Island Hopper- Sail to wildlife sanctuary – 6 hr – Bay of Islands

Most visitors see the Bay of Islands from a crowded deck. Our guests see it from the secret local spots that are not on the standard tourist circuit. The Island Hopper cruise takes you to a wildlife sanctuary island, by sail. It’s a side of the Bay most tour boats never reach. Board straight from Paihia beachfront — the catamaran pulls up to the beach, kick off your shoes and you’re on the water within minutes. As you sail, the crew will keep you entertained, and give you live commentary — coastline, history, the native wildlife that calls this special place home. At the island, the boat anchors for two hours where you can go ashore to swim, snorkel, paddleboard in the sheltered bay. Walk the native bush tracks through a working wildlife sanctuary. Take a packed picnic lunch to a spot of your choice. The sail home is where everything slows down, this is where the bliss factor kicks in, kick back relax. Or if you’re a keen sailor – help hoist the sails and join the crew at the helm

Itinerary

What’s included

• Live commentary throughout
• Sail through the Bay of Islands to a remote wildlife sanctuary island
• Cold drink on the return sail
• Island time – 2 hrs — water activities, bush tracks, beaching, exploring, picnic lunch
• Snorkel equipment and paddleboard use
• Live crew commentary throughout — genuine sailing, not a tour bus on water
• – Morning tea — coffee, tea, hot chocolate, biscuits
• Packed Picnic Lunch— Deli sandwich, fruit, cake/muffin, nut bar & chips. Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten Free, or Dairy Free option available – please make a note in the comments section when booking
• Full day sailing adventure (approx. 6 hours)

Not Included

• Please bring your own water bottle, we can refill for you. Tea/coffee provided.

Additional Information

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Boarding is from the Paihia beach — which requires you to be steady on your feet and able to manage using a boarding ladder without physical assistance. You will step from the sand into shallow water, then onto a boarding ladder to get onto the catamaran. In some conditions (such as a very low tide) a dinghy may be used to get from shore to the boat.
• This cruise includes optional activities – Walking on bush tracks of moderate grade, walking on uneven natural terrain (footwear recommended). To join the water activities, guests must be able to swim in open water unassisted.
• Non-swimmers are very welcome onboard. We have lifejackets if you wish to wear one during the sailing time.
• CRUISE SHIP CUSTOMERS please check the arrival & departure time of your ship BEFORE you book this cruise. We advise a 1.5 hour window either side of cruise ship anchor/departure is recommended to allow time to get to and from our departure point. The ship arrival point is not the same as the departure point for tours in the Bay of Islands (we are happy to help you with directions – please message us ship/date details) PLEASE don't make a booking as a "placeholder" while you consider your options, check your itinerary first, please. We do not make allowances for a change in ship schedule. Normal terms and conditions apply.
• Vegetarian, Vegan, Dairy Free, Gluten Free lunches are available- please request in the notes during the booking process. LUNCHES ARE NOT SUITABLE FOR FOOD ALLERGIES as we can't guarantee there is no cross contamination of allergens. If you have a food allergy please bring your own lunch for your personal safety and satisfaction.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult. Children under 5 (including infants) require a child ticket to board.
• Operates in most weather conditions, please dress appropriately, and be prepared for a day in the great outdoors
• Refunds will not be issued if you miss the boat due to late or non-arrival. The boat departs on time without exception to stay on schedule so please ensure you have allowed ample time for travel & parking.
• Not recommended for people with poor mobility
• If you're unsure whether this works for you, please contact us before booking. We'd rather help you to make the right choice, than have you find out at the water's edge.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Cancellation Window	Refund Eligibility
24 hours or more before start time	100% refund (Full refund)
Less than 24 hours before start time	Non-refundable (0%)

This experience may be cancelled due to bad weather. This experience may be cancelled if there are not enough travelers.

Important Information

Thanks for booking your cruise with Barefoot Sailing Adventures, we're looking forward to sailing with you!

Please contact us if you have any questions phone +64 (0) 274784234 or DIRECT email [email protected]

It's a good idea to confirm your booking 24 hours in advance by phone, we will inform you of weather conditions, what to expect etc. A phone call is the best form of contact for any last minute info

Wear comfortable practical clothing (jeans not recommended) and something warm even during summer. BE SUN SMART. Bring a hat & sunblock, you will be outside on deck for the duration of the trip (although you can go inside the boat). Bring a towel for swimming and walking shoes for the tracks. Don't forget your water bottle! Keep hydrated.

Please inform us in advance if you have special dietary requirements.
We can cater to Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten Free, Dairy Free. Please note that all food is made in the same kitchen so we can't guarantee food products are 100% free of any allergens etc. NOT SUITABLE FOR ALLERGIES. If you have any serious food allergies or preferences, please cater for your needs to ensure your personal safety and satisfaction.

If you have any serious medical conditions, please inform us when you arrive.

A maximum of 20 people per booking

A moderate amount of walking is involved if you choose to do the island walks, please wear appropriate footwear

THIS TOUR IS NOT RECOMMENDED FOR THOSE WITH WALKING DISABILITIES OR UNSTABLE IN THE LEGS – Due to uneven surfaces, sea conditions, moving boat

Operates in most weather conditions, please dress appropriately, and be prepared

Refunds will not be issued if tour/activity is missed due to late or non-arrival

CRUISE SHIP CUSTOMERS be advised that 1.5 – 2 hours either side of cruise ship anchor/departure is recommended to allow reasonable time to get to and from our cruise. We do not make allowances for a change in ship schedule or late arrivals.

Normal terms and conditions apply.

Age Policy

Infant: 0–2 years · Child: 3–12 years · Youth: 13–17 years · Adult: 18–99 years