NEW ZEALAND
The good new zealand sailing tours fill up weeks ahead and the small boats go first. Below: the 15 to book early, what each includes and how they differ.
Sail Lake Taupō to the Māori Rock Carvings aboard Fearless, with local stories, a long swim stop, blankets, and a drink for $35.
“Fantastic trip on the lake, early sailing not busy on the water...All round great experience 🌺”
Cruise Lake Taupō by electric yacht to the Māori Rock Carvings, with local stories, swimming, drinks, and calm lake views.
“Great ride guide was good, could have had some water available on the ride due to extremely warm weather”
Review of Auckland’s 2.5-hour sailboat dinner cruise, with sunset harbor views, a three-course meal, live commentary, and practical booking tips.
“The sailing was great. The crew were very nice. The food was terrible. Maybe consider a sailing and drinks only cruise”
Sail a genuine America’s Cup yacht around Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour, help crew the boat, steer, grind, and enjoy expert guidance.
“Everything was great! Nothing to improve. I had a great time, it was awesome to steer the boat and we worked together to put the sails up. Everyone was friendly and it really felt like we had a real experience of sailing an america's cup boat!”
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…”
Review of Auckland’s 2.5-hour sailing dinner cruise, with a three-course New Zealand meal, sunset views, local stories, and practical tips.
“We had a great time even with a broken boom for the mainsail. The crew made sure we had a wonderful sail and the meal was fantastic! I felt well taken care of and had a good time the choice of music wasn’t bad either. 😁 Everyone from the office and the boat were friendly and helpful.”
Review of Auckland’s 90-minute sailing cruise, with harbor views, hands-on sailing, crew commentary, hot drinks, pricing, and practical tips.
“We had the best time ever. The crew were so professional and friendly guiding the trip brilliantly. We enjoyed steering the boat under the harbour bridge. A great experience - go on it and make memories.”
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.”
Sail an America's Cup yacht on Auckland's Waitemata Harbour, help crew the boat, and enjoy skyline views in a two-hour outing.
“This is a real sailing experience and a ton of fun. Guests are encouraged to take part in the sailing experience. I got to grind as we hoisted the main sail, drive, and even squirrel the giant asymmetrical spinnaker. Beautiful day, exciting sailing, and a young enthusiastic crew. Highly recommended!”
Sail past seals and Split Apple Rock, then walk from Anchorage Bay through native bush to Marahau on this full-day Abel Tasman trip.
“Excellent we completed the boat trip and walk combo. It was a beautiful day the sun was shining and the activity was excellent. Well worth the money”
Sail Lake Taupō aboard a luxury catamaran to Māori Rock Carvings, with lake views, swimming, drinks, and shelter in any weather.
“One of the best experiences in Taupo! The boat is lovely, the carvings are magnificent and the views are unbeatable. I plan on taking it again while I’m here, don’t miss out!”
Review of Boom Sailing’s Whitianga trip to Cathedral Cove, with sailing, optional snorkeling, drinks, practical tips, and value advice.
“They were incredibly friendly and fun. We had a lot of fun and were very relaxed throughout the sailing. The snorkel time was fantastic.time was fantastic.”
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!”
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”
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.”
Pick a rig, a coast or an afternoon.
