Bay of Islands: Small-Group Sailing & Island Hopping Day Tour

Summary

Sail the bay of islands with a russell skipper small group yacht day out

You’ll sail through the Bay of Islands with a local skipper guiding your small group from island to island—sometimes steering yourself or just lounging on deck. Swim, kayak into hidden corners, share stories over lunch, and listen to local history as you drift back toward Russell in late afternoon light.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the wood felt under my bare feet—old, smooth teak, warm from the sun. We’d barely left Russell wharf when our skipper, Tom (he grew up here—knows every little cove), handed me the helm for a minute. I didn’t expect that. The wind wasn’t too strong but enough to make the sails snap and groan in that comforting way, and someone laughed when I steered a little crooked. There were only eight of us plus Tom, so it all felt pretty relaxed right away.

We drifted between these green islands—Tom said there are 144, which honestly sounds made up but he swears it’s true—and picked one to anchor at. It was quiet except for distant gulls and the faint clink of someone making tea below deck. Lunch smelled like fresh bread and something herby; maybe basil? I took a kayak out to this little cave (got splashed more than I planned), then sat on the sand for a while just watching the water shift colors in weird ways. The others snorkeled or wandered off along the shore. No rush at all.

I tried asking about some Māori place names—probably butchered them, because Tom grinned and corrected me gently. He told us stories about shipwrecks and old trading days as we sailed back toward Russell. The sun was lower by then and everything went gold for a bit. I still think about that light sometimes, how it made even my wet towel look kind of magical. If you want crowds or big tours, this isn’t it—but if you want to actually feel like you’re part of this place for a day… well, you know.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sailing and island exploration

• Depart Russell wharf at 10am
• Raise sails and head to islands
• Explore one of 144 islands
• Lounge on the beach
• Kayak to a small cave
• Go snorkelling

Top questions

How many people are on the Bay of Islands sailing tour?

The tour takes up to 10 passengers plus crew for an intimate experience.

Does this Bay of Islands yacht tour include lunch?

Yes, lunch is included along with coffee and tea served onboard.

Where does the sailing tour depart from?

The yacht departs from Russell wharf in the Bay of Islands at 10am.

Are kayaks and snorkeling gear provided?

Yes, both kayaks and snorkeling equipment are available for use during stops.

Is pickup included in this Bay of Islands sailing day trip?

Port pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

Can children join this sailing tour?

Children can join if accompanied by an adult; infants may sit on an adult’s lap or ride in a stroller.

Do I need any sailing experience to join?

No experience is needed—guests can help sail or just relax as they wish.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?

Yes, vegetarian options can be arranged if requested at booking time.

What’s included

Your day includes port pickup and drop-off from Russell wharf, all kayaking and snorkeling gear provided onboard, coffee and tea throughout the trip, plus a fresh lunch served on deck as you explore different islands with your local guide before returning in the afternoon.