Day Sailing Charter on Catamaran with Lunch : Bay Of Islands

Imagine spending a full day cruising along the stunning coastline of New Zealand’s Bay of Islands, with the wind in your hair, island stops for swimming or walking, and a delicious lunch onboard. That’s exactly what you get with this 6-hour sailing experience departing from Paihia. The Bayscapes Charters offer a well-rated, relaxed yet activity-filled day that’s perfect for anyone who loves the water, nature, and a touch of adventure.

What makes this trip particularly appealing are two things we love: first, the well-thought-out itinerary that balances sailing, exploring, and relaxing, and second, the friendly, professional hosts who are praised for their hospitality and local knowledge. It’s clear this experience isn’t just about the scenery — it’s about the people guiding you through it and making sure you have a memorable time.

A small consideration is that the tour requires a minimum of 4 passengers to run, so it might not be available if you’re traveling solo or in a very small group. But if that’s not an issue, this trip suits couples, families, or groups who want a genuine, personal touch on their day out.

This tour would suit travelers who appreciate stunning vistas, enjoy water activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling, and want a well-rounded day with good food and engaging guides. It’s especially ideal for those who like the idea of exploring a remote island, soaking up the sun, and cruising in comfort.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary combining sailing, water activities, and island walks
• Friendly, knowledgeable guides enhance the experience
• Great value with a full 6-hour trip, lunch, and equipment included
• Comfortable catamaran with ample space, beanbags, and indoor saloon
• Ideal for all ages including families with young children
• Weather-dependent—sailing can be windier than expected, so pack layers

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose This Bay of Islands Sailing Trip?

We loved the spacious layout of the catamaran — with plenty of room to stretch out and enjoy the scenery. The beanbags and indoor saloon offer a comfortable spot to relax while taking in the views, whether under the sun or sheltered from the breeze. The 2-hour island stop is a standout feature, providing a perfect balance of adventure and leisure. Whether you prefer swimming, paddleboarding, snorkeling, or simply wandering the island trails, there’s plenty to keep you engaged.

The crew’s friendliness and knowledge earn high praise. Many reviews mention how guides Brad and Monique made everyone feel safe, well-informed, and comfortable, adding a personal touch that sets this trip apart. The lunch is another highlight — a tasty, thoughtfully catered meal with options for vegans, vegetarians, and those with gluten or dairy restrictions. That’s a big plus, especially for travelers who value good food without the fuss.

On the downside, the weather is always a wild card in sailing. Some days might be windier than others, affecting the sailing experience or the comfort of certain water activities. It’s worth packing a warm jacket and being flexible if the weather isn’t perfect.

This tour is best suited for those who want a relaxed yet engaging day on the water, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, walking, and enjoying the scenery — all with the benefit of knowledgeable hosts and tasty food.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Departure from Paihia Wharf

Your adventure begins at 9:30 am sharp from Paihia Wharf. The boat — a modern, very well maintained catamaran — offers a stable ride and enough space for everyone to spread out comfortably. From the outset, the friendly crew sets a welcoming tone, explaining the plan for the day and making sure everyone is comfortable.

Cruising Along the Coastline

As we set sail, the views of the Bay of Islands’ rugged coast roll past. It’s a scenic journey, with options to sit on the deck or relax on the beanbags, soaking up the views or chatting with fellow travelers. The breeze is refreshing, and many reviews praise how smoothly the boat sails — some even mention how it’s one of the best sailing experiences they’ve had.

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Spotting Marine Life

One of the pleasures of this trip is the chance to see marine life. While not guaranteed, many guides keep an eye out for dolphins or other sea creatures, adding an element of surprise. We loved the way guides shared stories and facts about the local environment, making the journey both scenic and educational.

Island Stop and Water Activities

The highlight for many is the 2-hour stop at a secluded island. Here, options abound: take a swim, snorkel around the coral, stand-up paddleboard, or go for a self-guided walk. One reviewer called it a “perfect opportunity to relax and explore,” and many appreciated the equipment provided — snorkels, masks, and paddleboards are all included.

“Brad and Monique are excellent hosts, that made us all feel safe at any time,” says one happy guest. The island’s quiet beaches and bush trails make for a refreshing break from the boat. You might find yourself chatting with new friends, taking photos, or just lying in the sun with a good book.

Lunch on Board

After the island adventure, a delicious catered lunch awaits. It’s a highlight for many, with reviewers praising the flavor and variety — including gluten and dairy-free options. The lunch is served on the deck or inside, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenery while eating.

