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15 BEST Cruises in the Bay of Islands: Boat Tours, Sailing & More

Support nz pocket guide and get our huge ebook collection to access our tips on the go, sailing, cruises and boat tours in paihia, russell and the bay of islands.

Don’t look forlorn at the glistening waters of the Bay of Islands from shore, get out there on one of the sailing cruises, catamaran tours or even a jet boat ride. There’s no better way to experience the bay and its island highlights than a boat cruise, so take your pick from our diverse selection of the best cruises in the Bay of Islands, including from Paihia and Russell .

Plus, for planning more of your trip according to your unique travel style, check out The Complete Travel Guide to the Bay of Islands and the  10 Best Things to Do in the Bay of Islands .

1. Fullers GreatSights – Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise – The Best Cruise from Paihia

Deliver mail to remote islands in the Bay of Islands and see iconic sights on the Fullers GreatSights ‘ Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise (now operated by Explore ). Enjoy a smooth cruise on their large catamaran with multiple viewing decks ideal for spotting dolphins and other marine wildlife. A highlight is heading all the way to the end of the Cape Brett Peninsula and through the giant archway island known as the Hole in the Rock . The cruise lasts approximately four hours. Find out more about the cruise and book tickets on Klook or  Viator . 

Location: Departures from 69 Marsden Road, Paihia Wharf or Russell Wharf, The Strand.

2. R. Tucker Thompson Sailing Cruise – The Most Unique Cruise in the Bay of Islands

One of the most striking vessels in the Bay of Islands, R. Tucker Thompson is a 100-year-old tall ship. On their 5 hr 30 mins day cruise, help hoist the sails, climb the rigging or simply enjoy relaxing on the deck. The cruise includes morning tea, as well as a barbecue lunch. You’ll also anchor in a secluded bay to enjoy some swimming in the warmer months. Sunset voyages are also available. Find out more about the cruises on Viator and Klook . 

3. Barefoot Sailing Adventures – Island Hopper Day Cruise – The Best Sailing in the Bay of Islands

A laidback way to see the Bay of Islands is on the catamaran sailing yacht with Barefoot Sailing Adventures . As Paihia’s only cruise that departs from the beach, you’re encouraged to go “barefoot” from the get-go. Then kick back on one of the yacht’s beanbags with morning tea. Enjoy the views and look out for dolphins on the way to the cruise’s island destination for snorkelling, paddleboarding and enjoying some lunch.

Location: Paihia Beach, Paihia.

4. Explore – Bay of Islands Discovery Cruise – The Best Cruise for Families in the Bay of Islands

Jump on board Explore ‘s modern catamaran for a day out in the Bay of Islands. See the sights of the bay with full onboard commentary, while looking out for dolphins. You’ll sail through the iconic Hole in the Rock , as well as stop by the scenic Urupukapuka Island for a barbecue lunch/dinner. The experience lasts approximately five hours.   Plus, see more family-friendly activities in the  10 Things to Do in the Bay of Islands with Kids .

Location: The ticket office is 60 Marsden Road, Paihia. Cruises depart from 69 Marsden Road, Paihia Wharf or Russell Wharf, The Strand.

5. The Rock Adventure Cruise – The Best Overnight Cruise in the Bay of Islands

Stay overnight on the waters of the Bay of Islands with The Rock Adventure Cruise . Your cruise departs on an evening where you’ll experience night fishing, kayaking over bioluminescent algae, and tucking into a barbecue dinner. You’ll stay in one of the private cabins or dorm cabins of this purpose-built floating hostel before waking up the next morning to snorkelling and/or hiking on one of the islands. The experience lasts approximately 22 hours.   Plus, for more budget-friendly experiences, check out the 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in the Bay of Islands .

Location: Cruises depart from 69 Marsden Road, Paihia Wharf.

6. Carino Wildlife Cruise – The Best Dolphin Cruise in the Bay of Islands

For a sailing tour with an emphasis on wildlife and dolphin viewings, choose the Carino Wildlife Cruise . The six-hour cruise on a 15 m (50 ft) catamaran yacht focuses on looking out for little blue penguins, gannets and, of course, the Bay of Islands’ resident pods of dolphins. The cruise includes an island stop with a scenic walk, as well as a barbecue lunch and the opportunity to snorkel from the beach. See more places to spot dolphins in the 5 Best Places to Swim with Dolphins in New Zealand .

7. Island Getaway Tours – Bay of Islands Cruise and Island Tour – The Best Bespoke Cruise in the Bay of Islands

A more active cruise in the Bay of Islands, Island Getaway Tours  offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy watersports and a hike on an island on their cruise and island tour. They have small-group and private tours available with snorkelling gear, paddleboards and more to make the most of your day. Light refreshments are included but you might want to bring your own lunch. Find out more about the five-hour tour on Viator and Klook . 

8. Bay of Islands Adventures – Bay of Islands Jet Boat Tour – The Best Jet Boat in the Bay of Islands

For an alternative way to cruise the Bay of Islands, jump on the high-speed thrill ride that is Xtreme Jet ! More about epic 360° spins than exploration, the 30-minute experience gets you darting across the calm waters of the sheltered Bay of Islands at speeds of up to 80 kph! Plus, check out other jet boat tours in the  20 Best Places to Jet Boat in New Zealand .

Location: Tours depart from 69 Marsden Road, Paihia Wharf.

9. Bay of Islands Cruise & Kayak – Waterfall Cruise – The Best River Cruise in the Bay of Islands

Forget the bay with 144 islands, Bay of Islands Cruise & Kayak takes you on an alternative cruise down the Waitangi River. The trip begins on a specially-built boat topped with kayaks and paddleboards to enjoy later. The 40-minute cruise takes you past cormorant colonies and mangrove forests on the way to Harurru Falls where it’s time to get out and have some paddling fun! The whole experience lasts approximately 2h45mins. Find out more on Viator and Klook . 

Location: Te Karuwha Parade, Waitangi Bridge, Waitangi.

10. Ecocruz – Overnight Sailing Cruise – The Best Luxury Cruise in the Bay of Islands

Getaway for three days on a sailing adventure with Ecocruz . Their 22 m (72 ft) yacht is kitted out with a private double room and shared bunk cabin, making it ideal for families, couples and groups of mates looking for an awesome weekend activity in the bay. The trip includes highlights like the Hole in the Rock , visiting two islands and anchoring in quiet bays where you can enjoy snorkelling, kayaking and wildlife. Note that tours only operate between November and May. And for more experiences like this, check out the  10 Best Luxury Experiences in the Bay of Islands .

5 More Cruises and Sailing Tours in the Bay of Islands

And for some honourable mentions, here are five more amazing cruises, boat tours and sailing charters in the Bay of Islands:

• Bayscapes Charters – Sailing catamaran tours with a 2-hour island stop including SUP boards, snorkelling and lunch
• Love Machine Yacht Charter – Private sailing charter and day tour for up to eight guests
• Vigilant Yacht Charters – Sailing tours departing from Russell with lunch, kayaks and snorkelling included
• Phantom Sailing – Sail the Bay of Islands with a lunch stop and a chance to hike, snorkel and swim
• Silver Wave Yacht Charters – Luxury catamaran yacht tour with paddleboards, island hike, beach games and lunch.

