A catamaran day in the Bay feels different. It’s exclusive, crewed, and built around a sheltered anchor stop where you can actually do things instead of just sit and pose. With Brad and Monique running the show, you get that calm, well-run vibe from booking to return to shore.

Two things I really like: you have the private charter for your group (up to 10), and the day isn’t all drifting. You’ll get structured water time with stand-up paddle boarding and snorkelling gear, plus an island walk option during the island break.

One thing to consider: this experience is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t good, you’ll either reschedule or get a full refund, so it helps to keep your other plans flexible.

Key highlights to know before you go

• Private use of a crewed catamaran for up to 10 people, so you’re not sharing the boat experience
• 2 hours at anchor at a remote island-only-by-boat spot, with options to paddle, snorkel, or walk
• Stand-up paddle boards and snorkelling equipment included, plus a restroom on board
• Lunch is included as a packed meal, with an upgrade option to a plated/buffet-style menu
• BYO alcohol policy, since the crew doesn’t sell drinks on board

A crewed private catamaran day: what it really feels like

This isn’t a big sightseeing cruise where you’re one person in a crowd. It’s a private sailing charter where your group gets time on a crewed catamaran, for roughly 6 hours, with departure around 9:30am (or another time you choose). That shift matters. You spend less energy coordinating and more energy enjoying the water.

Brad and Monique are part of why this works so smoothly. Based on their approach, they’re focused on keeping the day relaxed but organized. And they’re the kind of hosts who understand you might want conversation, or you might want quiet time. Either way, you’re not fighting for attention or space.

You also get the practical side covered. There’s a restroom on board, and you’re not going to show up wondering how you’ll handle lunch or gear. It’s the kind of day that’s easy to plan for, even if you’re traveling with a mixed group.

Choosing Paihia or Russell and timing it to your style

The charter runs from the Bay of Islands area, with departures from Paihia or Russell Wharf. The default start time is 9:30am, but you can often pick a different departure time if you want the day to match your lodging schedule.

That flexibility is useful. If you’re staying in Paihia, a morning start usually gives you clear, calm vibes before the day gets busy. If you’re starting from Russell, you can line it up with other Bay of Islands plans. Either way, your day is structured: sail out, anchor for activities, then sail back.

One small detail that helps planning: you’ll receive a mobile ticket, so you’re not dealing with printed paperwork on the day. Also, the meeting point is near public transportation, which is handy if you don’t want to lock yourself into a car plan.

The first sail out: scenic cruising without the rush

After you head out from the wharf, the day settles into sailing mode. The schedule is built around a 2-hour sail out into the Bay of Islands, so you’re not immediately sprinting into activities. This is when the catamaran experience actually earns its keep.

You’ll be making your way along the coastline as you head out to the anchoring area. For me, this part is about breathing room. Even if you’re the kind of traveler who loves tours, you’ll appreciate the slower start. It’s a good time to set expectations for the rest of the day: what you want to do at anchor, how long you want lunch to feel like a break, and how much you want to move around on the water.

The anchor stop at a remote island: paddle, snorkel, walk

The highlight is the anchored island break. You’ll anchor at a sheltered bay at a remote island that’s accessible by boat only. That “boat-only” access is exactly what makes this feel like you got off the beaten track without doing anything complicated.

You’ll have about 2 hours on the island excursion, and it’s set up with real activity choices. The included options are:

• stand-up paddle boarding using the provided boards
• snorkelling with the supplied equipment
• an island walk

This setup is great for groups with different energy levels. Want movement? Go for the water activities. Want something slower? Stick with the walk. You’re not forced into one plan.

On at least some charter days, the island-area sightseeing includes coves people recognize from the Bay of Islands, and groups have specifically mentioned time around Honeymoon Bay plus a short bush walk. Even if your exact island feel varies with wind and conditions, the pattern stays the same: you get clear water time and a chance to stretch your legs.

A small practical note: snorkelling and paddle time are weather-and-conditions dependent. If the water is calm, you’ll likely get the most out of it. If not, the crew’s job is to keep you safe and still let you enjoy the day.

Lunch on board: packed meal now, upgraded menu if you want more

Lunch is included, and it’s served as an individual packed lunch. If you’d rather have a more formal meal feel, there’s an upgrade option for a buffet-style plated meal style. If you’re celebrating something, the team can also arrange special touches like cakes and charcuterie boards.

This is one of those value decisions that helps you match the day to your group. If you want simple and good, the included packed lunch does the job. If you want the day to feel more like a milestone outing, the upgrade gives you that extra polish without having to find a restaurant plan mid-trip.

