Sailing the Secret Shores of the Bay of Islands

RUSSELL BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Sailing the Secret Shores of the Bay of Islands

A 5.5-hour small-group sail from Russell with Phantom Charters/Phantom Sailing that visits hidden islands and pristine beaches and includes a legendary onboard lunch.

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Sailing the Secret Shores of the Bay of Islands.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Russell
Operator
Phantom Sailing
Category
Boat Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Picture yourself aboard a small sailing charter, skimming turquoise water toward islands with golden, unmarked beaches—this is the Bay of Islands. On Phantom Charters' Bay of Islands Day Cruise you spend 5.5 hours exploring secluded coves and “secret spots,” choosing your destination or letting the crew guide the day while enjoying a convivial, well-stocked lunch on board.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE LUNCH

A legendary onboard spread

The cruise includes a famously generous lunch of New Zealand cheeses, seasonal fruit, homemade bread, chutneys and sweets—built to match a day spent at sea and onshore.

THE ROUTE

Secret islands and pristine beaches

The itinerary seeks out unspoiled islands and golden sands—places where footprints are rare—letting small groups discover parts of the Bay of Islands most visitors miss.

THE VIBE

Small-group, personalised sailing

Operated as a comfortable, personal small-group experience, the charter accommodates an intimate passenger complement so the day feels like a private exploration led by local hands.

What the day feels like

What the day feels like

Expect a deliberate, relaxed cadence: sail from Russell into open water, drift between islands, drop anchor off a quiet beach for swims or shoreline walks, and return to the boat for a long, shared lunch. The choice of where to land rests with you or with the crew’s local judgement, making each voyage flexible and tailored to the group.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this cruise suits

1
Small groups & couplesDesigned as a personal, small-group sailing experience—capacity is limited so groups stay intimate and the day feels private.
2
FamiliesAll ages are welcome, making this a straightforward option for multigenerational outings in the Bay of Islands.
3
Food-minded travelersThe cruise’s onboard lunch—cheeses, seasonal fruit and homemade breads—makes it a good choice for those who value a memorable meal as part of the day.
4
People seeking a relaxed paceWith a 5.5-hour duration and an emphasis on leisure and exploration, the trip suits those who prefer unhurried time on the water.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Duration & rate

The cruise runs for 5.5 hours at a per-person rate of $195; lunches are included.

What’s included

On-board provisions include New Zealand cheeses, seasonal fruits, homemade bread, chutneys and sweets—lunch is provided as part of the cruise.

Group size

All ages are welcome and the operator accommodates up to 10 passengers, keeping the trip small and personal.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Bay of Islands Day Cruise?

The cruise lasts approximately 5.5 hours.

How much does the cruise cost per person?

The rate is $195 per person; lunch is included.

Who operates the cruise?

The sailing is operated by Phantom Charters / Phantom Sailing.

Are there age limits or capacity limits?

All ages are welcome and the vessel accommodates up to 10 passengers.

What food is provided on board?

The cruise includes New Zealand cheeses, seasonal fruit, homemade bread, chutneys and sweets as part of the onboard lunch.

Can I choose where we go?

Yes—the itinerary is flexible: you can choose a destination or let the crew guide you to local 'secret spots' and beaches.