For more sailing around the country, check out the 10 Best Sailing Tours in New Zealand .

More About Cruises in the Bay of Islands

That’s it for our guide to the best cruises from Paihia, Russell and the Bay of Islands. Get more advice for your trip to the Bay of Islands from the following guides:

• 20 Best Things to Do in the Bay of Islands
• 20 Best Things to Do in Paihia
• 10 Best Things to Do in Russell

Finally, see how these cruises compare to the  15 Best Boat Cruises in New Zealand and plan the rest of your time in the bay with  The Complete Travel Guide to the Bay of Islands .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Adventure Mark (Health and Safety Audit - Updated [2024])
• Work Safe NZ (Adventure Activities Guidelines - Updated [2024])
• Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])
• NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
• Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
• TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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Bayscapes charters.

Luxury Sailing Charters In The Bay Of Islands

Relax and take in the breath-taking views as we sail along the stunning coastline of the Bay Of Islands. Onboard our spacious catamaran you'll have plenty of deck space to move around and take in the sights. Anchor at a secluded bay and where you can relax and unwind, take a refreshing swim or get your adrenaline pumping with some water sports, like paddle boarding and snorkelling. Find a charter to suit you and create your Escape In The Bays!

Shared day charter.

Experience the beauty of the Bay Of Islands and the thrill of sailing with our 6 hour Shared Charter, perfect for those who want to share the adventure with new friends.

A private sailing charter offers a luxurious and personalised experience, allowing you to customise your itinerary and enjoy the freedom of the open water with friends or family.

Unwind and rejuvenate on a peaceful sailing excursion, surrounded by the soothing sound of waves and the refreshing sea breeze.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding

Test your limits and your balance as you navigate the ocean on our stand up paddle boards.

Dive into the refreshing waters and enjoy a swim in the open ocean.

Snorkelling

Experience an underwater adventure and discover vibrant marine life with a snorkelling experience.

Why We Are Rated The No. 1 Sailing Charter in The Bay Of Islands

            One of the best boat charters we’ve taken anywhere in the world. Wonderful clean and comfortable boat, tasty lunch catered from a local restaurant, and a friendly and knowledgeable crew (Brad and Monique). Zero complaints and would absolutely do this again next time we visit NZ. Highly recommended! Thank you!   Andrew Ellis:  Shared Charter

            Sailing in the Bay of Islands aboard this beautiful catamaran was a major highlight of our visit to NZ. We really enjoyed Brad and Monique's hospitality, knowledge and sailing skills. They provided great food & snacks, opportunities to explore a couple of islands, a lovely sail through the bay and had stand up paddle boards and snorkel gear available for use. Our private sailing charter with them was outstanding. Highly recommended!   Eric Wakely:  Private Charter

            Fantastic day sailing with Brad & Monique around the bay of islands. Friendly skippers with lots of knowledge about the area and who were more than happy to answer questions. We had a great time on our walk, using the SUP’s and snorkelling with a delightful lunch to finish it off. The catamaran was beautiful and clearly well looked after! Thanks very much, a great way to see the Bay of Islands, would definitely recommend!   Hamish Baxter:  Shared Charter

            We took the team from Blast Away Guys out on a private day charter. It was a fantastic experience and very relaxing. The kids got to see fish and an octopus while snorkelling around in the beautiful, clear waters. The boat itself is beautiful, very comfortable and they keep it in pristine condition. Thank you so much for a wonderful day Bayscapes.   Brya Page:  Private Charter

            What a wonderful experience on this great sailing yacht, with the lovely skippers Monique and Brad, in the beautiful Bay of Islands. We have had an amazing day on the catamaran, a nice walk with stunning views on a secluded island, time to swim, snorkel, use the paddleboard and to relax. Absolutely perfect!   Sierra Mike:  Shared Charter

            Amazing experience! We got really lucky with good weather during our stay in Paihia. This is a must do excursion with Brad and Monique! Their boat was really comfortable to accommodate 18 of us. The packed food provided was also scrumptious!!   Soni Bhat:  Private Charter

            So many thanks to our skippers Brad and Monique, we had a beautiful sailing trip with you with chilling in the bean bags as well as thrilling sailing moments „up wind“. Thanks for your kindness, know-how and answering all my unprofessional questions about the sail, the right wind-direction and the colours of the water. That was awesome!   Nikolaus Meiser:  Shared Charter

            Best charter in the Bay of Islands! We’ve been on private charters with Baycapes multiple times and will keep coming back. The boat is well outfitted and comfortable, the food is tasty, and Brad and Monique are lovely, have excellent knowledge of the area and always know the best spots to go on the day.   Jodi Salinsky:  Private Charter

            Brad and Monique were very friendly, professional and organised. The boat is fantastic, well-kept with good facilities, and a good size for day trips. We had a beautiful sail out to Army Bay and time to walk on the island and spot many native birds, as well as swimming and paddle boarding. Just what we were looking for as a day trip in the Bay.   Louise McMillan:  Shared Charter

            We held a family reunion in the Bay of Islands and had the pleasure of chartering with Bayscapes. There were 11 adults and 2 children. All were comfortably accommodated. The tour had a mixture of things to do , hike, water sports, sailing and a fantastic lunch. The staff were very friendly and knowledgeable. Would thoroughly recommend them.   Kevin O'Connor:  Private Charter

Want to find out more? Get in touch with us today.

• 69 Marsden Road, Paihia, New Zealand
•   +64-0220964008  -  Bayscapes Charters
•   [email protected]

Bay of Islands Yacht Charters – Experience the Best of New Zealand Sailing

SAIL THE BAY OF ISLANDS & BEYOND IN A LUXURY NZ BOAT CHARTER

Cruise the New Zealand coast in comfort

Escape to paradise on your terms. Imagine the Bay of Islands at your fingertips: crystal-clear waters lapping against your private boat charter in NZ, hidden coves beckoning exploration, and dramatic coastlines stretching towards the horizon. Create the memories of a lifetime with your favourite people as Silver Wave Yacht Charters transforms this dream into reality aboard our luxurious catamaran. Our extensive cruising grounds stretch from the picturesque Whitianga on the Coromandel Peninsula to the majestic North Cape at the northern tip of New Zealand’s North Island, encompassing the vibrant city of Auckland and the serene Hauraki Gulf. Experience unparalleled five-star service onboard your Bay of Islands sailing charter as you unwind in one of our four elegantly appointed staterooms, each featuring a private ensuite. Spend your days discovering new shores, indulging in gourmet cuisine, and partaking in exciting activities. Whether you wish to learn the art of sailing with our expert crew or bask in the beauty of your surroundings, the adventure is yours to design. At Silver Wave Yacht Charters in New Zealand, we provide the setting for unforgettable memories on the water. Book your dream voyage with us today.

OUR CRUISES & TOURS

BAY OF ISLANDS

The Bay of Islands unfolds like a mariner's dream with a cluster of 144 islands, each a treasure trove waiting to be unearthed. Explore this paradise with private yacht charters in the Bay of Islands. 

