Bay of Islands Yacht Charters – Experience the Best of New Zealand Sailing

SAIL THE BAY OF ISLANDS & BEYOND IN A LUXURY NZ BOAT CHARTER

Cruise the New Zealand coast in comfort

Escape to paradise on your terms. Imagine the Bay of Islands at your fingertips: crystal-clear waters lapping against your private boat charter in NZ, hidden coves beckoning exploration, and dramatic coastlines stretching towards the horizon. Create the memories of a lifetime with your favourite people as Silver Wave Yacht Charters transforms this dream into reality aboard our luxurious catamaran.

Our extensive cruising grounds stretch from the picturesque Whitianga on the Coromandel Peninsula to the majestic North Cape at the northern tip of New Zealand’s North Island, encompassing the vibrant city of Auckland and the serene Hauraki Gulf.

Experience unparalleled five-star service onboard your Bay of Islands sailing charter as you unwind in one of our four elegantly appointed staterooms, each featuring a private ensuite. Spend your days discovering new shores, indulging in gourmet cuisine, and partaking in exciting activities. Whether you wish to learn the art of sailing with our expert crew or bask in the beauty of your surroundings, the adventure is yours to design.

At Silver Wave Yacht Charters in New Zealand, we provide the setting for unforgettable memories on the water. Book your dream voyage with us today.

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OUR CRUISES & TOURS

BAY OF ISLANDS

The Bay of Islands unfolds like a mariner's dream with a cluster of 144 islands, each a treasure trove waiting to be unearthed. Explore this paradise with private yacht charters in the Bay of Islands.

At Motuarohia, you can find twin lagoons with crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. You can also hike nature trails through Waipao Bay on Moturua Island.

Urupukapuka Island, the largest, boasts the charming Otehei Bay with its waterfront bar and cafe. Delve deeper into history with an archaeological walk, uncovering the remnants of ancient Maori villages.

Continue your island odyssey at Waewaetorea, where relaxation and panoramic views await on the white sand shores of Stingray Bay. Soak in the rich heritage at Marsden Cross at Rangihoua Bay, the site of New Zealand’s first European settlement. Get a glimpse of the early days of European-Māori interaction. Explore this historic site and many more island gems with the perfect yacht charter in NZ.

Berth your NZ boat charter near the historic Stone Store and Kemp House in Kerikeri Inlet to explore New Zealand's oldest buildings.

Trek from Deep Water Cove to reach the iconic Cape Brett lighthouse and marvel at the abundance of sea life that calls the dive wreck, HMNZS Canterbury, home.

No Bay of Islands sailing charter is complete without a visit to Russell, once known as the “Hell Hole of the Pacific”. This historic site is whereMāori chief Hone Heke famously chopped down the British flagpole four times between 1844 and 1845, leading to the start of the Northern Wars. Today, it is a quiet, charming, and quaint village. Alternatively, visit nearby Okiato, New Zealand's first capital before returning on your boat cruise from Paihia.

HOLE IN THE ROCK

The Hole in the Rock, known as Motukōkako in the Maori language, is a natural wonder of New Zealand's North Island coast. During your Hole in the Rock cruise, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and other marine life, such as whales, seals, and penguins. Traditionally, Māori warriors journey through the Hole in the Rock before heading into battle, believing that the "lucky drip" from the cave ceiling serves as a good omen.

While we are unable to pass through the hole with our 21 metre mast, our boat charter gets up close to this famous attraction, allowing for exclusive photo opportunities. When the conditions are suitable, passengers can also get a chance to paddleboard through the hole.
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Want customised boat charters in the Bay of Islands? Silver Wave Yacht Charters works with you on the perfect itinerary for the ultimate luxury getaway.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Experience The Silver Wave difference

Professional captain
and chef

Your crew are experts in their profession. You can rest easy knowing you are in good hands.

We bring the toys

Head out snorkelling, biscuiting, paddleboarding and more with our water toys.

fuel included

We cover fuel expenses in all of our services.

Additional luxuries

From à la carte menus to arranging something special, the experts on our boat charter in New Zealand go the extra mile to ensure complete satisfaction.

Land ahoy!

With hundred of islands to discover, the only limit is how long you decide to spend with us.

Make a splash

Scuba dive a wreck or admire the abundant fish life in our marine parks.

Relax onboard

Feeling tired or need to stop and unwind? Enjoy the amenities and service aboard the luxury floating hotel we call Serenity.

Learn to sail

Let your NZ yacht charter captain teach you the ropes and increase your nautical knowledge, from navigation to steering and mooring.

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OUR YACHT

Sailing catamaran "Serenity"

If you’re looking for a luxury yacht hire in New Zealand, Silver Wave offers one of the best options. Spread over three decks and boasting a solid foredeck fitted out with an enormous plush seating and lounging area, Serenity is the Bay of Islands' most comfortable and luxurious sailing catamaran.
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Fuel your sense of adventure with activities like fishing, diving, and jet skiing, or personalise your itinerary with custom pick-up and drop-off locations. With a day capacity of up to 20 guests, Serenity is perfect for your next big celebration or corporate event. What better way to spend a special day than sailing the scenic Bay of Islands?