Afternoon Sail and Return

Post-lunch, the boat sets sail back toward Paihia, often under sail for a more traditional experience. The gentle movement of the boat and the calming sounds of the water create a relaxing atmosphere. Many reviews mention how the hosts keep everyone informed and engaged, sharing stories about the area and sailing tips.

The trip wraps up around 3:30 or 4 pm, leaving you with a sense of having truly experienced the Bay of Islands from a unique vantage point.

What Sets This Tour Apart

This sailing trip excels in personalized service. Many reviews highlight how Brad and Monique go above and beyond to ensure guests are comfortable and informed. The attention to detail — from providing equipment to offering helpful commentary — makes this experience stand out.

The small group size, capped at around a dozen people, means it doesn’t feel crowded. You get ample time to relax, ask questions, or enjoy water activities without feeling rushed.

The quality of the boat is another big plus. It’s described as “very well taken care of,” with a comfortable interior and plenty of space on deck. The beanbags are a clever feature, offering a cozy way to lounge while taking in the scenery.

Water Activities and Equipment

The snorkels, masks, and paddleboards are high quality, and the self-guided nature means you can go at your own pace. Many guests find these provided tools to be a highlight, especially since snorkelling and paddling are included in the price. The flexibility encourages spontaneous adventures and exploration.

Lunch and Food

The catered lunch is often praised as a “great meal,” with fresh ingredients and options for dietary restrictions. Having good food included without an extra charge is a significant value, especially as some tours charge separately for meals or drinks.

The Reviews Speak for Themselves

Most reviews are 5-star, emphasizing the friendly hosts, beautiful scenery, and relaxing atmosphere. Guests comment on how well-organized and friendly the experience feels, and many say they would happily do it again.

Practical Tips for Your Day Out

• Bring swimwear, a towel, and weather-appropriate clothing. It can get breezy on the water, so a warm jacket is recommended.
• Shoes must be removed when getting onto the boat, so consider easy slip-ons or sandals.
• Alcoholic drinks aren’t available onboard, but you can bring your own (a cooler is provided).
• The tour operates with a minimum of 4 passengers, so check availability before booking if you’re traveling alone.
• The trip usually runs in the morning, but confirm the schedule when booking for your preferred dates.
• The meeting point is Paihia Wharf, where you’ll look for the “Bayscapes” catamaran.

The Sum Up

This Day Sailing Charter on a Catamaran in the Bay of Islands promises a well-balanced mix of sailing, island exploration, water fun, and good food — all delivered with a personal touch from hosts who genuinely care about making your trip special. It’s suitable for families, couples, or small groups looking for a relaxing yet activity-packed day on the water. The high praise from dozens of happy travelers suggests you’ll be in safe hands, with plenty of opportunities for memorable moments and stunning scenery.

If you value knowledgeable guides, a friendly atmosphere, and a full-day experience that combines adventure and relaxation, this trip is worth considering. It’s especially ideal if you’re keen on water activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling, or simply want to unwind on a boat in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful areas.

For those wanting a genuine, personal sailing experience with excellent amenities and a flexible schedule, this tour hits the mark. It offers excellent value for the price and plenty of opportunities for a memorable day in the Bay of Islands.

FAQ

How long is the sailing trip?
The trip lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 9:30 am and finishing around 3:30-4 pm.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll get a 6-hour sailing adventure, a 2-hour island stop for water activities and walks, a tasty catered lunch (with dietary options), snorkeling masks, snorkels, and paddleboards.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, alcoholic drinks are not available onboard, but you’re welcome to bring your own. A cooler is provided for your convenience.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, weather-appropriate clothing, and perhaps a warm jacket for the sailing leg of the trip.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention families with children, and water activities are self-guided with equipment provided, making it flexible for all ages.

What if the weather isn’t good?
Since sailing depends on wind and weather conditions, it’s possible the day could be windier than expected. The tour offers a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance, so check the forecast and plan accordingly.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at Paihia Wharf and look for the “Bayscapes” catamaran.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
It requires a minimum of 4 passengers, so it’s best suited for small groups, couples, or families. Solo travelers might consider joining with friends or checking availability ahead of time.

This detailed review should give you a clear picture of what to expect and help you decide if this Bay of Islands sailing adventure is right for you. With its combination of comfort, activity options, and expert hosts, it’s a memorable way to experience New Zealand’s stunning coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: