If the South Pacific is our backyard, the Bay of Islands is our front room
Set sail from your Opua charter base and explore the breathtaking Bay of Islands and its surroundings. From Opua, head out past the historic towns of Russell and the Waitangi Treaty Grounds on the other side of the channel. Very soon you will round Tapeka point and the islands of the bay will appear before you. This natural wonderland teems with birdsong, regenerating native flora, dolphins and other marine life. Numerous sheltered beach anchorages promise an idyllic sailing escape.
Captain James Cook aptly named this area; some 144 islands dot the Bay's sheltered east coast of New Zealand's North Island. When sailing these islands, the mainland coast is always within easy reach, providing a multitude of safe and sheltered anchorages for your sailing vacation. It's a beloved summer pastime for many Kiwis, with ample space for everyone to enjoy.
Urupukapuka, the largest island and a pest-free national recreation reserve, is a popular day-trip destination. Its name, meaning 'the island with many pukas' (a large tree), hints at its natural beauty. Discover scenic nature walks, stunning beaches, and the lively bar/cafe at Otehei Bay, once a haven for the renowned Western writer Zane Grey and his affluent friends who indulged in sport fishing.
Seeking tranquility away from the holiday bustle is easy. Explore the captivating Motuarohia and Moturoa islands, or anchor in the stunning Oke Bay along the mainland coast.
As you depart from or return to Opua, make time to explore Russell ashore, perhaps even spending a peaceful night in its sheltered bay. If your charter schedule allows, call at Waitangi to delve into the history of te Tiriti o Waitangi, the significant and much-debated treaty between the Crown and Māori. Waitangi is an essential experience for any visitor.
Your Bay of Islands sailing adventure extends beyond the Bay itself. The designated charter area includes Whangamumu to the south, a former whaling station with limited road access, offering a secluded harbor experience. Alternatively, venture north to Whangaroa and discover the pristine waters of the Cavalli Islands. Here, you'll find ample opportunities to relish both the thrill of sailing and moments of serene relaxation.
Embark on a sailing holiday in Northland, New Zealand, and immerse yourself in the Bay of Islands region - a destination brimming with diverse choices and all the enjoyment you could desire from a sailing getaway. It's the perfect plave for a relaxing sailing vacation, a favorite summer destination for Kiwis, with plenty of space for everyone.
* When visiting the islands of the Bay, please check your bags for stowaways such as mice, rats, Argentine ants and Rainbow/Plague Skinks. Clean your footwear, clothing and bags and ensure they are free of soil and seeds. This also helps to prevent the spread of Kauri dieback. Close all bags or boxes. Everything you bring should be sealed or zipped shut. Immediately report any sightings of rats, mice, stoats, cats or dogs on the islands, their tracks, or droppings to DOC - 0800 362 468.
New Zealand's sub-tropical sailing paradise, just a 3-hour drive north of Auckland
The Bay itself is 10 miles across with its island and coastal anchorages to the south and on the northern shore are more beaches plus the KeriKeri and Te Puna inlets.
Urupukapuka, the largest island and a national recreation reserve, is known for being pest-free. The Department of Conservation has made many tracks on the island and it's a great place to walk to the top of the hill and take in the vista of the bay.
Moturua Island next door also has tracks. It is more forested than Urupukapuka and birdlifeeven more abundant.
Motuarohia (Roberton) Island with its famous twin lagoons that fill up with the tide can be a great place for kids to learn to snorkel. More birds and one of the better chances of spotting a Kiwi if you venture ashore at night. On the adjacent mainland many boats take shelter between Orakawa and Opunga Cove, a place where you can be guaranteed the waters will be still and calm for the night.
Venturing out to Cape Brett in good weather can be enjoyable, then sailing past the rugged coast to Whangamumu harbour, an old whaling station that is a remote haven for the night.
If time and weather allow you can leave the bay to the north and sail 15 miles to the Cavali Islands with its clear sub-tropical waters and sandy beaches. 10 miles beyond that and a better anchorage is Whangaroa Harbour, its narrow entrance opening up to a large enclosed harbour with towering rock formations at its western arm.
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Determined to make use of my time during the covid pandemic lockdown, Robert Cross set out to build himself a boat. The result is the Elliott 11.5 tourer ‘Denim’, launched October 2024 and now available for charter in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand
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