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.
“Lovely sailing trip, amazing carvings and nice clear water for a swim. Good information provided.”
Cruise Milford Sound in 105 minutes on Pure Milford’s modern catamaran. Big windows, outdoor decks, live narration, and up-close waterfalls.
“It was great. The boat did not feel overcrowded. The weather was rainy, which made it better for waterfall observations! We spent the whole time on the deck. Highly recommend.”
Sail past Auckland’s skyline on a 50-foot yacht with live commentary and a 3-course dinner. Small group, jackets provided.
“What a wonderful and relaxing evening out sailing the harbour of Auckland! We went out with Captain Noel, Sophie, and Finn -- all three very knowledgeable, great senses of humour and full of wonderful tales. We pre-ordered our meals with Read more”
Sail a real America’s Cup yacht in Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour, 2 hours of hands-on helm and grinders with a pro crew.
“An exciting sailing trip. Thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I would definitely recommend it. The crew were great. The hands on experience was amazing. It’s definitely not for the faint hearted.”
Sail the Bay of Islands on the R. Tucker Thompson with scones, BBQ lunch, and optional Paihia–Russell ferry tickets.
“Other than not having quite enough wind, we had a perfect sailing day! It was warm and overcast, so no sunburns. The food was excellent. I have special dietary requirements and they met them perfectly for me. I got to steer the ship for a wRead more”
A 2.5-hour Waitemata Harbour sailing dinner in Auckland on a 50ft yacht with a 3-course menu from The Lula Inn.
“This activity was THE BEST EVER. The weather was excellent; the food was scrumptious; the crew of the boat were professional in every sense, they kept us safe, entertained, and very well fed. The videos and photos I managed to amass during this evening activity look more like an epic nature TV documentary than just…”
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.
“Sophie and Brad were wonderful and worked very well together Defiance is a beautiful lady and just right for a gentle cruise in the harbour Always like more time on the water but that’s not possible Just superb”
6-hour island-hopping catamaran in the Bay of Islands with snorkelling, paddleboarding, and a wildlife sanctuary stop with lunch included.
“Our ship was diverted because of an incoming weather system, and the Bay of Islands stop was cancelled. We had no way to reach the meeting point for this excursion. The operator chose not to refund the booking even though the port wRead more”
Sail a true America’s Cup racing-class yacht on Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour. Take the helm or help with sails and skyline views.
“My husband and I had an unforgettable experience on this excursion! Certainly a highlight of our 2-week adventure in NZ. The crew was attentive and made our experience amazing. Highly recommend to anyone wanting to see Auckland from the water. The best view and hands on experience.”
Sail Abel Tasman from Kaiteriteri to Anchorage Bay, then hike back to Marahau on a self-guided coastal track. Full-day $80.
“A fantastic day on the water. A lot of time to take in the sights along the way.”
Luxury catamaran sailing on Lake Taupo to Māori rock carvings, with a swim stop and an all-weather bar aboard Tiua.
“Super chilled trip. Great value for money. Would highly recommend”
Deluxe yacht sailing from Russell with snorkeling gear, kayaks, island time, and a catered lunch in the Bay of Islands.
“Unfortunately our cruise ship notified us within the 24 hours that they weren’t able to dock at Bay of Islands. The tour provider kept the entire amount. It was their right under the Viator agreement. However, this happened at another port and the tour provider gave back a portion of the cost—that is providing excellent…”
Sail past Cathedral Cove on a comfy Whitianga catamaran, with optional swim/snorkel and included snacks and drinks in Mercury Bay.
“A great way to see the area from the water. Down to earth, friendly crew. A great experience.”
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.
“We had the best experience on the Phantom. We couldn’t have been made to feel both special and at home. It was one of the best trips I’ve had :) - thanks so much guys!”
Sail from Paihia to a wildlife sanctuary island for 2 hours of snorkel and SUP plus hiking, lunch, and drinks on a catamaran.
“Luke and Carmen were so fun and made the day great! The bean bag chairs were perfectly comfy for the gorgeous ride! The only thing I would change was the hot drinks were served in the morning when it was hot and sunny out and the cold drinks were served when it was a little…”
