7 days
Bay of Islands
The ideal way to explore beautiful New Zealand is by luxury yacht. Charming coastal towns are immersed in history and the lush islands amidst speckling azure seas are achingly beautiful. Silvery beaches line rocky shores, while pods of dolphins play offshore. The peaceful and pristine Bay of Islands are a real gem for relaxed cruising.
Home to 144 islands, ranging from craggy islets to large inhabited isles, the Bay of Islands is situated in the "winterless north" of New Zealand. Enjoying a mild climate, the tropical currents travelling down from the equator ensure the water temperatures are equally pleasant.
On this fabulous New Zealand itinerary, start in the Coromandel and head towards the Bay of Islands to stay in more remote areas. This means you will definitely get the best out of Northland fishing, diving, surfing and sailing. Discover the abundance of marine life, explore gorgeous stretches of beach together with verdant forests and enjoy quirky villages ashore.
Why visit?
- Beautiful beaches
- Great surf spots
- History and culture
- Stunning views
- Wildlife
- Wreck diving
In the know
All Year Round
High season:
December - February
In the know
All Year Round
High season:
December - February
Make a Charter Enquiry
Day to day itinerary
01
DAY
Auckland to Coromandel
Fly by charter plane direct from Auckland International (approximately 45 minutes), landing on the grass runway of Whitianga Regional Airport. From the marina, travel by tender to the yacht, anchored in Cooks Bay to settle in and enjoy lunch on board. In the afternoon take the opportunity to explore Cooks Beach and Cathedral Cove. For the surfers in the party, Hot Water Beach has a good break (weather permitting). Sail around to Opito Bay for overnight anchorage.
02
DAY
Opito Bay to Port Charles
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, followed by some fun diving for scallops. Lunch will be freshly caught, delicious seafood! Cruise across to Great Mercury Isand and Peach Grove Bay for a scenic stop. The afternoon could be spent exploring some rocky dive sites for lobster or snapper fishing around Great Mercury. Take an afternoon or evening sail to Port Charles to anchor for the night.
03
DAY
Broken Islands to Port Fitzroy
Enjoy a morning sail across the Colville Channel to Bowling Alley Bay for some exploring ashore or swimming in the warm waters. In the afternoon cruise the Broken Islands, that true to their name, look as though they have been torn off the land in chunks and cast into the sea. Navigate the dramatically narrow Man of War Passage and head to Port Fitzroy. Stop at iconic Smokehouse Bay to prepare for the evening ashore. Only accessible by boat this is a yachtsman’s haven and a great spot to smoke the catch of the day in beautiful, natural surroundings.
04
DAY
Port Fitzroy to Great Barrier Island
If a hike is on the cards then the three hour walk up Mount Hobson on Great Barrier Island is highly recommended, and good news, it takes less time to walk down! There are swimming holes en-route and the views from the top are spectacular. Alternatively, there are beautiful shorter walks nearby. If the swell is running then Whangapoua Beach is a good option. If not there are some Eastern anchorages to explore that are also absolutely stunning.
05
DAY
The Poor Knights Islands
In the morning, journey to Tutukaka and the dramatic Poor Knights Islands, packed with excellent diving opportunities alongside local dive operators. The islands form a protected marine and nature reserve, rated as one of the top ten worldwide dives by Jacques Cousteau. With over 125 species calling the vast nooks and crannies their home, the underwater life found here is incredible. Look out for Blue and Pink Maomao, Kingfish, Pig Fish, Wrasse and Lizard Fish to name just a few. Underwater is not the only draw, the steep volcanic cliffs soaring high above the waterline harbour diverse flora and fauna. Nearby on the coastline surf can also be found if you are looking for an exhilarating ride. Anchor for the night at Whangamumu Harbour
06
DAY
Bay of Islands
The protected Bay Islands Marine Park is well worth a visit or take a hike along the Cape Brett Walkway, a magnificent track around the headland. The Hole in the Rock is a spectacular place to spear fish. Off the beach at Deep Water Cove which is ideal for snorkelling, and a great lunch stop. The Old Canterbury, is a shipwrecked frigate, teeming with fish and a great dive. Complete the Peninsular tour by anchoring in Oke Bay for the night.
07
DAY
Robertson Island to Russell Island
Awake and paddle board the coast or sail around the bay in search of the local pod of Bottle Nose Dolphins. Anchor off the rugged gem of Robertson Island for a scenic lunch spot. Perhaps take an afternoon scallop dive or a leisurely walk to the lookout on the island. Anchor for the night in Russell and its well worth visiting the Grand old Duke of Marlborough Pub.
08
DAY
Kerikeri
Sail to Kerikeri Inlet, famed for its horticulture and farmer's market. Browse art galleries and enjoy fresh local produce. At Doves Bay disembark for onward transport to Bay of Islands Airport.
