Awesome Bay of Islands Day Sailing Adventure

If you’re dreaming of sailing through New Zealand’s stunning Bay of Islands, this tour promises a lively, genuine experience aboard the iconic GUNGHA II. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed descriptions highlight its appeal. It’s an adventure that combines excitement, relaxation, and a good dose of authentic maritime charm.

What we love most? The friendly crew’s sailing skills, the delicious eats, especially the fresh sandwich lunch, and the chance to see marine life like penguins and seabirds up close. A potential consideration is the weather dependence—good weather is essential for the best experience, which could mean cancellations in poor conditions.

This trip suits travelers craving a hands-on sailing experience, island exploration, and marine wildlife sightings. If you’re traveling in a group or solo, with a sense of adventure and appreciation for authentic, informal outings, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Authentic sailing experience on the GUNGHA II, the largest and most traveled yacht in the Bay of Islands.
• Inclusive, tasty lunch and snacks make for great value, especially for a full six-hour tour.
• Frequent marine life sightings including penguins and seabirds, often in playful groups.
• Unique island stopover with spectacular views, perfect for photos and a quick exploration.
• Informal, friendly crew eager to share sailing skills or let you relax.
• Weather-dependent tours may be canceled or rescheduled, so flexible planning helps.

The Experience: Setting the Scene

The GUNGHA II isn’t just a boat; it’s a floating legend in the Bay of Islands. At 65 feet, it’s the largest ocean-going yacht in the area, a vessel that has sailed across the Pacific and beyond, with crew members who are experienced sailors and storytellers. Their passion is evident, and their willingness to teach, help, or let you simply kick back makes for a memorable day.

Departing from Paihia at 10:00 am, the tour begins with some anticipation. The boat is spacious enough for around 20 travelers, giving it an intimate yet lively atmosphere. The meeting point at Bayscapes Sailing Charters is easy to find, and transfers from Russell are included, making logistics simple.

Once underway, the real magic begins—sailing through the wind-kissed harbor, feeling the rush of the wind in your hair, and enjoying the scenery unfold around you. As one reviewer described, it’s a “very steady yacht sail through windy harbour with great food and fun stop at island with great views,” highlighting the mix of calm sailing and exciting exploration.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: The Bay of Islands

The tour’s core is experiencing the natural beauty of the Bay of Islands, with its forested islands, crystalline waters, and abundant marine life. The sailing itself is relaxed but active—you’re encouraged to participate if you wish, or simply enjoy the ride. The crew’s expertise means you’re in safe hands, and their enthusiasm is contagious.

Island Stopover: A Highlight

The stop at a secluded island offers a chance to stretch your legs and take in the vistas. Reviewers mention the “great views” and appreciate the opportunity for photos. This island stop is also where you might spot playful groups of seabirds or penguins, especially if you keep an eye on the water. It’s a perfect spot for snorkeling, with masks and snorkels provided, giving you a peek into the underwater world.

Marine Life Encounters

Marine sightings are quite frequent. Penguins, seabirds, and other sea creatures are often seen in groups, playful and curious. One guest noted, “Very steady yacht sail through windy harbour with great food and fun stop at island with great views,” emphasizing the combination of sailing and wildlife.

Lunch and Snacks

After a few hours of sailing and exploring, it’s time for the yummy, freshly made sandwich lunch. The snacks in the morning also set the tone—light, tasty, and sufficient to keep everyone energized for the day. The food quality is praised, and it’s part of the value in this tour, with all activities included in the price.

Shower and Relaxation

Hot outside showers are available, offering a refreshing way to cool down or rinse off after snorkeling or island exploration—a thoughtful detail that adds comfort to the day.

The Crew and Sailing Experience

The crew aboard GUNGHA II is known for their friendliness and expertise. Many reviewers mention their eagerness to share sailing tips, making it a great tour for those interested in learning a bit about sailing. For others, the crew’s casual attitude allows for complete relaxation, which is equally valuable.

One review highlights the “windy adventure to a delightful island,” emphasizing the steady sailing and the crew’s skill in handling the vessel even in breezy conditions. Passengers often comment on how accessible and helpful the crew are, making the experience welcoming regardless of sailing experience.

Price and Value

At around $175 per adult, the tour offers full-day activities—sailing, snorkeling, island visit, and a hearty lunch—all included. This represents good value considering the duration, the quality of the vessel, and the personalized experience. The tour’s inclusive nature means travelers won’t be surprised by hidden costs, and the intimate group size keeps things engaging.

For budget-conscious travelers, the ticket priced at $108.60 per person appears to be a more affordable option, potentially a simplified version or a promotional rate. Either way, the overall value is strong given the comprehensive experience offered.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance, especially in peak season, as this is a popular tour with limited spots
• Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as you’ll spend plenty of time outdoors
• Snorkel gear is provided, but bringing your own mask or fins can enhance your experience
• Check the weather forecast; good weather means calmer seas and better wildlife sightings
• The tour lasts about 6 hours, so comfortable shoes and a light jacket are advisable
• If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking appropriate medication or choosing a calmer day

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This sailing adventure is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a relaxed, authentic day on the water. It’s a great choice for those wanting to learn about sailing, see marine wildlife, or just unwind with fantastic views and good company. If you love delicious food, especially fresh sandwiches and snacks, you’ll appreciate the thoughtful catering.

Travelers with a sense of curiosity about marine life or island landscapes will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate a lively but informal atmosphere—no stuffy formalities here.

The Sum Up

The Awesome Bay of Islands Day Sailing Adventure offers a balanced blend of sailing excitement, natural beauty, and relaxed hospitality. With a friendly crew, ample opportunities to observe wildlife, and a delicious lunch, it provides excellent value for a full day on the water. The experience is well-suited to travelers seeking an authentic, hands-on maritime outing that combines adventure with comfort.

Whether you’re a sailing novice eager to learn or simply someone who appreciates stunning scenery and fresh sea air, this trip is likely to leave you with lasting memories of your New Zealand adventure. Just remember to check the weather forecast and book early—this is a popular choice for a reason.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour departs from Bayscapes Sailing Charters in Paihia, with Russell transfers included, making logistics straightforward.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs for approximately 6 hours, from 10:00 am to around 4:00 pm, offering plenty of time for sailing, exploring, and relaxing.

What activities are included?
Sailing on the GUNGHA II, snorkeling with provided masks and snorkels, island stopover, and a fresh sandwich lunch are included. Snacks are also provided in the morning.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the informal nature makes it family-friendly. However, always check with the provider if you have very young children or specific needs.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a hat, and comfortable clothing. A light jacket may be helpful if it gets breezy. Snorkel gear is provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This detailed review highlights a tour that delivers a genuine, fun-filled day on the water in the stunning Bay of Islands. It’s a perfect choice for travelers craving adventure, comfort, and authentic marine encounters.