8 days
Bay of Islands
Unearth the majestic beauty of New Zealand with our 8-day luxury yacht charter New Zealand itinerary. The ideal way to explore the charming coastal towns, steeped in history, and lush islands amidst azure seas, is undoubtedly by a luxury yacht. These islands are achingly beautiful, with silvery beaches lining rocky shores, and pods of dolphins playfully splashing offshore. The peaceful and pristine Bay of Islands, an ideal destination for a yacht charter, are a true 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. Partaking in a New Zealand luxury yacht charter, you'll enjoy a mild climate, thanks to tropical currents travelling down from the equator, ensuring the water temperatures are equally pleasant.
On this fabulous luxury yacht charter New Zealand itinerary, start in the Coromandel and head towards the Bay of Islands to stay in more secluded areas. With your Bay of Islands yacht charter, you will have the opportunity to indulge in Northland's finest - fishing, diving, surfing, and sailing. Explore the plethora of marine life, gorgeous stretches of beach, verdant forests, and enjoy the unique charm of local 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
Embark on your New Zealand luxury yacht charter by flying from Auckland International on a private charter plane (approximately 45 minutes), landing on the verdant grass runway of Whitianga Regional Airport. From the marina, travel by tender to your luxury yacht, anchored in Cooks Bay. Settle in and savour lunch on board. Spend your afternoon exploring the scenic Cooks Beach and Cathedral Cove. Surfing enthusiasts will find a great break at Hot Water Beach (weather permitting). As the day ends, sail around to Opito Bay for an overnight anchorage.
02
DAY
Opito Bay to Port Charles
Start the second day of your Bay of Islands yacht charter with a leisurely breakfast, followed by an exhilarating dive for scallops. Indulge in a lunch of freshly caught seafood, the best of New Zealand's bounty. Cruise to the picturesque Great Mercury Island and Peach Grove Bay for a scenic stop. Your afternoon could be spent exploring rocky dive sites for lobster or snapper fishing around Great Mercury. Conclude your day with a sail to Port Charles to anchor for the night.
03
DAY
Broken Islands to Port Fitzroy
Day three of your luxury yacht charter in New Zealand begins with a sail across the Colville Channel to Bowling Alley Bay, where you can explore ashore or swim in the warm waters. In the afternoon, cruise the Broken Islands, which truly resemble chunks torn off the land and cast into the sea. Navigate the dramatically narrow Man of War Passage and head to Port Fitzroy. A stop at the iconic Smokehouse Bay prepares you for an evening ashore, offering a yachtsman’s haven, accessible only by boat.
04
DAY
Port Fitzroy to Great Barrier Island
On the fourth day of your yacht charter around Bay of Islands, consider a three-hour hike up Mount Hobson on Great Barrier Island. Enjoy swimming holes en route and marvel at the spectacular views from the top. If the swell is running, Whangapoua Beach is a great option, otherwise, the Eastern anchorages are absolutely stunning to explore.
05
DAY
The Poor Knights Islands
In the morning, journey to Tutukaka and the dramatic Poor Knights Islands, filled with excellent diving opportunities alongside local dive operators. The islands, part of a protected marine and nature reserve, are home to over 125 species, making for an unforgettable underwater adventure on your luxury yacht charter in New Zealand.
06
DAY
Bay of Islands
Day six of your yacht charter introduces you to the protected Bay Islands Marine Park. Consider a hike along the Cape Brett Walkway, or visit the Hole in the Rock, an awe-inspiring site for spearfishing. End your day by anchoring in Oke Bay for the night.
07
DAY
Robertson Island to Russell Island
Awaken to the tranquillity of your luxury yacht charter. Paddleboard the coast or sail around the bay in search of local pods of Bottle Nose Dolphins. After anchoring off the rugged gem of Robertson Island, consider a visit to the historic Grand Old Duke of Marlborough Pub in Russell.
08
DAY
Kerikeri
End your 8-day luxury yacht charter in New Zealand in Kerikeri Inlet, famed for its vibrant horticulture and bustling farmer's market. Browse local art galleries and enjoy fresh local produce. At Doves Bay, disembark from your superyacht for onward transport to the Bay of Islands Airport.
