Sailing Cruises & Tours NZ

Sailing cruises and tours are some of the most sublime ways to discover the multi-faceted jewel that is New Zealand. At RedBalloon, we have an exceptional selection of sailing NZ opportunities, whether you’re after a luxurious escape for two, a delightful cruise replete with lunch and drinks, or a hands-on racing adventure. 

We make it easy for you to choose the kind of sailing cruise you want – and the most likely to float your boat according to factors like price, duration, destination and onboard activities. It is one of the amazing water activities you can enjoy from the RedBalloon range. 

Where are the best places to go sailing in NZ?

With its beautiful shorelines, dotted with gorgeous islands, sandy coves and cliffs, along with its beautiful inland lakes and waterways, there’s an abundance of choices for your sailing NZ adventure.

Take a trip on a sustainable sailing cruise to Maori rock carvings in Taupo, for example, or climb aboard a tall ship to explore the Bay of Islands. Meanwhile, a three-hour private sailing cruise aboard a luxury catamaran is the perfect way to experience the splendour of Lake Rotoiti, exploring its bays, coves and cultural sites, discovering its glow worm caves and bathing in its hot pools.

Sailing in Auckland

Its coastal position, harbour and beautiful waterways make Auckland the ideal destination for boating – one of the best ways to experience the ‘City of Sails’. 

Auckland’s sailing opportunities include highlights such as dinner cruises, incorporating delicious multi-course fining dining along with the shimmering beauty of Waitemata Harbour. From the moment you receive canapes and drinks when you first step aboard to the last flavours of the sumptuous dessert enjoyed as you sail back to the vibrant Viaduct Basin, it’s an experience like no other.

If your taste runs to something more active, then you’ll love the chance to partake in a three-hour Rum Race yacht experience. Here you’ll join the crew sailing on the Lion NZ or Steinlager2, once led by Sir Peter Blake, as it takes part in the thrilling and exhilarating racing action around the harbour.

Meanwhile, yachties will jump at the chance to sail on a genuine America’s Cup yacht, with NZL40 and NZL41 offering the unique opportunity for you to participate in sailing on a grand prix racing machine.

Sailing Bay Of Islands

With many beautiful islands and an abundance of anchorage locations, the Bay of Islands is an irresistible destination for sailing.

Seasoned and budding yachties will love, for example, stepping on board a 42ft classic yacht for a five-hour cruise, taking in the gorgeous natural scenery while watching out for dolphins, penguins and seabirds. You’ll also have a chance to stop off on one of 144 islands in the region, spending the afternoon kayaking, snorkelling or relaxing on a beach while enjoying a superb picnic lunch. 

What time of year should I go sailing in NZ?

Generally speaking, sailing is an all-year-round experience, but the best time of year is inevitably going to be during the summer months when the sun’s warmth is going to take the edge off the wind-chill factor.

If you’re up for the challenge, you’ll grab at the chance to hoIst the sails.. However, some sailing cruises and tours only operate during summer and surrounding months – so you’ll have to be mindful of that before planning your sailing adventure!

What to wear sailing?

With the eclectic range of NZ sailing cruises and tours available, your options for what to wear will vary slightly.

At the least, we recommend bringing a jacket, warm clothes and closed (soft-soled) shoes. Sunglasses, sunscreen and hats would also be advised to cope with the glare and shimmering waters on clear days. Meanwhile, of course, bring swimwear and towels for those cruises that offer the chance to take a dip!