At Motuarohia, you can find twin lagoons with crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. You can also hike nature trails through Waipao Bay on Moturua Island.

Urupukapuka Island, the largest, boasts the charming Otehei Bay with its waterfront bar and cafe. Delve deeper into history with an archaeological walk, uncovering the remnants of ancient Maori villages.

Continue your island odyssey at Waewaetorea, where relaxation and panoramic views await on the white sand shores of Stingray Bay. Soak in the rich heritage at Marsden Cross at Rangihoua Bay, the site of New Zealand’s first European settlement. Get a glimpse of the early days of European-Māori interaction. Explore this historic site and many more island gems with the perfect yacht charter in NZ. 

Berth your NZ boat charter near the historic Stone Store and Kemp House in Kerikeri Inlet to explore New Zealand's oldest buildings.

Trek from Deep Water Cove to reach the iconic Cape Brett lighthouse and marvel at the abundance of sea life that calls the dive wreck, HMNZS Canterbury, home.

No Bay of Islands sailing charter is complete without a visit to Russell, once known as the “Hell Hole of the Pacific”. This historic site is whereMāori chief Hone Heke famously chopped down the British flagpole four times between 1844 and 1845, leading to the start of the Northern Wars. Today, it is a quiet, charming, and quaint village. Alternatively, visit nearby Okiato, New Zealand's first capital before returning on your boat cruise from Paihia .

HOLE IN THE ROCK

Experience The Silver Wave difference

Professional captain and chef

Your crew are experts in their profession. You can rest easy knowing you are in good hands.

We bring the toys

Head out snorkelling, biscuiting, paddleboarding and more with our water toys.

fuel included

We cover fuel expenses in all of our services.

Additional luxuries

From à la carte menus to arranging something special, the experts on our boat charter in New Zealand go the extra mile to ensure complete satisfaction.

With hundred of islands to discover, the only limit is how long you decide to spend with us.

Make a splash

Scuba dive a wreck or admire the abundant fish life in our marine parks.

Relax onboard

Feeling tired or need to stop and unwind? Enjoy the amenities and service aboard the luxury floating hotel we call Serenity.

Learn to sail

Let your NZ yacht charter captain teach you the ropes and increase your nautical knowledge, from navigation to steering and mooring.

Sailing catamaran "Serenity"

Choose your ideal sailing experience

As you prepare to embark on your unforgettable journey, we invite you to decide which type of cruise best suits your preferences. Would you enjoy the exclusivity and personalized service of a private charter, or the camaraderie and shared memories of a shared cruise?

PRIVATE CHARTERS

Experience the ultimate privacy and luxury with a cruise exclusively for you—perfect for intimate gatherings, special occasions, or simply indulging in a bespoke adventure.

PRIVATE MULTI-DAY CHARTER

Sit back, relax, and stay as long as you want with customisable itineraries designed to your interests. Let your captain showcase the best cruising grounds in New Zealand while your private chef serves you gourmet meals.

PRIVATE DAY CHARTER

Sail your boat charter in New Zealand through the Bay of Islands, stroll ashore on an island or two, enjoy some watersports, savour a chef-prepared meal, and relax as we sail the sea breeze back to port.

PRIVATE HALF-DAY CHARTER

Sail to the famous twin lagoons of Motuarohia Island, swim, paddleboard or take a walk to the best viewpoint in the Bay of Islands. Enjoy a chef-prepared meal and a relaxing sail back to port.

ISLAND EXPLORER DAY CRUISE

Sail with like-minded travellers on a day of exploration as we cruise through the Bay of Islands. Enjoy free time engaging in whatever activity interests you before sailing your boat charter in NZ through the sea breeze back to port at the end of the day.

EVENING SUNDOWNER CRUISE

Watch the sun set over Waitangi as you sail the inner Bay of Islands and unwind with a drink at our fully licensed bar—the perfect way to end the day.

SHARED CRUISES

Join fellow travellers and create lasting memories together. Enjoy the vibrant social atmosphere, make new friends, and share the joy of discovery with like-minded adventurers.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How far in advance should i book boat charters to the bay of islands.

Booking a boat cruise to the Bay of Islands depends on when you want to set sail. We have no limitations on how far in advance we can take reservations; contact us when you’re ready to book! Take note that popular times like holidays and public holidays fill up fast. 

If you have your heart set on a specific date, especially during peak season, contact us as soon as possible. We"ll be happy to check availability and help you plan your dream trip!

CAN I CUSTOMISE MY SAILING ITINERARY?

Absolutely! Whether you envision a short overnight escape or a multi-week exploration, we can tailor your New Zealand boat charter itinerary to your desired timeframe.

For those seeking the ultimate relaxation experience, our crew will take you to all the best spots to chill and soak up the sun. Otherwise, if exploration is your passion, you can collaborate with our captain to map a route to all the coolest spots when sailing the Bay of Islands . 

WHAT'S THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO CHARTER A YACHT IN NEW ZEALAND?

Although you can discover the beauty of New Zealand year round, the peak yacht charter season is during the summer months of December to late February. This peak season boasts warm weather of around 20-30°C and sunshine, perfect for soaking up the scenery from your private deck. However, these prime months also see high demand, which is why we recommend booking yacht charters to the Bay of Islands ahead of time to ensure you get the dates you want.

Top Rated Yacht

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New Years Eve Private Charter

Te Tau Hou Māori Sunset Cruise

Experience the Tau Hou Māori (Māori New Year) on the waterfront aboard Serenity.

Our satisfied client reviews

An amazing sunset cruise... unforgettable

Nga mihi o te tau hou Matariki - thank you to Scott and his team for hosting us aboard the Silver Wave Yacht. An amazing sunset cruise to celebrate Matariki - it really was a take your breath away experience and a very beautiful way for us to celebrate an event that is very close to my heart. Would absolutely recommend for anyone to book in with the Silver Wave team - I guarantee you the experience will be unforgettable. Nga mihi ki a koutou.

Gina and Ella

Very comfortable cabin and leisure area...

An incredible time aboard with Scott and his fantastic crew. A rare find in New Zealand to be on a superior yacht. Very comfortable cabin and leisure area for groups. Cannot recommend enough and can’t wait to come back!

Sharneigh Brown

It was a great time to unwind with our team...

We hired Silver Wave for our studio's staff party and absolutely loved it! It was a great time to unwind with our team and see more of our backyard. We had plenty of space on the front deck to lounge, share a grazing platter, and pop open some bubbles while getting a salty breeze in our hair. 10/10 recommend for a unique experience in the Bay.

Aligned Movement Pilates & Yoga Studio

SET SAIL WITH SILVER WAVE

Your dream escape awaits!

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Unforgettable Sailing in New Zealand

A day in the bay, the kiwi way, beautiful bay of islands tours, unique & fun new zealand sailing adventures.

Join us for a memorable kiwi experience by sail in a unique part of the world . You’ll get to explore the beautiful Bay of Islands with locals as we provide you with options to suit both adventurers and chill-seekers alike. Let our experienced and qualified team take you on a modern-day environmentally-conscious sailing adventure . We’ll explore the best of the Bay of Islands’ hidden gems, with a unique and personalised itinerary. Our small groups of around 16 passengers mean you won’t get lost in the crowd and you’ll feel like part of the crew! So, welcome aboard! Let the Barefoot crew share our love of sailing with you!

