DAY SAILING IN THE BAY OF ISLANDS
“A DAY IN THE BAY…
THE KIWI WAY!”

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Sailing Bay of Islands

Looking for a unique, kiwi experience? Take a sailing trip with Barefoot Sailing Adventures.

Join the Barefoot crew exploring the beautiful Bay of Islands by sail. We provide an authentic kiwi experience, with options to suit both adventurers and chill seekers alike, looking for a mixture of fun, adventure and relaxation. You can do as much or as little as you like.

Choose from a full day or half day sailing cruise with island stopover, or a relaxing evening cruise, with our all inclusive sailing tours there’s some thing for everyone on a Barefoot Sailing Adventure! With options to join a ticketed cruise or book a private charter.

Let our experienced and qualified team take you on a modern-day boat adventure – we’ll explore the best of the Bay of Islands hidden gems, with a unique and personalised feel. Specialising in small groups of around 16 passengers, you wont get lost in the crowd, you’ll feel like part of the crew!

Our boat Kopiko, is a modern 33ft catamaran which offers a comfortable sailing experience, suitable for all ages. Sit back and relax in comfort while taking in the sights and sounds of the Bay of Islands, or join the crew and have a go at sailing.

Departing from Paihia beach, the catamaran is anchored right up close to the shore line where you join the boat. Start the day with your feet in the sand, kick you shoes off and step aboard for the ultimate Bay of Islands sailing adventure. A day in the Bay, the Kiwi way.

So, welcome aboard! Let the Barefoot crew share our love of sailing with you!

Island Hopper Cruise

Lagoon Bay Cruise

Sundowner Evening Cruise

Private Charters

Bay of Islands Sailing Tours

Join Barefoot Sailing Adventures for the most unique sailing Bay of Islands has to offer.

Sailing in the Bay of Islands is an absolute must do when visiting Northland! Located in the sub-tropical Far North of New Zealand, the Bay of Islands is a magical sailing destination; offering over 140 natural islands within easy day sailing distance. This little slice of paradise is a truly memorable place to go for a sailing trip, with its calm, pristine waters, marine wildlife and of course, the naturally stunning scenery. The Bay of Islands is a world-renowned sailing destination, whether you’re a first-time sailor or a seasoned professional, you’ll have a great time with Barefoot Sailing Adventures.

Here at Barefoot Sailing, our friendly crew are ready and waiting to take you out for a trip you’ll never forget – so kick off your shoes and step on board for the sailing trip of a lifetime!

support local business

we are proud to be a sustainable boating tourism operator, supporting conservation projects in the Bay of Islands. Part of your ticket price is donated to
Project Island Song, bringing visitors the benefit of a wildlife sanctuary on the islands of Ipipiri.

Love dolphins? We do too.

In fact, the Barefoot crew love dolphins so much we prefer to leave them alone. We have a strong environmental conscience and believe in a hands-off approach when it comes to dolphins, we prefer to respect their space and enjoy them from a distance!

However, we do experience dolphin encounters on occasion. As this is a completely natural encounter, it is very special and possibly the best way to experience dolphins as they have chosen us!

Learn More about dolphins in the Bay of Islands.

Project Island Song – A Wildlife Sanctuary.

As we sail through the emerald channels of Northland, a gentle cruise leads us to the shores of Project Island Song Wildlife Sanctuary, and before the anchor drops the echo of birdsong greets us. Welcome to our special place. This is Ipipiri, a group of seven pest-free islands in the Bay of Islands.

See what we are doing to support Project Island Song.

100% NEW ZEALAND OWNED & OPERATED

UNIQUE ADVENTURES

SMALL GROUPS – UP TO 16 PASSENGERS

WHICH CRUISE IS FOR YOU?

Do it !

We had the best day with the Barefoot Sailing team. Beautiful people, magnificent day. You can choose to do as little or as much as you want…. Lunch was delicious.

If you’re in Bay of Islands, don’t miss out on this!

Haley

Fantastic day out

Luke and Rachel were fantastic hosts; relaxed, knowledgeable and helpful. The catamaran was immaculate and the bean bags were lovely and cosy. Destination, tour and sights were top notch – we even saw dolphins. Overall would definitely recommend.

Simon

Wonderful experience, top level care and attention.

Luke and Rachel could not have been more attentive to us on our trip, ensuring that we were comfortable, safe and informed about the intricacies of the Bays around us. They made us feel like family and ensured that everyone including the children were involved and engaged throughout the trip. It was without doubt the best sailing experience we have had.

Angie

Professionalism, Quality, Value.

Felt like being treated to a great day out with some extended family. A full but relaxed day of new things and great company. Doesn’t feel like you’re on a “group tour”, just out for a good time! Great value for money too, a highlight of our trip North for sure!

Lawrence

Great company!

Had an excellent trip with the barefoot team. They are passionate about giving back to their local area and are passionate about protecting the NZ flora and fauna. Lovely people, amazing trip, beautiful scenery and a great way to spend a day. Highly recommend!

Daniel

We loved our experience sailing with Barefoot today! In particular the emphasis on Maori/Te Reo names of the islands and local conservation information.

Would recommend for sure!

Lauren

Can’t get enough!

Just got back to Auckland after a perfect day’s sailing with Barefoot Adventures. This is the 2nd time we have sailed with Luke and Rachael. If you are looking for a really cool day out on the water sailing and exploring the Islands this is one not to miss. Delicious lunch included and a refreshing cold drink to round off the day. Very friendly and informative so don’t miss out.

David

Amazing value!

For a relaxing but stimulating day out on the water, a perfect mix of chill and activities learning about the local geography history and geography as well as the fauna. Snorkelling, paddle boarding and short walks to a perfect secluded island beach are options and refreshments and lunch are included in the very reasonable price – in fact I think it’s a bargain!

Gavin

So delightful and so relaxing.

Stepping off the beautiful beach in Paihia onto the Barefoot catamaran was like setting out on an adventure on your own boat, Luke and Rachael gave me such a warm greeting and made me feel like I was part of the family from the first moment.

I didn’t think life could get much better. I couldn’t recommend this trip more!

Garth

Arguably the best value for money in beautiful Paihia. Luke & Rachel treated us to a day of sightseeing, activity, exploring, sun & relaxation whilst sailing through the Bay of Islands. Grateful for their friendly, informative chats & knowledge of this area. Highly recommend & appropriate for almost every age.

Ngā mihi nui Luke & Rach, Kiwi hospitality at it’s best.

Catherine