CRUISE ITINERARY
There are numerous beautiful anchorages on the mainland and islands along the North East coast of the North Island. Around Auckland, in the Hauraki Gulf, there are over 200 sheltered anchorages to choose from. You are spoilt for choice.
From November through to April our main cruising grounds are around the Hauraki Gulf Auckland including Great Barrier Island, Coromandel, Bay of Islands and the Northland coast. We are based at Westhaven Marina, just a 30 minute taxi ride from Auckland International Airport. Within 2 hours from the marina you can be amongst the islands of the inner Gulf.
Great Barrier Island, 50 miles east of Auckland, is a destination in itself and offers some of the best diving and fishing in NZ. There is a commercial airline that services the island daily. Depending on your itinerary and to save time, we can sail “Salanjo” to Great Barrier Island and meet you there. The Bay of Islands is another top charter destination.120miles north by sea, a four hour drive or a one hour plane trip. You could spend 3 days sailing up the coast with lots of lovely anchorages to stay overnight in then spend 5 days cruising around the islands. Or, we meet you there.
The Bay is studded with many islands providing an area of great beauty and unspoiled sailing grounds. There is great fishing, diving and white sandy beaches within sheltered waters.
Your cruise can be customised to meet your specific needs and interests.
A Suggestion:
Day 01: Auckland to Kawau Island
A very pleasant 3 hour sail heading north in sheltered waters past the icon of Auckland, Rangitoto Island. Lunch stop, swim and optional shore excursion at Tiritiri Matangi, an open sanctuary, home to many rare native birds and animals. In the afternoon sail onto Bon Accord Harbour, Kawau Island. The eastern side has sheltered coves and inlets. Ashore, there are many walks, short or long, and you can visit the historic mansion built by Governor Grey, the first governor of NZ.
Day 02: Kawau to Coromandel
We set sail for the beautiful area of the Coromandel Peninsular, 30 miles east across the Firth of Thames. Many wonderful anchorages to choose from here. This is a lovely coastline favoured by cruising yachtsmen.
Day 03: Explore Coromandel
This can involve kayaking, walks ashore over picturesque farmland or visit the historic and colourful gold mining town of Coromandel. Can be as busy or relaxed as you want.
Day 04: Coromandel to Waiheke Island
Pleasant 2 hour sail or longer if you wish to stop and fish. Again, there are many anchorages to choose from fringed with sandy beaches and rolling farmlands.
Day 05: Explore Waiheke Island
Sailing around this island there are many special places of interest to stop and explore. Waiheke is a popular holiday spot for Aucklanders. Ashore, there are excellent local art and craft galleries to visit, wine tasting tours of the vineyards, top restaurants and cafes to tempt you, or perhaps a game of golf, horse riding or a coastal walk.
Day 06: Return to Auckland
Nice two hour sail to the marina and if time permits, we would stop at Rangitoto Island for an easy walk to the summit.This extinct volcano has a landscape quite unlike anything else and the views from the top are amazing.
Add a few more days on to your itinerary and we could also include Great Barrier Island and/or the beautiful Mercury Islands