Operating Season: October - May

Island hopper day cruise, sundowner evening cruise, private charters.

Our sailing charters are a great option for travellers looking for a tailor-made private cruise . We welcome family groups, birthdays, hen parties, pre & post wedding gatherings, educational groups and work teams for corporate events and team building exercises.

Our 10m Tennant Turissimo Catamaran is a modern, well-equipped boat , offering our passengers a comfortable sailing experience for all and an unforgettable VIP experience.

Our sailing charters are a great option for travellers looking for a tailor-made private cruise. We welcome family groups, birthdays, hen parties, pre & post wedding gatherings, educational groups and work teams for corporate events and team building exercises.

Our 10m Tennant Turissimo Catamaran is a modern, well-equipped boat, offering our passengers a comfortable sailing experience for all and an unforgettable VIP experience.

Why Sail Barefoot?

100% kiwi owned & operated, unique bay of islands cruises, small groups, our sustainability promise, leave only footprints.

Our sustainability promise means we like to leave our “Barefoot” footprint as light as possible so our guests can enjoy this area for generations to come. That means our number one priority is respecting and protecting the local wildlife and the environment we share with them. For this reason, we operate to the highest standards of care for local wildlife, sustainability, and customer experience. There is so much more to our Sustainability Promise, click the buttons below to learn more.

Guests Who Happily Sailed With Us

Tripadvisor reviews.

Luke ran the perfect ship! Made us feel safe, welcome and comfortable for the 6 hours out on the water! The day had a bit of everything – even a cuppa tea in the morning and a cold beer on the way home. All the small touches were considered and Luke shared his stories and vast knowledge of sailing and the Bay of Islands with us! Made for the perfect day out – worth every cent and more!

Cindy Cleto

Amazing guide and sailor. Friendly, informative and safe. Beautiful island. Time to snorkel, walk and paddleboard.

Everything about this was amazing. Luke and Rachel made you feel extremely welcomed, we’re so knowledgeable about everything related to the day and lunch was great!

Rimon Morrison

Facebook reviews.

Really fun outing with a super cool crew who make you feel comfortable and welcome from start to finish. Amazing views, and very smooth sailing while having a yarn and a cold beer. Really enjoyed the refreshing swim too. Thanks so much for a really cool experience. Highly recommend!

Ashwini Wijesundera

Amazing 😍 Had a great experience with Barefoot cruise. Rachael and Luke you guys done a great job. Highly recommend. Thank you so much.

Miranda Cornish

Five star experience – a shiny boat, gorgeous bay, a chill captain with lots of interesting local knowledge, a group small enough it feels like a day on the water with friends, tasty lunch, paddle boarding and beer – the perfect day out!

Meet Barefoot Sailing Adventures

Rachael and Luke have always loved the sea, sailing and New Zealand’s beautiful nature! It had been their dream for many years to combine these passions and host Bay of Islands boat tours. So when they found the right sailing boat, they knew that with their years of experience working the sailing charter industry together, that with a fair wind they were ideally placed to make their dream a reality.

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Get in touch with us today, we can’t wait to chat with you!

Bay of Islands

3 day weather forecast.

Our day sailing catamaran “Carino NZ”

She has been purposely designed to take our guests cruising in the bay of islands..

Name:                  Carino NZ

Design:                 Morgan/Holroyd

Length:                  15m (50ft)

Width:                  8m(26ft)

Facilities:             Spacious outdoor decks, Comfortable indoor cabin, Large Bathroom, Licensed Bar, BBq lunch                                      

Our knowledge of the ocean and work with tourists, has allows us to design and create an amazing day sailing yacht. She has large spacious decks and at the front two large trampoline areas that lets you relax and watch the water pass by, as we sail the stunning Bay of Islands

The cabin is large and comfortable to be able to get out of the sun or wind, yet still watch the amazing scenery pass by.

Our Vessel “Carino NZ” is  surveyed by Maritime New Zealand. We are externally audited to ensure systems and operating procedures are of highest standards. There is a documented maintenance program, vessel and all gear is maintained regularly.

Crew undertake regular safety drills and training for your safety.

WILDLIFE CRUISES

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• Skill Builder
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AFFORDABLE BAREBOAT CHARTER. INTERNATIONALLY ACCREDITED LEARN TO SAIL COURSES. LEARN TO SAIL THEN SAIL YOURSELVES. CRUISING IN THE WORLD RENOWNED BAY OF ISLANDS, NZ.   +64 9 402 7143

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Yachting New Zealand (YNZ) and International Yacht Training (IYT) certified. Gain internationally recognised qualifications and practical skills with a boat and an instructor to yourselves, Content tailored to your personal sailing aspirations.

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Choose your boat from our fleet of well-maintained kiwi boats. We have affordable 20’ to 31’ yachts,fun and comfortable for couple getaways, to family and group holidays.

Our flotillas offer a perfect blend of planned events, activities, and the thrill of sailing, making it an ideal stepping stone for our learn-to-sail graduates and a convenient option for those desiring the freedom of a bareboat charter with added security and social camaraderie.

Embark on a sailing adventure aboard your own boat, even if you’ve never sailed before! Our instructors teach you everything you need to know to safely skipper one of our yachts for your own adventure sailing holiday in the beautiful Bay of Islands.

Sail yourself holidays in the Bay of Islands

Sailing in the Bay of Islands is sensational.  Whether you’re a newbie looking to find your sea legs or an old hand who already knows the ropes Great Escape has a sailing holiday for you.  We have a fleet of affordable kiwi yachts and a crew of very experienced sailing instructors.

Explore our secluded bays and sheltered waters as you sail yourself through the world renown cruising grounds of the Bay of Islands.

If you want some instruction before heading out on your own check out our Sailing School Adventure Holidays to see what works best for you.

Depending on the holiday selected and your experience you can gain international sailing qualifications .

If you have a sound knowledge of sailing and boat handling, you’ll be ready to charter one of our well-maintained affordable kiwi yachts.

With over one hundred islands, a handful of historic towns, calm waters, sheltered anchorages, numerous secluded bays, stunning scenery and fresh seafood we have one of the best cruising destinations in the world.

• News & Events

2023/24 Season Highlights

June 4, 2024

Our 2023/24 season was a great success with stupendous sailors, a perfect playground, and wonderful weather. Thank you to everyone that was a part of this.

May 31, 2024

May 3rd to 5th was the seventh annual Great Escape WOW (Women on Water ) Weekend. It was a fabulous weekend

The floating office is in a new location!

November 2, 2023

We’ve moved the Great Escape base, but not very far! We’re now operating from A Pier, Bay of Islands Marina, […]

Tripadvisor Travellers Choice – 5th year in a row!

