeon)
Conservation Experience
Exploring the Bay of Islands by sail offers one of the best ways to experience this unique marine and island environment. The quiet movement of a sailing vessel allows for low-impact wildlife viewing and supports sustainable tourism in this world-renowned destination.
These conservation islands play an important role in protecting rare native species, making the Bay of Islands one of New Zealand’s most important coastal wildlife habitats.
Still wondering what it’s really like onboard? Here’s what guests say after their day with us
“Sailing in the Bay of Islands aboard this beautiful catamaran was a major highlight of our visit to NZ. Brad and Monique’s hospitality, knowledge and sailing skills were outstanding. Highly recommended!”
“Absolutely brilliant experience. Very professional from booking to the trip itself. No pressure, relaxed atmosphere, and a perfect day on the water. ‘Best day ever’ said my wife.”
“Super fun day excursion. The crew were top notch and very friendly. We saw dolphins, enjoyed swimming and paddle boarding, and the island stop was a highlight for the whole family.”
“The boat was immaculate, well equipped, and very comfortable. Monique and Brad were fantastic hosts and made the whole day relaxing and enjoyable. Lunch was excellent.”
“One of the best boat charters we’ve taken anywhere in the world. Wonderful clean and comfortable boat, tasty lunch catered from a local restaurant, and a friendly and knowledgeable crew. Zero complaints and would absolutely do this again.”
“Such a relaxing and beautiful day out. The sailing was smooth, the scenery was incredible, and it never felt crowded at any point. The crew made everything easy and enjoyable from start to finish. A real highlight of our trip to the Bay of Islands.”
Ready to Experience It?
Book your shared sailing charter and discover the Bay of Islands.
More Bay of Islands Sailing Experiences
Shared Afternoon Cruise
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.
Private Boat Tours
Enjoy the freedom of your own private sailing charter in the Bay of Islands. Private Charters allow you to explore at your own pace. Swim in sheltered bays, relax on deck, or visit beautiful islands while enjoying the privacy and comfort of your own sailing experience.
DISCOVER MORE
EXPLORE THE BAY OF ISLANDS
ISLAND STOP
Uncover the natural beauty of the Bay of Islands with a stop over at an island only accessible by boat. We go where the big ferries don’t take you and often have beautiful anchorages all to ourselves.
MARINE LIFE
There is lots of marine life in the Bay Of Islands to spot along our sailing tour. Our favorite is the Little Blue Penguin. The smallest penguin in the world. There are also dolphins, stingrays and an array of sea birds to view.
WATER ACTIVITIES
Swim: Dive off the boat into clear waters. Snorkel: Experience an underwater adventure and discover marine life. Paddle board: Test your balance as you navigate the ocean on our stand up paddle boards.
SELF-GUIDED HIKE
Our self-guided island walk showcases the pest free, wildlife sanctuary islands. Walk among regenerating native forests and listen to the birdsong as you spot reintroduced species like the Saddleback.
FAQs – Shared Day Sailing Charter
What time does the Shared Day Charter depart?
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
How long is a Shared Day Charter?
The charter lasts approximately 6 hours and includes sailing time and a 2-hour island stop.
Is lunch included?
Yes, a catered packed lunch is included, with dietary options available.
Do I need sailing experience?
No sailing experience is required. Our crew handles all sailing but we love to answer any questions you have about sailing along the way.
What activities are included during the day?
Your shared day sailing charter includes scenic sailing through the Bay of Islands. An island stop with opportunities for swimming, paddleboarding, and snorkelling, or you can enjoy a short self-guided walk and explore native birdlife.
Will we see dolphins or marine wildlife?
Wildlife sightings are common in the Bay of Islands, and dolphins are often seen during our charters. While sightings cannot be guaranteed, many guests enjoy encounters with marine life such as; dolphins, penguins, stingrays and seabirds on our sailing charters.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunhat, sunglasses, walking shoes, and a jacket.
Who are your charters perfect for?
Our 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