If you want to accommodate a large party on a Multi-Day yacht charter in New Zealand, look no further. Serenity is the only sailing catamaran in the Bay of Islands that can comfortably accommodate overnight charters for up to 8 guests.

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PRIVATE OR SHARED

Choose your ideal sailing experience

As you prepare to embark on your unforgettable journey, we invite you to decide which type of cruise best suits your preferences. Would you enjoy the exclusivity and personalized service of a private charter, or the camaraderie and shared memories of a shared cruise?

PRIVATE CHARTERS

Experience the ultimate privacy and luxury with a cruise exclusively for you—perfect for intimate gatherings, special occasions, or simply indulging in a bespoke adventure.

PRIVATE MULTI-DAY CHARTER

Sit back, relax, and stay as long as you want with customisable itineraries designed to your interests. Let your captain showcase the best cruising grounds in New Zealand while your private chef serves you gourmet meals.

PRIVATE DAY CHARTER

Sail your boat charter in New Zealand through the Bay of Islands, stroll ashore on an island or two, enjoy some watersports, savour a chef-prepared meal, and relax as we sail the sea breeze back to port.

PRIVATE HALF-DAY CHARTER

Sail to the famous twin lagoons of Motuarohia Island, swim, paddleboard or take a walk to the best viewpoint in the Bay of Islands. Enjoy a chef-prepared meal and a relaxing sail back to port.

ISLAND EXPLORER DAY CRUISE

Sail with like-minded travellers on a day of exploration as we cruise through the Bay of Islands. Enjoy free time engaging in whatever activity interests you before sailing your boat charter in NZ through the sea breeze back to port at the end of the day.

EVENING SUNDOWNER CRUISE

Watch the sun set over Waitangi as you sail the inner Bay of Islands and unwind with a drink at our fully licensed bar—the perfect way to end the day.

SHARED CRUISES

Join fellow travellers and create lasting memories together. Enjoy the vibrant social atmosphere, make new friends, and share the joy of discovery with like-minded adventurers.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HOW FAR IN ADVANCE SHOULD I BOOK BOAT CHARTERS TO THE BAY OF ISLANDS?

Booking a boat cruise to the Bay of Islands depends on when you want to set sail. We have no limitations on how far in advance we can take reservations; contact us when you’re ready to book! Take note that popular times like holidays and public holidays fill up fast.

If you have your heart set on a specific date, especially during peak season, contact us as soon as possible. We"ll be happy to check availability and help you plan your dream trip!

CAN I CUSTOMISE MY SAILING ITINERARY?

Absolutely! Whether you envision a short overnight escape or a multi-week exploration, we can tailor your New Zealand boat charter itinerary to your desired timeframe.

For those seeking the ultimate relaxation experience, our crew will take you to all the best spots to chill and soak up the sun. Otherwise, if exploration is your passion, you can collaborate with our captain to map a route to all the coolest spots when sailing the Bay of Islands.

WHAT'S THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO CHARTER A YACHT IN NEW ZEALAND?

Although you can discover the beauty of New Zealand year round, the peak yacht charter season is during the summer months of December to late February. This peak season boasts warm weather of around 20-30°C and sunshine, perfect for soaking up the scenery from your private deck. However, these prime months also see high demand, which is why we recommend booking yacht charters to the Bay of Islands ahead of time to ensure you get the dates you want.

Captain and guests make a plan for the day in front of the chart

Couple picnic ashore, Waewaetorea Bay of Islands, New Zealand

30+

years of sailing & maritime experience

280+

island destinations

2400+

square kilometres of cruising ground

1400+

kilometres of pristine coastline

TESTIMONIALS

Our satisfied client reviews

An amazing sunset cruise... unforgettable

Nga mihi o te tau hou Matariki - thank you to Scott and his team for hosting us aboard the Silver Wave Yacht. An amazing sunset cruise to celebrate Matariki - it really was a take your breath away experience and a very beautiful way for us to celebrate an event that is very close to my heart. Would absolutely recommend for anyone to book in with the Silver Wave team - I guarantee you the experience will be unforgettable. Nga mihi ki a koutou.

Gina and Ella

Te Tau Hou Māori Sunset Cruise

Very comfortable cabin and leisure area...

An incredible time aboard with Scott and his fantastic crew. A rare find in New Zealand to be on a superior yacht. Very comfortable cabin and leisure area for groups. Cannot recommend enough and can’t wait to come back!

Sharneigh Brown

Infinite Horizon Overnight Charter

It was a great time to unwind with our team...

We hired Silver Wave for our studio's staff party and absolutely loved it! It was a great time to unwind with our team and see more of our backyard. We had plenty of space on the front deck to lounge, share a grazing platter, and pop open some bubbles while getting a salty breeze in our hair. 10/10 recommend for a unique experience in the Bay.