The 6 Best Island Hopping Sailing Trips in New Zealand

1.Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sailing on R. Tucker Thompson Including BBQ Lunch

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 361 reviews · from $111Our pick

Sail the Bay of Islands aboard the R. Tucker Thompson with scones, BBQ lunch, island stops, rope swings, and hands-on tall-ship fun.

“The day was perfect. I have mobility issues and from the first moment, the crew were there to help; willingly and graciously. Our crew, led by captain Magnus were super friendly, interactive (my husband helped sail) and above all fun! Fresh-baked scones with ham and whipped cream were served with coffee and tea. Followed by a stop at an island to swim and explore. Lunch of BBQ chicken, salad, fresh breads and butter, potato salad were waiting for us back on board. The sailing ship was a beautiful adventure and each of our 4 said it was beyond expectations, which were high! Don’t miss this…such value for your money and…”

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2.Island Hopper Day Cruise – sailing to wildlife sanctuary island – 6 hr cruise

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 301 reviews · from $139

Review of Barefoot Sailing Adventures’ six-hour Bay of Islands cruise, with sailing, wildlife sanctuary walks, snorkeling, lunch, and practical tips.

“Bring clothes you can get wet and clothes to keep you dry. You are given the opportunity to snorkel, paddle board, hike, or just enjoy the day on the beach. I chose to hike and paddleboard, had a blast doing both.”

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3.Phantom Sailing Bay of Islands

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 177 reviews · from $121

Review of Phantom Sailing in New Zealand’s Bay of Islands, with a small group, island walk, snorkeling, homemade lunch, and dolphin sightings.

“Highlight of our trip! Beautiful weather, great meal and made each guest feel like a personal guest. A must do!”

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4.Bay of Islands: Catamaran Sail, Wildlife Island & Lunch

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 173 reviews · 6 hours · from $134

Review of a six-hour Bay of Islands catamaran sail with island wildlife, snorkeling, lunch, local guides, and practical booking tips.

“Great experience! Welcomed by our friendly guide Luke. Offered us a warm beverage and shared some information about the culture and wildlife on the Islands. Sailing gave that relaxation experience with options of activities to do in the Island. We enjoyed a packed lunch and a few snacks in our own personalised bags. Two thumbs up for this experience”

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5.Bay of Islands: Full-Day Tall Ship Sailing Excursion

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 147 reviews · 5h 30m · from $107Best value

Sail the Bay of Islands aboard the R. Tucker Thompson, with hands-on sailing, cream tea, BBQ lunch, swimming, and island views.

“Lovely friendly atmosphere and lots of fun. The surroundings in the Bay are truly beautiful and onboard activities great. Definitely in our top 3 experiences in Auckland/North North Island area.”

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6.Bay of Islands: Day Sailing Cruise with Island Stop & Lunch

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 122 reviews · 6 hours · from $128

Sail from Paihia on a small-group Bay of Islands catamaran cruise with island walks, swimming, paddleboarding, snorkelling, and lunch.

“The guides were awesome. The catamaran was beautiful and we saw dolphins!”

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