Shared Day Charter: Social and Stunning Day ON THE WATER
Set sail on a 6 hour day charter with island stops, swimming, and relaxed cruising — one of the best ways to experience the Bay of Islands.
SHARED DAY CHARTER
Embark on a Day Sailing Cruise through the Bay of Islands
Join our 6-hour shared day charter departing from Paihia Wharf in the Bay of Islands. Experience one of New Zealand’s most spectacular coastal destinations on a relaxed small-group sailing experience. Our charter combines scenic cruising, island exploration, water activities, swimming, wildlife encounters aboard our spacious catamaran.
With guest numbers limited to just 19 people, our shared sailing charter offers a comfortable and personal way to discover hidden bays, pristine beaches, and wildlife-rich islands that make this region world-famous.
6 HOUR CHARTER WITH ISLAND STOP AND LUNCH
Fully Experience The Bay Of Islands
After departing Paihia Wharf at 9:30am, we set sail across the turquoise waters of 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. Along the way keep 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 around Urupukapuka Island or nearby conservation islands like Moturua Island within the Bay of Islands. 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 paddleboarding, 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!
Shared Day Charter Highlights
- Sailing Charter – 6 hour charter on sailing catamaran with ample space to move around and relax even with sails up!
- Departure Point – Paihia Wharf; Paihia’s main hub for boat departures. easily board the boat with no need to get your feet wet.
- Island Stop – 2 hour anchorage on a wildlife preservation island
- Water Activities – Paddleboards and snorkelling gear provided
- Island Hike – Embark on an self-guided walk on a conservation island teeming with native birdlife
- Lunch – A freshly prepared catered lunch is served onboard while anchored in the bay. Our packed lunches include a selection of fresh items designed to keep you energised throughout the day. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options are available on request.
- Small Group Size – Maximum of 19 guests onboard for a more personal experience
- Facilities – Indoor and outdoor seating, flushing toilet, hot outdoor shower
- Locally Owned and Operated
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:
- 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.
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.
LOOKING FOR SOMETHING ELSE?
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.
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
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.
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.
Native Birds on Island Walk
During the island stop, guests have the opportunity to step ashore and enjoy a short self-guided walk along marked tracks. These island walks offer a chance to experience the quieter side of the Bay of Islands and observe native birdlife in its natural setting. While exploring the bush and coastal tracks, you may hear the distinctive calls of native recovering birds moving through the trees.
Native Birds You May See on Island Walks:
- Red Saddleback (Tīeke) – a rare native bird successfully reintroduced to predator-free islands as part of conservation efforts
- North Island Robin (Toutouwai) – curious ground-feeding birds often seen hopping along forest tracks
- Tūī – known for their distinctive song and iridescent feathers
- Kererū (New Zealand Wood Pigeon) – large native pigeons found in coastal forest
- Gannets and seabirds around coastal cliffs and open water
- Little Blue Penguins living along sheltered island shorelines
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.
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.
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. 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.