June 25, 2023

Thank you, sailors, instructors and our extended team. We’ve been awarded Tripadvisor Travellers Choice (again!).  This is the fifth year […]

More News & Events

Sailing Tips

Mainsail Trim

June 5, 2024

Triming the mainsail effectively will reduce heel, minimise weather helm and decrease leeway.  The result is more efficient and comfortable sailing, especially when sailing upwind.  Get to know the main sail controls on your boat and experiment to see how to sail your boat effectively.  

Thinking of a European Charter? You might need an ICC

February 12, 2024

If you are thinking of chartering in Europe, you will probably need to hold the ICC endorsement, plus have a qualification, such as the IYT Bareboat Skipper certificate. To obtain an ICC from Great Escape Sailing you will need to complete our Advanced Sail Training.

Communication between helm and crew when anchoring

August 20, 2023

Embark on a voyage of anchor signaling mastery. Silence becomes the language of skillful coordination as you navigate anchoring maneuvers like a pro. Explore the expert cues that ensure seamless maritime experiences.

Beginner’s Guide to Sailing Terminology

August 7, 2023

Get to grips with basic sailing lingo so that you can enjoy your sailing, increase safelty aboard and confidently join any crew.

More Sailing Tips

Ultimate Cruising Holiday

New Zealand's bird life, and excellent snapper fishing off the rocks. Julie and Bill are very welcoming, helpful and knowledgeable. We chartered 'Carousel', the… Read More

Rozz and Ian

This trip and course was amazing - I honestly couldn't recommend it enough. I bought it for my GF for a bday pressie as she's sailed before. Personally, I didn't have a clue what to expect and we had the best time! Martin was our instructor, he was good fun, incredibly… Read More

Rob & Lauren

A-MAZ-ZING!!!!!!!

OMG!!! Do this 'Great Escape' sailing experience - the best break I possibly have ever had! The 3 days tuition seemed intense initially but it all came together nicely and set us up for our own 5 day charter in the beautiful Bay of Islands. The fresh air, adventure, new sailing… Read More

ARRON PERRIAM

Greatescape

The 6 day sail yourself course with greatescape was absolutely fantastic. The instructor schooled us for the first three days emparting their broad knowledge on sailing to make sure we were safe on our solo journey. We had great laughs! Admin and support were also awesome, a… Read More

Russell Elliott

Excellent 5 night charter on a Raven 31

We thoroughly enjoyed our charter with Great Escapes. Communications from our initial enquiry to the end - were handled perfectly. The handover from Bill and Julie was very professional. The boat itself had clearly had a lot of money lavished on it: new fully battened main, new… Read More

Malcolm Smith

What a great way to learn to sail...

We did the 6 day learn to sail then sail yourself holiday with Great Escape sailing school. Had a lovely instructor and at the end of the 3 day learn to sail part we had the 3 day sail yourself holiday. We were blessed with the weather being perfect for all but one day and had a… Read More

• Sailing tips
• Terms and Conditions for Bareboat Charter
• Terms and Conditions for Sailing Adventures
• Fun Flotillas

/// Floating Office , A Pier, Bay of Islands Marina, Baffin Street, Opua, Bay of Islands

PO Box 461, Paihia 0247, New Zealand

She's a Lady Sailing Adventures

Join us for a sailing adventure in the beautiful Bay of Islands with a small personalised group. Our main goal is for everyone to experience a day they’ll never forget.

You don’t have to be a sailor to join us but you’re more than welcome to take the wheel and help out. We can instruct and show you the ropes or you can just sit back, relax and enjoy the day.

See the video

Adventure Awaits

Let's go sailing!

Private Charters and Sunset Tours also available.  Enquire here   for more information and prices.

About Your Day

• Sail in the beautiful Bay of Islands
• Help helm and learn the ropes
• Fishing while under sail
• Island stop with heaps of time ashore
• Healthy fresh lunch on the beach
• Snorkelling and swimming
• Paddle our ‘see through bottom’ kayaks
• Explore and check out the views
• Learn a little history about the Bay
• Relax and watch the world go by

Pickup in Paihia 10.00 am Returning between 4.00 pm – 4.30 pm Includes all activities, sailing of the vessel, and a healthy lunch

5 stars are not enough!

– Hemmingway

She’s a great day out!

– Rob

I was expecting a tree I had a forest

– Virgile

Another highlight of our stay at the Bay of Islands

– Gavin

• Day or Overnight Sailing from Russell, Bay of Islands, New Zealand
• 0800 334 662

Come sailing in the Bay of Islands onboard Vigilant Yacht Charters

Contact us for your very own shared, private or overnight charter today, hire a yacht in the bay of islands.

Make your dreams come true with a yacht hire in the Bay of Islands, an unparalleled sailing playground. Step aboard our magnificent 42ft classic cutter rig yacht and immerse yourself in this enchanting destination. Crafted from native New Zealand timber, the Vigilant offers a sailing experience that combines comfort and elegance.

Once you set foot on our yacht, you’ll instantly feel at ease. Relax and indulge in the breathtaking views that the Bay of Islands has in store for you. If you’re up for it, try your hand at hoisting the sails and taking control of the helm. Our yacht hire packages not only include incredible sailing adventures but also ample island time. You’ll have access to kayaks, snorkeling gear, and a fresh homegrown lunch onboard the yacht. Your dedicated skipper Nat, will ensure that your yacht hire experience exceeds all your expectations.  

Shared Day Charter

Come sailing with us, small groups big adventures. Up to 10 people, the trip is from 10am to 330pm.

Private Day Charter

Great for occasions, parties or simply privacy. Our private charters take up to 10 people, the trip is from 10am to 330pm.

Afternoon Charter

Come sailing at the nicest time of day. A private charter with up to 10 people, the trip is from 4pm to 7pm.

Overnight Charter

Stay the night onboard or camp on an island. Up to 4 people, the trip is from 10am to 9am.

Support Local

Built in Whangarei 35 years ago, Vigilant was one of the first charter boats in the Bay of Islands. She is currently owned by a young local couple, Nik and Nat. They look forward to taking you out on your yacht hire in the Bay of Islands.

See reviews Enquire now

Email: [email protected]

Bay of Islands - Bareboat Charter

• Sailing Adventures

Tour Overview

Day by Day Itinerary

"The scene which unfolded was indeed a most surprising place. It was full of an innumerable quantity of islands forming as many harbours which must be as smooth as mill ponds as they landlock one another numberless times." Sir Joseph Banks on Captain James Cook's first expedition to New Zealand in 1769....  and nothing has changed

** We have a decent selection of vessels on our books, please feel free to contact us for rates.

Visited Locations

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Other Tours You Might Like....

Abel Tasman National Park Sailing Adventure

Relax… everything is organized. Step on board and immerse yourself fully into the wonder that is the Abel Tasman National Park. Home is a large comfortable catamaran and your meals, activities and transport are all catered for – every night you stay in another magic - We call this a holiday within a holiday.

Pricing terms

The price is based on current exchange rates but is only an approximation. Please contact us for a final price

Book your special day!!!

Escape into new zealand’s sailing paradise, sail away with us – small groups, beautiful anchorages, full service boat charters, phantom charters – sailing charters in the bay of islands, shared and private boat charters available.

