Bay of Islands Private Sailing Charter: Catamaran for up to 19

Anchor at a remote island only reachable by boat, in clear water with the group.

A private sailing charter on a catamaran in the Bay of Islands for groups up to 19, where you choose between swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding and beach time at secluded bays and sheltered anchorages. The skipper tailors the day to your group's pace. The 6-hour outing includes paddleboard and snorkeling gear, and a catered lunch can be arranged with dietary options on request.

Step-by-step itinerary

Private sailing and island excursion

• Sail through Bay of Islands
• Anchor at remote island
• Enjoy island excursion
• Return sail to starting point

The experience

The Bay of Islands catamaran holds up to 19 people and runs on your schedule, not a fixed itinerary. You sail for roughly 2 hours into the bays, then anchor at a remote island accessible only by boat for a 2-hour island excursion: swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding or simply sitting on deck while the water and the cliffs do the work. The return sail takes another 2 hours. Your experienced skipper reads the group and adjusts: if everyone wants to stay longer at one anchorage, you stay. If the wind shifts or someone wants to try paddleboarding instead of snorkeling, the day bends to fit.

Paddleboards and snorkeling equipment are on board and included. The restroom is onboard. If your group wants a catered lunch, the operator arranges it with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free options available. You order what you need when you book. Alcoholic beverages are bring-your-own. Nothing is sold on board.

What’s included

• Paddleboard and snorkeling equipment.
• onboard restroom.
• experienced English-speaking skipper who tailors the day to your group's pace and interests.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 09:30

Book up to2d before

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsNo refund if you cancel.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Low physical effortPublic transport nearby

Operated by Bayscapes Charters

Is this one for you?The catamaran departs from the Bay of Islands, so if you're staying in Paihia or nearby without a car, confirm the pickup point and meeting time when you book. The operator can arrange collection from your accommodation or direct you to the departure location.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. No refund if you cancel.

How long is the full sailing day in the Bay of Islands?

The outing runs 6 hours total: roughly 2 hours sailing out, 2 hours at the remote island, and 2 hours sailing back. Your skipper can adjust timing based on what your group wants to do.

What can we do at the remote island anchorage?

The remote island is accessible only by boat and offers clear water for swimming and snorkeling. Paddleboards are available if you want to explore from the water, or you can relax on the beach or onboard while taking in the views.

Is snorkeling gear provided, or do we need to bring our own?

Snorkeling equipment is included and on board. Paddleboards are also provided at no extra cost.

Can we bring our own food and drinks, or is catering required?

Catering is optional. If you want a catered lunch, the operator arranges it with dietary options on request. Alcoholic beverages are bring-your-own. The boat does not sell drinks onboard.

Is this suitable for families with children or people who have never paddleboarded?

The charter is suitable for all physical fitness levels. Families often book it. Children can swim, snorkel or paddleboard depending on their comfort, and the skipper adjusts the day to the group's needs.