Island Hopper- Sail to wildlife sanctuary - 6 hr - Bay of Islands

5.0(322)6 hFree cancellationBy Barefoot Sailing Adventures

About this activity

Most visitors see the Bay of Islands from a crowded deck. Our guests see it from the secret local spots that are not on the standard tourist circuit. The Island Hopper cruise takes you to a wildlife sanctuary island, by sail. It's a side of the Bay most tour boats never reach.

Board straight from Paihia beachfront — the catamaran pulls up to the beach, kick off your shoes and you're on the water within minutes.

As you sail, the crew will keep you entertained, and give you live commentary — coastline, history, the native wildlife that calls this special place home.

At the island, the boat anchors for two hours where you can go ashore to swim, snorkel, paddleboard in the sheltered bay. Walk the native bush tracks through a working wildlife sanctuary. Take a packed picnic lunch to a spot of your choice.

The sail home is where everything slows down, this is where the bliss factor kicks in, kick back relax. Or if you’re a keen sailor - help hoist the sails and join the crew at the helm

What's included

✓Live commentary throughout
✓Sail through the Bay of Islands to a remote wildlife sanctuary island
✓Cold drink on the return sail
✓Island time - 2 hrs — water activities, bush tracks, beaching, exploring, picnic lunch
✓Snorkel equipment and paddleboard use
✓Live crew commentary throughout — genuine sailing, not a tour bus on water
✓- Morning tea — coffee, tea, hot chocolate, biscuits
✓Packed Picnic Lunch— Deli sandwich, fruit, cake/muffin, nut bar & chips. Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten Free, or Dairy Free option available - please make a note in the comments section when booking
✓Full day sailing adventure (approx. 6 hours)

Not included

✕Please bring your own water bottle, we can refill for you. Tea/coffee provided.

Meeting and pickup

You will find the Barefoot sailing catamaran anchored close to the shore line about half way along the stretch of Paihia beach. It won't be hard to find, it has Barefoot Sailing Adventures footprint logo sign written along the side, and it is usually anchored at least 30 min prior to departure.

Good to know

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Boarding is from the Paihia beach — which requires you to be steady on your feet and able to manage using a boarding ladder without physical assistance. You will step from the sand into shallow water, then onto a boarding ladder to get onto the catamaran. In some conditions (such as a very low tide) a dinghy may be used to get from shore to the boat.
This cruise includes optional activities - Walking on bush tracks of moderate grade, walking on uneven natural terrain (footwear recommended). To join the water activities, guests must be able to swim in open water unassisted.
Non-swimmers are very welcome onboard. We have lifejackets if you wish to wear one during the sailing time.
CRUISE SHIP CUSTOMERS please check the arrival & departure time of your ship BEFORE you book this cruise. We advise a 1.5 hour window either side of cruise ship anchor/departure is recommended to allow time to get to and from our departure point. The ship arrival point is not the same as the departure point for tours in the Bay of Islands (we are happy to help you with directions - please message us ship/date details) PLEASE don't make a booking as a "placeholder" while you consider your options, check your itinerary first, please. We do not make allowances for a change in ship schedule. Normal terms and conditions apply.
Vegetarian, Vegan, Dairy Free, Gluten Free lunches are available- please request in the notes during the booking process. LUNCHES ARE NOT SUITABLE FOR FOOD ALLERGIES as we can't guarantee there is no cross contamination of allergens. If you have a food allergy please bring your own lunch for your personal safety and satisfaction.
Children must be accompanied by an adult. Children under 5 (including infants) require a child ticket to board.
Operates in most weather conditions, please dress appropriately, and be prepared for a day in the great outdoors
Refunds will not be issued if you miss the boat due to late or non-arrival. The boat departs on time without exception to stay on schedule so please ensure you have allowed ample time for travel & parking.
Not recommended for people with poor mobility
If you're unsure whether this works for you, please contact us before booking. We'd rather help you to make the right choice, than have you find out at the water's edge.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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