The Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s most iconic sailing spots, offering a mix of historic charm, stunning scenery, and crystal-clear waters. Its more than 140 islands provide endless opportunities to explore by boat, whether you’re after a leisurely cruise, a hands-on sailing adventure, or a private charter tailored to your interests. What makes sailing here particularly special is the combination of authentic maritime experience—on vintage tall ships or modern yachts—and the chance to get close to marine life, from dolphins to penguins. We especially like the Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sailing on R. Tucker Thompson Including BBQ Lunch, which combines historical charm with a relaxing day on the water, and the Phantom Sailing Bay of Islands, for its intimate group size and personalized experience.
If you love maritime history, the tall ships offer a taste of the past, while active travelers will appreciate the opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, and island hikes. The variety of options means there’s something for every type of sailor, from those seeking a peaceful sunset cruise to those wanting to learn the ropes on a working ship.
- 1. Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sailing on R. Tucker Thompson Including BBQ Lunch
- 2. Full-Day Bay of Islands Tour by Vigilant Yacht Charters
- 3. Phantom Sailing Bay of Islands
- 4. Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sundowner Sailing
- 5. Bay of Islands: Awesome Day Sailing Tour with Island Stop
- 6. Private Yacht Charter and Island Excursions in the Bay of Islands
- 7. Afternoon Sail – Bay of Islands Vigilant Yacht Charters
- How to Choose Your Bay of Islands Sailing Experience
- Final Thoughts
1. Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sailing on R. Tucker Thompson Including BBQ Lunch
This tour is a standout for its authentic tall ship experience aboard the R. Tucker Thompson, a beautifully restored replica schooner built in the traditional style. The 5.5-hour cruise offers a relaxing way to spend a morning or afternoon, with the opportunity to help hoist the sails or simply enjoy the scenery. The itinerary includes a round-trip ferry from Paihia to Russell, which itself is an enjoyable part of the experience, giving you a taste of local life before boarding the ship.
What makes this trip particularly memorable is the onboard BBQ lunch and fresh scones, making it feel more like a leisurely picnic at sea than a typical boat tour. The crew’s friendliness and willingness to involve passengers in sailing activities add a hands-on feel that many travelers find rewarding. Reviewers often mention the crew’s enthusiasm and the immersive nature of the voyage, with many noting it as a highlight of their trip to New Zealand.
This tour is perfect for those who want a relaxing, scenic sail with some interactive elements and great food. The $111.08 price point offers excellent value for a half-day adventure full of character and stunning views.
Bottom Line: A classic tall ship experience that combines maritime tradition with good food and friendly company, ideal for history lovers and casual sailors alike.
2. Full-Day Bay of Islands Tour by Vigilant Yacht Charters
For around $114.81 per person, this full-day sailing tour offers a deep dive into the Bay’s natural beauty aboard the Vigilant, a luxurious and modern yacht. Departing from Russell, the 5.5-hour cruise is notable for its flexible itinerary, where the captain decides which islands to visit based on weather and marine life. This unpredictability adds a sense of adventure, and you can learn some sailing skills along the way if you’re interested.
Highlights include stops at picturesque islands where you can snorkel with the provided gear, kayak, or simply relax on secluded beaches. The tour includes lunch, hot drinks, and snorkeling gear, making it a comprehensive day on the water. Many reviews praise Captain Nat and Chef Anita for their professionalism and friendliness, noting how they make the trip both enjoyable and educational.
The round-trip transfers from Russell mean you can relax without worrying about logistics. This tour suits travelers who want an active, engaging experience with a mix of sailing, swimming, and exploring.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, flexible sailing day for those who want to get up close with marine life and enjoy a comfortable, personalized cruise.
3. Phantom Sailing Bay of Islands
This 5-6 hour cruise on the Phantom, a private yacht operated by a passionate sailing family, offers an intimate experience limited to just 10 guests. The emphasis is on personalized service, with a focus on cruising in style and comfort. The hosts, Rick and Robin, share their love for sailing and local knowledge, making this trip as much about storytelling as it is about stunning scenery.
The itinerary features a stop at a quiet island where you can hike for breathtaking views, snorkel, or simply relax on deck. The home-made lunch served on board is a highlight, along with the chance to swim or snorkel in the clear waters. Reviews often highlight the friendly, knowledgeable hosts and the personal touch that larger tours can’t match. The small group size ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd; instead, you’ll feel like a guest on a friend’s boat.
This trip is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, exclusive experience with plenty of time for swimming, hiking, and conversation. The $121.01 price reflects its boutique nature, making it a good value for those wanting a more tailored experience.
Bottom Line: For a relaxed, personal sailing trip with great conversation and island exploration, this tour hits the mark.
4. Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sundowner Sailing
If you’re craving a short but atmospheric experience, the Sundowner sailing tour is perfect. For around $61.44 per person, this 1-hour 50-minute cruise on the R. Tucker Thompson offers a laid-back way to enjoy the sunset and the scenic bay. It’s a great choice if you’re tight on time but still want the ambiance of sailing on a tall ship.
The tour includes round-trip ferry tickets to Russell and a shared antipasto platter served on board, along with drinks available for purchase. The focus here is on relaxing and soaking up the views, making it ideal for a romantic evening or a peaceful wind-down after a day of exploring.
Reviewers often mention how friendly and dedicated the staff are, and many appreciate the casual, intimate atmosphere. Since it’s a shorter trip, it’s best suited for travelers who want a taste of sailing and sunset views without a full-day commitment.
Bottom Line: An excellent, budget-friendly way to enjoy a scenic sunset with a relaxed vibe and light snacks.
5. Bay of Islands: Awesome Day Sailing Tour with Island Stop
This 6-hour cruise aboard Gungha II, a 65-foot ocean-going yacht, offers a fun, lively day at sea. It’s designed for those who want a more adventurous and informal sailing experience, with the highlight being the secluded island stopover.
The tour features a snorkeling gear, fresh lunch, and the chance to explore the island’s native habitats. The captain takes you to the best spots for marine mammals, seabirds, and native bush, making it a rich nature-filled experience. Many reviews emphasize the huge amount of fun and the informal, approachable atmosphere.
This trip suits travelers eager to enjoy the environment, with options to walk, snorkel, or just relax on deck. The value for money is high, considering the comprehensive activities and the size of the yacht. It’s perfect for active travelers or families wanting an engaging day.
Bottom Line: A lively, flexible adventure aboard a capable yacht, ideal for those wanting an active day with marine wildlife and island exploration.
6. Private Yacht Charter and Island Excursions in the Bay of Islands
Looking for a completely customized experience? This private yacht charter allows you to craft your perfect day in the Bay. For about $930.86 per group, up to 8 people can design a trip that matches their interests—whether that’s sailing, paddleboarding, snorkeling, or simply relaxing at a quiet beach.
The hosts, Erin and Bruno, are highly flexible, and reviews highlight their ability to tailor the day perfectly. One reviewer noted how they served an incredible lunch and created an itinerary that suited the group’s preferences. The boat itself is built by Bruno, adding a personal touch.
Because it’s private, this tour is best suited for families, friends, or couples wanting exclusivity and control over their day. The main drawback is the higher price, but the personalized nature often justifies the cost.
Bottom Line: Ideal for groups seeking a tailored, private sailing day, with the flexibility to choose activities and pace.
7. Afternoon Sail – Bay of Islands Vigilant Yacht Charters
This afternoon private sail offers a more intimate experience on the Vigilant, a classic 42 ft cutter rig yacht. Up to 10 people can enjoy the 3-hour cruise, leaving from Russell. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful escape in the late afternoon, with plenty of space to lounge and chat.
The itinerary is flexible, with the captain choosing the best island or anchorage based on weather and marine life. Many reviewers mention the knowledgeable captain who shares stories about Russell’s history, enriching the experience. The yacht’s teak decks and traditional design give it authentic charm, adding to the relaxed atmosphere.
This tour’s main appeal is privacy and comfort, especially for couples or small groups wanting to enjoy the bay at a slower pace. The price per group ($520.49) reflects its exclusivity, making it a more premium option for a special occasion.
Bottom Line: A private, relaxed afternoon sail for those wanting a peaceful, scenic experience on a classic yacht.
How to Choose Your Bay of Islands Sailing Experience
When selecting your ideal trip, consider your budget, time available, and what kind of experience you’re after. If you love a traditional tall ship with a relaxing BBQ, the R. Tucker Thompson is hard to beat. For a more active day full of snorkeling and island exploration, the Vigilant Yacht offers great value and flexibility.
Those wanting an intimate, personalized experience should consider the Phantom sailing trip, while travelers seeking a romantic sunset or shorter cruise will enjoy the Sundowner tour. For private groups, the custom yacht charter offers full flexibility, albeit at a higher price.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season. Consider weather patterns—sailing in summer (December to February) usually means calmer seas and better wildlife spotting. Think about your activity level: if you prefer relaxing with a good book, a shorter evening cruise might be best; if you’re eager for action, full-day trips with snorkeling or island hikes will suit you better.
Final Thoughts
Bay of Islands offers a fantastic range of sailing experiences, from historic tall ships to private charters tailored to your interests. The Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sailing on R. Tucker Thompson appeals to those who love maritime tradition and relaxed food, while the Vigilant Yacht suits active travelers wanting to snorkel and explore islands. For a boutique, personal touch, the Phantom Sailing is hard to beat.
No matter your choice, booking early and considering your preferred pace and activities will ensure you make the most of your time in this stunning bay. With so many options, you’re sure to find a sailing experience that turns your visit into a treasured memory.