Auckland to Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island
Depart from Auckland's vibrant marina and cruise east across the Hauraki Gulf toward Waiheke Island, passing the iconic Rangitoto Island. Anchor in Oneroa or Onetangi Bay for an afternoon swim and private vineyard tasting experience showcasing New Zealand's finest wines. Enjoy a sunset dinner onboard overlooking rolling hills and turquoise waters.
Highlights:
- •Scenic Auckland departure and Rangitoto Island views
- •Boutique vineyard tasting experience
- •Sunset dinner with island vistas
Waiheke to Great Barrier Island
Great Barrier Island
Cruise further into the Hauraki Gulf to Great Barrier Island, one of New Zealand's most untouched and remote destinations with pristine natural beauty. Anchor in peaceful Tryphena Harbour and spend the afternoon kayaking along dramatic coastlines and exploring secluded coves. After dark, experience stargazing in one of the world's Dark Sky Sanctuaries, or enjoy a chef-led tasting menu onboard.
Highlights:
- •Kayaking dramatic Great Barrier Island coastline
- •Stargazing in Dark Sky Sanctuary
- •Nature-immersed overnight anchorage
Great Barrier to Coromandel Peninsula
Coromandel Peninsula
Cruise south toward the Coromandel Peninsula to experience dramatic coastal scenery and sheltered anchorages. Explore the iconic Cathedral Cove and hidden beaches accessible only by water, then enjoy paddleboarding and snorkeling in crystal-clear turquoise bays teeming with marine life. Anchor near Cooks Beach for a peaceful overnight surrounded by native forest and pristine coastline.
Highlights:
- •Cathedral Cove exploration
- •Snorkeling turquoise bays
- •Sheltered Cooks Beach anchorage
Mercury Islands & Remote Exploration
Mercury Islands
Continue to the Mercury Islands, a remote cluster of rugged islets offering a true off-grid superyacht experience far from civilization. Spend the day snorkeling pristine reefs, fishing in rich local waters, and exploring sea caves and secluded coves. Enjoy sunset cocktails on deck in complete seclusion, surrounded only by natural beauty and starlit skies.
Highlights:
- •Pristine reef snorkeling
- •Off-grid sea cave exploration
- •Sunset cocktails in total seclusion
Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve
Poor Knights Islands
Cruise north to the Poor Knights Islands, one of the world's top dive and snorkeling locations with world-class underwater ecosystems. Explore spectacular sea caves, natural arches, and dramatic volcanic formations teeming with abundant marine life including rays and schooling fish. Conclude with a rejuvenating private onboard spa afternoon after your water adventures.
Highlights:
- •World-class diving and snorkeling
- •Sea caves and volcanic arches
- •Private onboard spa treatment
Bay of Islands Arrival
Bay of Islands
Arrive in the legendary Bay of Islands, home to 144 scenic islands and sheltered anchorages perfect for peaceful cruising. Navigate through the famous Hole in the Rock and explore turquoise bays ideal for swimming and water sports. Anchor in a protected cove for a spectacular sunset while enjoying cocktails on deck and preparing for your final days of exploration.
Highlights:
- •Hole in the Rock navigation
- •Turquoise bay swimming and water sports
- •Sunset anchorage with postcard views
Russell, Waitangi & Kawau Island
Bay of Islands
Spend the morning exploring Russell, New Zealand's charming first capital with historic colonial buildings and waterfront character. Visit the iconic Waitangi Treaty Grounds to experience Māori cultural heritage, then cruise south toward Kawau Island. Tour the historic Mansion House and enjoy a leisurely afternoon before your farewell dinner onboard reflecting on an extraordinary week.
Highlights:
- •Historic Russell exploration
- •Waitangi Treaty Grounds visit
- •Kawau Island Mansion House tour
Return to Auckland
Auckland
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on deck while cruising back toward Auckland Harbour through scenic Hauraki Gulf waters. Stop for a final swim in pristine bay waters (weather permitting) to savor the last moments of your New Zealand adventure. Disembark at central Auckland marina with unforgettable memories of island explorations, marine adventures, and the remarkable beauty of the North Island's waters.
Highlights:
- •Scenic Hauraki Gulf return cruise
- •Final swim in pristine waters
- •Disembark with extraordinary memories
Duration
8 Days / 7 Nights
Destination
Available Dates
September to April
Locations
Starting: Auckland Marina
Finishing: Auckland Marina