9 Reasons to Visit the Bay of Islands in 2022 | Yacht Charter New Zealand

Home to more than 140 beautiful islands located towards the northern end of New Zealand’s North Island, you will find a yacht charter paradise called the Bay of Islands. Famous for its big-game fishing, natural beauty and endless secluded beaches, it’s a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be explored.

With its sub-tropical climate, just a touch cooler than Australia, there’s plenty to see and do throughout the year, both on and off land. Explore the endless coastline, brimming with marine life. Head on land for culture, history and a myriad of walking trails. Then island-hop in style, waking up to ever-changing views throughout your charter.

Not quite convinced yet? Here are nine reasons to take a yacht charter to the Bay of Islands in 2022.

1. Stunning Secluded Beaches

Blessed with some of the most beautiful beaches in the Southern hemisphere, the Bay of Islands is a beach lover’s paradise. With sheltered coves, soft golden sands, warm blue waters and an abundance of fish, birds, and marine wildlife – finding a new beach to make yours every day is easy.

For those looking to indulge in a spot of sunbathing, swimming, and snorkelling, Oke Bay in the Cape Brett Peninsula is among the best of the best. Just a short distance from the Rawhiti settlement, the bay is a great place to watch dolphins, explore romantic walking tracks and enjoy a swim in the calm, clear water.

If you’re looking for something a little less secluded, Paihia Town Beach is where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and local bars on the waterfront. Te Tii Bay is located at the Northern end of Paihia, while Sullivan’s beach is at the Southern end, both famous for their secluded atmospheres and calm waters.

2. Undisturbed Natural Beauty

With more than 140 Islands scattered directly off the North Island, the micro-region hosts stunning natural beauty at every turn. Urupukapuka is home to New Zealand’s oldest tribal area, along with vibrant meadows, rolling valleys, and insta-worthy reefs.

The area is also lucky to have plenty of cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and gently flowing waterways. Both Haruru Falls and Rainbow Falls are worth a visit – with ample opportunity to kayak, swim and snorkel nearby.

Motuarohia Island, also known as Roberton Island, provides breathtaking scenic views, secluded bays, crystalline waters, and an abundance of wildlife to watch. Sheltered coves ensure the ocean is calm, making it ideal for dropping anchor and making the most of peace and tranquillity.

3. Abundant Aquatic life

With an abundance of fish, marine wildlife, and reefs, the Bay of Islands doesn’t disappoint when it comes to heading beneath the waves.

Deep Water Cove in Maunganui Bay is one of the best-known snorkelling hotspots in the area. Paihia is home to the wreck of the Canterbury and the Rainbow Warrior. Get up close and personal with an array of fish, turtles, and crustaceans as you explore an underwater world full of life and history.

4. Rich in History & Culture

With a native history dating back to at least the 10th century, the Bay of Islands were once the seat of the Ngapuhi tribe- and its rich cultural history can still be seen today.

If you’re a bit of a history buff, the Waitangi treaty grounds are the perfect starting point. In fact, it’s considered the most important historic site in New Zealand. Waipoua Forest is also worth a visit, take a short walk under cooling shade to the mighty Tane Mahuta kauri, a majestic 47m 2,000-year-old tree – the oldest in the country.

5. On-land Walking Tracks

While being on the water is definitely a huge attraction to this area, making your way on land and exploring some of the many walking tracks is definitely worth your time.

A popular on-land experience consists of the Kawiti Caves, which house tiny endemic glow worms that light up the caves with tens of thousands of twinkling lights. The local area is a network of walking tracks, forests, and stunning natural beauty.

Of course, the coast itself is ideal for romantic, relaxation walks and adventure. Simply drop anchor, make your way to land, and you’ll find somewhere new to walk, no matter where you are.

6. Perfect Throughout the Year

With average daily temperatures of 24°C during the summer, the Bay of Islands has the ideal climate for yacht charters throughout the year.

Dominated by a subtropical climate, each of the four seasons brings its own unique beauty. Summer is pleasantly warm with light winds and long days, while spring and autumn offer a milder climate. Autumn is also when the landscape switches from lush green to golden and bronze hues.

In Winter,  you’re most likely to see pods of dolphins and migratory whales passing by. While the air is cooler, there’s something magical about the Islands is that they catch the sun from lower in the sky.

7. Wine Tastings Galore

The perfect place to indulge in a spot of local wine tasting, the Bay of Islands has plenty of top-notch wineries and vineyards to discover.

Kainu Road vineyards are well worth a visit, serving up Pinot Gris, Tempranillo, Syrah, and Sauvignon Blanc, to name a few. Set within a 70-acre vineyard, other offerings include a variety of craft beers to enjoy.

Of course, there’s nothing quite like a flute or two of bubbles on the deck, so make sure you pick up a couple of bottles of your favourites to take back with you.

8. Relaxed Atmosphere

No matter where you venture to in the Bay of Islands, the relaxed atmosphere is everywhere. Wake up to the song of seabirds, enjoy a delicious cup of coffee on the deck, and watch the sunrise into the sky. Dig into freshly prepared meals while sailing past emerald-green forests, white sand beaches, and quaint oceanfront towns.

Evenings are ideal for dinner and drinks on deck as the sun goes down, revealing the clearest views of the stars. On land, you’ll be greeted by friendly locals happy to share their knowledge of the area, while the relaxed atmosphere carries over into the bars and restaurants.

9. Playground for Watersports

Weather-protected bays combined with calm, warm waters makes the Bay of Islands a haven for water toys and on-water fun. Whether you want to indulge in a spot of jet skiing or something gentler, such as kayaking or canoeing – the ocean is your personal playground.

Drop anchor and cool off with an ocean dip—Head beneath the waves with a snorkel. Or simply soak up the rays on the deck while you sail past a plethora of gorgeous islands and islets. Other activities such as parasailing, paddle boarding and helicopter tours await those after a little more adrenaline.

Enjoy a Luxury Escape in Style

With more than 4,000 yachts around the world; Ahoy Club has options perfect for weekend escapes and extended stays in the Bay of Islands and beyond.

Find your ideal yacht and get ready to discover first-class service, modern facilities and amenities, bespoke itinerary planning, maximum privacy, and sheer luxury.
What are you waiting for? Book your next yacht charter with Ahoy Club today and get ready to set sail in absolute style.