New Zealand · SAILING
19 reviewed
Good sailing trips fill up over a New Zealand summer and the best of them are gone by October. The 15 that stand out are below, with current prices and what makes each one different.
Milford Sound nature cruise on a modern catamaran with outdoor decks, live skipper commentary, HD screens, and wildlife sightings in 105 minutes.
“Really great even though it was raining and the crew were wonderful”
2.5-hour eco sail on Lake Taupo to Maori Rock Carvings, with warm drinks, blankets, music, and a swim in clear water.
“Fantastic morning out on the water. Friendly guides and informative tour.”
Sail Barbary eco-electric cruise on Lake Taupo for Maori rock carvings, with myths, close views, and evening wine plus a swim.
“Chris is a great guy with a huge love for sailing. The carvings are amazing and the relaxing trip on the lake was very welcome. Make sure to bring sunscreen though!”
Sail Auckland Harbour at sunset with live commentary and a 3-course dinner on a 50-foot yacht from Viaduct Harbour.
“3 person crew was very nice but presentation was absolutely lacking. One drink offered before meal. Appetizers and meal - really really awful . So disappointed”
Sail a real America’s Cup yacht on Waitemata Harbour. Take the helm or grind winches on a 2-hour Auckland crew sail.
“The young crew were outstanding, professional, very informative. A credit to their company and their country.”
Sail the Bay of Islands aboard R. Tucker Thompson with hands-on schooner work, scones, BBQ lunch, and wildlife spotting plus Russell downtime.
“Capt Magnus and his crew showed us just how beautiful the Bay of Islands really is! Fascinating to learn the history of the ship’s creation and how this activity directly supports youth development in sailing. Bravo Zulu!”
A 2.5-hour sailing dinner on Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour with a 3-course menu from The Lula Inn, plus jackets for windy nights.
“We had a wonderful experience on the Harbour Sailing Cruise with 3-course dinner. The sailing crew was extremely friendly and welcoming. We were offered a complimentary welcome drink (alcoholic options included), and additional beverages were available for purchase at very reasonable prices. The 3-course dinner was very delicious and exceeded our expectations. The crew also provided clear and interesting explanations about the sights along the way which made the cruise even more enjoyable. Everything was well organized from start to finish, and the sailboat itself was in excellent condition. Overall, this cruise is an absolute recommendation!”
1.5-hour Auckland Harbour sailing from Viaduct Harbour, past Sky Tower and the Bridge, with live crew commentary, coffee, and ponchos.
“It was a nice sailing excursion -- I would recommend”
Sail an America's Cup racing-class yacht on Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour, help hoist sails or steer, and enjoy skyline views in 2 hours.
“Great fun! They gave us the entire experience! Highly recommend! Participate, or not, whatever you choose.”
Sail Abel Tasman’s coast from Kaiteriteri to Anchorage Bay, then hike back to Marahau on a self-guided coastal track.
“Had a wonderful day’s touring including the catamaran and the walk through the park. Claudia who collected us from the Marahau car park and joined us sailing was knowledgeable and friendly. Very much enjoyed listing to the birds on Adele Island and watching the sea lions with pups at play. Our walk out was a bit longer than expected @ 4+ hours but picturesque.”
Sail the Bay of Islands from Russell on a small yacht, with snorkeling, kayaks, beach time, and lunch, plus wind-driven island stops.
“Amazing day on the water, Natalie was the perfect skipper and host! Local knowledge was wonderful as was our walk across Frenchman's Bay.”
A 3.5-hour catamaran sail from Whitianga to Cathedral Cove, with optional swim or snorkel, snacks, and drinks on Mercury Bay.
“Thoroughly enjoyed a relaxing morning sailing - went for a quick and cold swim, had some hot coffee and saw Cathedral Cove from the water. Our guides were easy going and knowledgeable. Would recommend for anyone looking for something a little off the beaten path!”
A small-group 5 to 6 hour sail in the Bay of Islands on Phantom, with snorkel time, an island hike, and homemade lunch.
“Having plenty of time on the helm of Phantom. The skipper shared his knowledge and experiences in a pleasant and jovial manner.”
Six-hour Bay of Islands catamaran from Paihia with 2-hour wildlife island stop, picnic lunch, snorkeling and paddleboarding.
“We absolutely loved our guides and the atmosphere! Great sense of humour and genuine interest in getting to know each and every person on the tour!”
Cruise Lake Te Anau on the restored historic Faith, enjoy live commentary, then take a short guided walk in Fiordland with afternoon tea.
“Both the skipper and assistant were extremely knowledgeable and ensured we had a comfortable trip. It was such a lovely, peaceful afternoon, and I learned so much on the brief nature walk! Would highly recommend”