• A sailing tour of the Bay of Islands 
• Beautiful beaches
• Great walks
• Swimming and snorkelling

We’ll sail you to the beautiful beaches in the Bay of Islands – quiet, remote places that will truly take your breath away – a sailing trip you won’t forget       –  sheltered anchorages in beautiful bays with crystal clear water, swimming, snorkelling and fascinating history…..and great hikes!     

Phantom safe, comfortable, performance!

Our well known sailing charters in the Bay of Islands shows the quality of our yacht. Phantom is an ex-racing yacht, which has been our liveaboard sailing/cruising boat for many years . 

 Comfortable and high-performing, guaranteeing an exciting (and very safe!) daysailing charter in the bay.

Phantom was built by C&C Yachts in 1972, and was our live-aboard home for 18 years. Experience the beauty, pedigree and safety of this heavy displacement performance sailing yacht.

Sailing in the Bay of Islands what to expect with us

Create lasting memories   –   local knowledge.

Phantom Charters,  one of the Bay of Island’s most experienced day sailing tour providers.

Adventures tailored to suit interests and abilities. Islands of natural and rugged beauty…..a unique experience, and enjoy what Lonely Planet has called ‘the best lunch in the bay’.

Take the helm, or just relax on deck – come, discover the Bay of Islands with us!

Bareboat Sailing Adventures in the stunning Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Home aboard rates cruising area reviews terms gallery links contact us.

Bay of Islands Yacht Charters Ltd ~ New Zealand

Bareboat charter sailing vessel "Sensation" is a spacious and well set up Farr 1020 34ft sailing yacht. The boat was designed and built in New Zealand and is set up for cruising comfort and performance. 

Sensation is currently the only boat that we have for bareboat (private - sail yourself) charter in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand so you can expect personal attention when you book your bareboat sailing charter with us. The yacht is under current New Zealand MSA Certification. 

Well suited to two couples or a family (Max 4 Adults) our sail boat has two double and two single berths (one with a high lee cloth).  There is one separate cabin.  Sensation has a well equipped galley with fridge, freezer, oven and complimentary pantry items.  There is a hot water shower off the stern of the yacht.

To charter (hire) our yacht well-rounded sailing experience and familiarity with sailboats and/or satisfactory completion of recognized boating courses is helpful.  Practical knowledge and experience in piloting and anchoring procedures are essential.  

  We are proudly 100% New Zealand Owned and Operated

   © copyright bay of islands yacht charters ltd - site map new zealand website builder - website world.

Bareboat Charters

Skippered charters.

Welcome aboard Cruczar, come sailing the beautiful Hauraki Gulf with us. I’m Warren Brown, owner of Cruczar (pronounced Cruiser). I’m a keen sailor and fisherman who takes great delight in showing off the many islands of the Hauraki Gulf right on Auckland’s doorstep. Cruczar was launched in December 2008 and is based in Auckland.

We will go where the wind takes us, usually exploring Rangitoto, Tiritiri Matangi , Kawau Island and of course Waiheke. With many bush walks, see New Zealand’s regenerative flora and fauna and swim on the many white sandy beaches. For the more adventurous, a trip to Great Barrier Island can be part of your trip where there is some great fishing and picturesque evenings beside the fire in Smokehouse Bay. And if you are lucky, you might even get the chance to see some whales and dolphins out at Great Barrier.

Cruczar is a great boat for up to two families to share. All berths are adult size and even when full there is plenty of room on this boat. This is an experience that you will remember for many years to come, a great thing to do with the family and a great education for future generations.

For the more experienced sailor Cruczar is available as a Bareboat Charter. It is available for hire to people with a reasonable amount of sailing experience. A resume of your sailing experience is required upon booking a charter.

Exploring the Hauraki Gulf

Auckland is one of the few cities where you can jump on a boat and reach an island within 30 minutes.  The many islands in close proximity make it perfect for exploring by boat.

Add to your sailing experience by jumping off the boat and surfing the many beaches, visiting the beautiful wineries and eateries of Waiheke, whale watching, bird watching at Tiritiri Matangi, hiking up Rangitoto to take in 360-degree views of Auckland or doing a spot of fishing, the Hauraki Gulf has it all.

So, gather your family or friends and explore the Hauraki Gulf on our sailing boat Cruczar, there is so much to see and do!

To find out more about the Hauraki Gulf and what is has to offer, please click here .

With bareboat we supply LPG and fuel for the tender. The boat sleeps 8 people 2 queen and 4 adult singles. The boat has a inside shower, electric toilet and a cockpit shower.  The galley has a 3 burner hob oven and grill and a 75 litre fridge and a 92 litre freezer. The boat is very comfortable and roomy and is very good for 2 families or 4 couples to share.

The skippered charters are for people with little or no sailing experience who are keen to experience the beautiful Hauraki Gulf . You can try snorkelling, swimming and fishing as well as supervised steering of the boat. This is a memorable experience you will have for years to come. The skipper/owner Warren, a keen fisherman and sailor has spent years cruising the gulf and knows the area well. I encourage everyone to come and share this magical experience with me.

Warren is also a NauticEd qualified Level V Captain Rank Instructor/Assessor

All prices exclude GST

Inclusions for Bareboat

• Gas Barbecue
• Rigid inflatable dinghy with outboard and fuel
• Galley equipment, dishwashing liquid, dish sponges, cleaning products, rubbish bags

Extras for Bareboat

• Refundable Bond:   NZ$5,000 deposited prior to charter and refundable unless boat is damaged.
• Optional Bond Waiver Insurance:   NZ$25.00 plus gst per day.  Reduces bond to NZ$2,000.
• Vessel Training Day Available:   If requested or required. $NZ$120.00 + GST per person (min 4 persons)
• Linen: the boat is equipped with duvets and pillows. Linen can be supplied upon request at $30pp and the beds can be made up for a further charge of $30pp. BYO Linen…Please bring your own sheets, pillowcases (2 pp), towels, bath mats and tea towels.  Please ensure a top sheet is used at all times to protect the duvet and for hygiene reasons. BYO Sleeping Bags…if you bring sleeping bags please also bring 2 pillowcases pp and a bottom sheet.

PLEASE NOTE: Payment Terms are according to the Terms and Conditions which are sent out on the Enquiry Reply

About the Boat

Tennant Sienna 38ft 11.6m Sailing Catamaran

Cruczar (pronounced Cruiser) was launched in December 2008 and is based in Auckland. A pleasure to sail, it is very easy to visit some of the many beautiful islands in the Hauraki Gulf, cruise up to the Bay of Islands, or visit the Coromandel region.

All berths are adult size and even when full there is plenty of room on this boat. Cruczar will easily accommodate two families.

Cruczar is available as a Bareboat Charter only to people with a reasonable amount of sailing experience. A resume of your sailing experience is required upon booking a charter.

When you have decided on dates, please fill in the Contact Form or

phone Warren on +64 27 975 1731 or email [email protected] for more information.

For Skippered Charters or Sailing Training, please contact:

Boat Owner –  Warren

+64 27 975 1731

Bay of Islands Yacht Club

Through water and community comes our strength. sportsmanship and open communication, on and off the water. a welcoming environment, encouraging participation and belonging. respecting our people, place, history. sharing knowledge to build capacity..

