NEW ZEALAND
New Zealand's best.
New Zealand's 15 most popular sailing tours, in one place. What each one is actually like, who runs it, and what you will pay.
Wind-powered sailing on Lake Taupō to Māori Rock Carvings, with guided stories, a long swim break, blankets, and an included drink.
“Fantastic! Friendly guides, gorgeous boat, amazing location, we had a great time!”
Cruise Milford Sound in 105 minutes on Pure Milford’s modern catamaran. Big windows, outdoor decks, live narration, and up-close waterfalls.
“If no one else tells you - I will. If you’re coming to Milford because you’ve seen those videos on social media of all the crazy waterfalls YOU HAVE TO DO THIS EXPERIENCE THE DAY AFTER A HEAVY RAINFALL OR WHILE ITS ACTIVELY RAINING TO ACHIEVE THOSE EXACT VIEWS. No, I’m not kidding- the captain…”
Sail past Auckland’s skyline on a 50-foot yacht with live commentary and a 3-course dinner. Small group, jackets provided.
“The captains and sailors were really cool. As a sailor myself I loved just hanging out. They kept us safe and entertained”
Sail a real America’s Cup yacht in Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour, 2 hours of hands-on helm and grinders with a pro crew.
“The trio was great, especially when the wind got up!”
Sail the Bay of Islands on the R. Tucker Thompson with scones, BBQ lunch, and optional Paihia–Russell ferry tickets.
“Amazing experience! Island hoping, rope swing off the boat into the ocean, an island hike to an amazing view of all of the Bay of Islands, and an amazing crew. Parking in town at “Williams Road Public Car Park” and a 15 min ferry from Paihia to Russell.”
A 2.5-hour Waitemata Harbour sailing dinner in Auckland on a 50ft yacht with a 3-course menu from The Lula Inn.
“A nice and windy evening, so lots of great sailing. Food was tasty.”
Cruise Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour on a 50-foot yacht with live commentary, warm drinks, and the chance to steer near the Bridge and Sky Tower.
“Skipper and mate were friendly and wanted to make sure we enjoyed our voyage.”
6-hour island-hopping catamaran in the Bay of Islands with snorkelling, paddleboarding, and a wildlife sanctuary stop with lunch included.
“We particularly enjoyed the casual chatting on board, snorkeling and the island walk. We were very well catered for- we loved every minute…”
Sail a true America’s Cup racing-class yacht on Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour. Take the helm or help with sails and skyline views.
“Absolutely amazing and memorable experience. The crew was awesome and so personable. I highly recommend this to anyone coming to Auckland. The views are beautiful”
Sail Abel Tasman from Kaiteriteri to Anchorage Bay, then hike back to Marahau on a self-guided coastal track. Full-day $80.
“Thoroughly enjoyed the trip. Catamaran was great, really relaxed. And the walk back was spectacular!”
Luxury catamaran sailing on Lake Taupo to Māori rock carvings, with a swim stop and an all-weather bar aboard Tiua.
“We had such a great time aboard this boat! The guides were great and it was a nice relaxing trip around lake Taupō. Highly recommend this activity whilst you’re there as it is really great value for money and good for all ages.”
Deluxe yacht sailing from Russell with snorkeling gear, kayaks, island time, and a catered lunch in the Bay of Islands.
“Fantastic cruise where you really sail. Not only motor. Anker in nice bay with a lagoon for snorkeling, swimming or kayaking”
Sail past Cathedral Cove on a comfy Whitianga catamaran, with optional swim/snorkel and included snacks and drinks in Mercury Bay.
“Wow, wow, wow! The catamaran is called ‘No Worries!’ The crew were fantastic. The cruise past Cathedral Cove was stunning. Took sooooo many photos. Drinks on the way out, fresh cut fruit on the way back. Snorkelling by caves at the nearby island. What a beautiful way to spend an afternoon!”
Sail the Bay of Islands on Phantom with a 10-person cap, snorkeling gear, a shore hike for views, and a home-made lunch from Russell.
“Highlight of our trip! Beautiful weather, great meal and made each guest feel like a personal guest. A must do!”
Sail from Paihia to a wildlife sanctuary island for 2 hours of snorkel and SUP plus hiking, lunch, and drinks on a catamaran.
“Excellent trip into the Bay of Islands. The were excellent, informative, fun, and genuinely cared about the places we visited and their guests. Would 100% recommend as a must do while in the area!”
