Only 3 hours drive from Auckland, the Bay of Islands is one of the most beautiful sailing areas in New Zealand. It is ideal for less experienced sailors as most of the cruising area lies within the sheltered confines of the bay. There are dozens of islands and coves to explore without having to undertake any long passages as the whole area covers no more than 130 square miles. For those wishing to stretch their legs, the Cavalli Islands and the harbours of Whangaroa and Mangonui lie to the north while the cruising area extends to the south as far as Whangarei, half way to Auckland.

The whole area is liberally sprinkled with clean, deserted sandy beaches fringed with grassland or woods so take a stroll along the shore before dinner on board if you have been successful with rod and line. If not, the small towns of Opua, Waitangi, Paihia, Russell and Kerikeri have a good selection of restaurants and shops to cater for your needs off the water. The local Maori culture is alive and well here and is evident throughout the artistic, culinary and historical sides of life in Northland.

A highlight of any yacht charter in the Bay of Islands is a dip in the ocean with the local dolphins who will often visit you along the way or in your anchorage. Superb diving can be found within the marine reserve of Poor Knight’s Island and on the wreck of the Rainbow Warrior. Fishing is good all over the Bay with snapper the usual catch of the day. Due to the uncrowded nature of the area expect to stay several nights on anchor or mooring buoy as marinas are few and far between.