Our History

Bay News: Coastal Classic returns, Bay of Islands Walking Weekend

Competitors in the PIC Coastal Classic 2023 jostled for position at the start in off Devonport wharf in Auckland. Photo / LiveSailDie

Coastal Classic returns

For the past 42 years the fleet of the Coastal Classic yacht race has left Auckland and headed north to arrive at Russell wharf somewhere between nine or so hours later or as much as a day after the start.

Last year conditions were tricky and nearly half the fleet didn’t finish. Line honours went to Wired, the Tp52 yacht skippered by Rob Bassett. A close second, by eight minutes, was the catamaran of Okiato’s Erle Williams.

The original concept for the race came from Roger Dilley from the then Auckland Multihull Sailing Association and was loosely based on the speed record attempts by power boats dating back to the 1920s over the same course.

Twelve crews took up the challenge in 1982 and Roger coined the name “Coastal Classic”. Krisis, skippered by Duncan (Cookie) Stuart was the first boat into Russell and his record of 18 hours was not broken for four years.

In 1984 three all-women crews took part including a team aboard a 1910 cutter called Maeva. The first boat in, sailed exclusively by a female crew, was awarded the Te Hoe o Wairaka trophy.

Carved by Te Hau Tutua, it is named after Wairaka, daughter of the chief of the Mataatua canoe who beached the canoe after it had accidentally been set adrift with only one woman on board.

Over the years the race has attracted as many as 200 starters in 1995 to around 164 in 2023, but it is, nonetheless, one of the biggest yachting events of its type in the world.

This year several entrants are making a mad dash from Barcelona where they are attending the America’s Cup event to get back to Auckland in time to start the Coastal Classic. Whether they make it in time is still to be determined, given the cancellations to date in Spain because of weather.

Port Whangārei Marine Centre has joined the PIC as a key sponsor. The event takes place on Friday, October 25.

Russell’s grand old lodge

Arcadia Lodge is a boutique accommodation establishment that sits high on the hill overlooking Matauwhi Bay in Russell/Kororāreka.

To quote a Jeremiah proverb the property exists (in which to) “refresh the weary and satisfy the faint” and this year it celebrates 100 years of doing just that. There are, however, two schools of thought.

One is that it became Arcadia Lodge as early as 1924 (hence the 100-year celebration) but others suggest it didn’t become an accommodation lodge until 1930. Documentation to prove either has been lost but there is no doubt it is one of Russell’s iconic and well-established small hotels.

The lodge structure is original. It was built in 1902 by Rev Robert Goodine Boler for his wife and six children. It was the third house he built and the current owners, Peter Gillan and Greg Hoover, understand that much of the wood used in the construction was reclaimed and barged up north from Wellington.

It has solid kauri floors throughout and was originally built on a whale bone vertebrae, one of which sits in Arcadia’s lounge and the other is held by Russell Museum.

Across the years Arcadia has been everything from a boarding house, a backpackers and a youth centre for teenagers to go after school. At one point it was registered by Far North Council to hold 24 people.

Peter Gillan says it’s a “stay with personality” that has its own character with uneven floors and is sometimes classed as “quirky”.

“But” says Gillan, “we are only as good as the next guest walking through the door.”

Sitting beside Arcadia Lodge is Arcadia Cottage which is classified as a “renovated shed” but much is not known about the cottage since the records were lost in a council fire in Whangārei years ago.

Today it is a fully self-contained cottage that has gone through many renovations and yet it holds the greatest occupancy rate for the Arcadia business as a whole.

Pop-ups and consultation

For 10 days from April to May this year the Bay of Islands-Whangaroa Community Board conducted a series of “pop-up” consultations in Russell to discuss speed limits on roads in the region and the potential future of The Strand, the Russell waterfront road, among other more aesthetic subjects.

There were 446 ideas to improve The Strand and waterfront and 175 ideas for small changes. There were 724 “likes” on Facebook and 126 comments.

Subsequently the Far North District Council (FNDC) called for feedback on its speed management plan which proposes to lower the speed around schools, marae and downtown in urban and rural areas within the Russell-Kororāreka catchment area.

The catchment area includes the communities of Russell, Ōkiato, Rāwhiti and Kāretu. Council declared it wants to set speed limits “that better acknowledge local conditions and surrounding environment.”

One road under discussion is the main road from Russell to the car ferry on-ramp at Ōkiato. It starts as Russell-Whakapara Road and merges into Aucks Rd with a current open speed limit of 100km/h. This speed limit reduces to 70km/h within 500m of the ferry on-ramp in Ōkiato.

Residents suggest where it is currently the open speed limit, that speeds be reduced to 80km/h, or even 60km/h, and 50km/h through Ōkiato.

There are two different authorities governing these two main roads. The Whangārei District Council (WDC) has authority over Russell-Whakapara Rd while the FNDC governs Aucks Rd. After more than a decade of asking for speeds to be reduced on both roads, neither hasn’t been actioned.

New speed limits in Paihia became mandatory in June. Some of the roads with reduced limits came under the authority of FNDC while the main waterfront road, Marsden Rd, falls under the jurisdiction of NZ Transport Authority (NZTA) or Waka Kotahi since it’s a state highway.

The deadline for FNDC to receive feedback submissions on the speed management plan is 5pm on Monday, September 30.

Bay of Islands Walking Weekend

In mid-October the well-established Bay of Islands Walking Weekend kicks off four days of rambling, hiking, strolling and even imbibing. Many of the walks are labelled “walk to wine” and there are several opportunities to do just that.

There are a variety of walks to choose from which cater for every level of fitness, from 2km to 21km. The weekend is now in its eleventh year and every year the aim is to have a few new walks.

Last year, for instance, the PhatHouse Brewery River walk was established along the Waitangi River, through native bush to end up at Haruru Falls and the brewery for a behind-the-scenes tour and the chance to savour beer straight from the tank.

Also last year Barefoot Sailing Adventures was introduced as a “walk”. It is a sail on a catamaran to Moturua Island to beaches that date back to the Polynesian voyages of 1320. On offer is a walk from the beach through the bush and back to the beach.

New this year is a walk with a finish at the well-known Eagles Nest, an exclusive luxury lodged that has panoramic vistas across the Bay of Islands. It’s a “bubble and squeak” walk with a glass or two of champers at the end.

The Rakaumangman walk to Cape Brett lighthouse is an overnight walk for the fit. For the less fit there is the Club “humour in the heart of Russell” walk or the Pahia lookout walk with lunch afterwards at Charlotte’s Kitchen on the wharf.

Then there’s the Twin Coast Cycle Trail bike-and-walk option or the Island Hop, to Urupukapuka and Motuarohia Islands. Also available is the Kotikoti Walk which is over private land.

Northland Ferries offer ferry tickets for the walks for those who need to take the commercial boats. Bay of Islands Walking Weekend is on October 10, 11, 12 and 13.

www.bayofislandswalkingweekend.co.nz

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Check Out These Nautical-Inspired Condos + Yacht Club In Miami

Among the high-rise condos emerging in Miami, a Bay Harbor Islands building opening in 2025 is standing out for standing small. At eight stories tall, the Indian Creek Residences & Yacht Club will consist of only nine homes spanning half-floor, full-floor and duplex units. Private balconies of each residence offer picturesque views of the water below, which houses six yacht slips.