Also, having lunch handled by the charter matters more than it sounds. You’re already spending your day on the water. You don’t want to be thinking about where to eat or how to keep food fresh. Here, it’s part of the flow.

What you can do with your group: private size, easy vibe

The charter is limited to a maximum group size of 10 people. That limit is the sweet spot for a private day. It’s big enough to feel social, but small enough that the crew can keep an eye on everyone and adjust on the fly.

One of the best parts of a private setup is how it handles mixed preferences. In the Bay of Islands, it’s common to see groups that want different amounts of talking, looking, and photo time. This charter is set up so your group doesn’t get shoved into a one-size-fits-all rhythm.

And then there’s the BYO rule. Alcoholic beverages are BYO, and the crew doesn’t sell drinks on board. That’s not bad, it’s just clear. If alcohol is part of your group vibe, you’ll want to plan ahead and bring it with you.

For comfort, you also have basics covered. There’s a restroom on board, which makes the day feel less stressful, especially if you’re out for the full charter window.

Sailing time and the 6-hour pacing that works

The schedule is built to keep energy steady:

• 2 hours sailing out into the Bay
• 2 hours at anchor for island activities
• 2 hours returning back to the wharf

That pacing is important because it keeps the day from feeling like a scramble. You get a real sail period, a meaningful break period at the island, and then a wind-down return. It’s the kind of timing that feels fair to everyone, including kids (within reason), older visitors, and people who just want to enjoy the view without hauling gear around.

You should expect the total time to be around 6 hours, and the activity ends back at the meeting point. Since the return is built into the charter, you’re not left guessing how to get back once the fun part ends.

Price and value: when this charter is worth the splurge

At $2,606.41 per group (up to 10), this is a premium experience. But for the Bay of Islands, the value depends on how you count the day.

Here’s the math logic I use: you’re paying for an exclusive boat day plus crew service plus included gear and lunch. If you were to piecemeal it with a group rental, you’d likely spend close to the same range once you factor in boat time and staffing. With this charter, you get a structured half-day sailing plan, not just “a boat for a few hours.”

The included items also protect your budget:

• stand-up paddle board usage
• snorkelling equipment
• lunch (packed meal)
• restroom on board

And because it’s private, you’re paying for reduced friction. No joining lines, no waiting for shared logistics, no crowded boat feeling. That matters when the weather window is right and you want the day to feel effortless.

If you can fill a group of up to 10, the cost per person becomes much more reasonable. If you’re a smaller group, you still may find it worth it for the privacy and the full crewed experience.

Who should book this Bay of Islands catamaran charter

This charter makes the most sense if you want:

• a private sailing day for friends, family, or a small celebration group
• a mix of on-water activities and an island break with walk time
• a boat day where lunch and basic on-board needs are handled

It’s also a good choice when your group has different preferences. Some people want water time. Others want calm strolling and views. The island stop gives options without forcing one plan.

That said, it’s not ideal if you hate weather-related uncertainty. The experience requires good conditions, and if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. So treat it like a planned outing tied to the day’s forecast.

Should you book this charter?

I’d book it if you’re aiming for a Bay of Islands day that feels personal, not crowded. The private catamaran format, the included paddle and snorkel gear, and the fact that lunch is taken care of make this a low-stress way to experience the area.

You should pass or at least think twice if you’re on a super tight schedule with no flexibility for weather. This experience depends on conditions, and while the team offers a redo date or full refund if canceled for weather, rescheduling might still mess with your other plans.

If you want an authentic Bay day with real activities—sailing out, anchoring at a boat-only island, then returning with the feeling you actually did something—this charter is a strong match.

FAQ

How many people can be on the private catamaran?

The maximum group size is 10 people. For groups larger than 10, you’ll need to contact the provider.

How long is the Bay of Islands sailing charter?

It runs for about 6 hours.

What time does the charter start?

The start time is listed as 9:30am, though you can choose a time of your choosing where available.

Where do we meet for the tour?

The meeting point is Bayscapes Sailing Charters Bay of Islands, 69 Marsden Road, Paihia 0200, New Zealand.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. Only your group participates.

What activities are included at the island stop?

Included activities are stand-up paddle board usage, snorkeling equipment use, and an island walk option.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is included as an individual packed lunch, with an upgrade option for a buffet-style plated meal.

Are alcoholic drinks included?

No. Alcohol is BYO, and it’s not sold on board.

Is there a restroom on the catamaran?

Yes, there is a restroom on board.

What happens if the weather is poor?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.