“The property is inspired by the nautical lines and feminine curves of the yachts and sailboats surrounding the waterway,” says Kobi Karp, the project’s architect, who embraced a midcentury modern style for the building’s curves. Ennea Garden Design, too, was influenced by the environs for the structure’s lush rooftop. “To withstand challenging weather conditions, we’ve chosen all native tree species with a touch of coconut palms,” landscape designer Enzo Enea says.

Naturally, the water also drove Zarifi Design’s decisions for the interiors, which feature Gaggenau appliances, Taj Mahal quartzite countertops and Fantini fixtures. “We designed the homes to complement the views, with open living spaces, soaking tubs and neutral materials that play up the surrounding nature,” designer Linda Zarifi shares.

RENDERINGS: WILLIAMS NEW YORK

Music | Review: We did not see this coming at Train,…

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Music | map: davis fire warning zone grows as dangerous winds are expected, music | review: we did not see this coming at train, reo speedwagon show, co-headliners work surprisingly well together at shoreline.

REO Speedwagon seemed better off touring with a fellow ’70s/’80s classic rock act like Styx, Chicago or the Doobie Brothers again. Train should probably stay on a more modern track and hit the road with a contemporary like Maroon 5.

And, really, is there an audience who wants to hear “Keep on Loving You” and “Hey, Soul Sister” equally?

Fortunately, the two co-headliners — separated by peaks in popularity by nearly 30 years — didn’t end up performing on paper, but rather on stage at Shoreline Amphitheatre at Mountain View on Saturday night. The result was a diversely appealing evening of music by two bands that don’t share much in common, other than the fact that they are both very entertaining live acts.

And it’s the latter that mattered most on this night.

The nearly 4½-hour concert began in fun fashion with opening act Yacht Rock Revue, the popular cover band that celebrates the groovy soft-rock tunes that dominated a.m. radio back in the ’70s and ’80s. The setlist was filled with such genre classics as Rupert Holmes’ “Escape (The Piña Colada Song)” — which is perhaps the definitive yacht rock staple — and Looking Glass’ “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl).” My only quibble is that the set closed with Boston’s “More Than a Feeling,” which doesn’t really belong in the genre.

Next up was REO Speedwagon, which prefaced its set with an audio/video segment that reflected on the year of 1981. That was the year when such films as “Stripes” and “Superman II” (aka, the best of all Superman movies) ruled the box office, fans were reminded during the segment. It was also when REO had the No. 1 selling album of the entire year with “Hi Infidelity.”

There were certainly a lot of people in attendance who clearly remember 1981 and (like this critic) still own an original vinyl of copy of “Hi Infidelity” purchased back in the day. Those were the people who could be heard shouting along to the lyrics as vocalist Kevin Cronin and company opened their winning 75-minute set with a rowdy “Don’t Let Him Go,” the first of five numbers drawn from “Hi Infidelity” on this night.

“I figured out why the Train guys were so excited to tour with REO Speedwagon,” Cronin joked. “I think they figured if they toured with us we’d bring in a slightly younger audience.”

The group  — which appears to be inching closer to its long-overdue Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction with each passing year — sounded terrific as it continued through the anthems “Take It on the Run” (another “Hi Infidelity” winner) and “Keep Pushin’” (from 1976’s “R.E.O.”) early in the 13-song set.

Dave Amato was an absolute beast on the guitar throughout the night, consistently living up to the “Shred Master General” nickname that the band has bestowed on him as he flew through meaty leads on “Can’t Fight This Feeling,” “Ridin’ the Storm Out” and so many others.

Cronin, of course, was his regular energetic self, working the stage and the crowd with determination. The moment that really stuck with me was when he brought “Son of a Poor Man” to a close by screaming out, “Rock ‘n’ roll will keep you young forever.”

And it certainly seems to have worked thus far for Cronin.

“I’m only 72,” he remarked. “But I feel like I’m 22.”

After the band closed the set with a roaring “Roll With the Changes,” Cronin advised the crowd “the party is just getting started.”

“There is a Train on the tracks and it’s coming your way,” he added.

San Francisco’s Train made great use of its own 75-minute set, keeping fans on their feet — singing and dancing along — pretty much from start to finish.

“It’s so good to be back home,” Pat Monahan exclaimed.

The vocalist and his four bandmates — guitarist Taylor Locke, bassist Hector Maldonado, keyboardist Jerry Becker and drummer Matt Musty — came right out of the gates with a towering version of “Calling All Angels” and then continued to build momentum as they moved through such fan favorites as “Get to Me” and “Save Me, San Francisco.”

Monahan is a man who fears no rhyme, boasting a lyrical track record that includes pairing “disco” and “San Francisco” and, most famously, “soul sister” with “Mr. Mister.” While those kind of rhymes have resulted in countless trips to the bank for Monahan over the years, they can also sound a bit trite and sophomoric during heavy repetition on pop radio.

Yet, Monahan and company were consistently able to lift their material to higher levels on the concert stage, drawing up versions of, in particular, “50 Ways to Say Goodbye” and “Drive By” that easily topped what’s heard on record.

They also pulled out all the stops at Shoreline, such as bringing Cronin back onstage for a bit of the Steve Miller Band’s “The Joker” that was tacked on to the end of “Meet Virginia,” and Monahan handing the microphone over to son Rock for a cover of Led Zeppelin’s “Over the Hills and Far Away” while dear ol’ dad moved over to the drum kit.

(Side note: This is a band that has always had a surprising affinity for Led Zep, having once released a full live album dubbed “Train Does Led Zeppelin II” — which did indeed find Monahan’s group covering the heavy metal titans’ second record in its entirety.)

The best moment came as Train approached the finish line and invited Yacht Rock Revue back to the stage. The combined forces — which also included the return of Rock Monahan — then opened the Eagles’ songbook and unleashed a powerful cover of “Hotel California,” complete with the awe-inspiring multi-guitar outro, which seemed to leave every single person in the building buzzing with excitement.

Train setlist:

1. “Calling All Angels”2. “If It’s Love”3. “Get to Me”4. “Save Me, San Francisco”5. “Meet Virginia”6. “Over the Hills and Far Away”7. “Play That Song”8. “Angel in Blue Jeans”9. “Long Yellow Dress”10. “50 Ways to Say Goodbye”11. “Marry Me”12. “Bruises”13. “Hey, Soul Sister”14. “Drive By”15. “Hotel California”16. “Drops of Jupiter”

REO Speedwagon setlist:

1. “Don’t Let Him Go”2. “Take It on the Run”3. “Keep Pushin’”4. “Live Every Moment”5. “Tough Guys”6. “I Wish You Were There”7. “Music Man”8. “Can’t Fight This Feeling”9. “Son of a Poor Man”10. “Time for Me to Fly”11. “Ridin’ the Storm Out”12. “Keep On Loving You”13. “Roll With the Changes”

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