7-Day Auckland Yacht Charter Itinerary: Hauraki Gulf & Bay of Islands Serenity
7 planned days, starting at Waiheke Island (Matiatia Bay) and finishing at Opua (Bay of Islands). Stops include Waiheke Island (Matiatia Bay), Great Barrier Island (Tryphena Harbour), Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve, Russell (Bay of Islands), Urupukapuka Island (Bay of Islands) and further stops detailed below. Confirm the daily passages and shore plans with your captain before booking.
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Plan this charter
- First planned stop
- Waiheke Island (Matiatia Bay)
- Final planned stop
- Opua (Bay of Islands)
Shore plans to discuss with your crew
- Day 1Wine tasting at Mudbrick Vineyard
- Day 1Stroll along Oneroa Beach
- Day 1Explore the island's art galleries
- Day 1Sunset views over the Hauraki Gulf
- Day 2Hike to Kaitoke Hot Springs
- Day 2Kayaking in the harbour
Confirm joining and departure ports, yacht availability and the daily passage plan before paying a deposit. The captain decides anchorages and any route changes for weather, sea conditions and local restrictions. Shore venues, marine-park permissions and activity bookings require separate confirmation.
Map connections are schematic, not a navigable passage plan. Distances, safe approaches and passage times must be checked by the captain.
Ask for an itemised quotation covering the charter fee, taxes, APA or package expenses, berth charges and any delivery or redelivery costs.
- DAY 01
Waiheke Island (Matiatia Bay)
Just a short sail from Auckland, Waiheke Island welcomes you with its renowned vineyards and olive groves. Matiatia Bay offers a convenient and picturesque anchorage for your first night.
- Wine tasting at Mudbrick Vineyard
- Stroll along Oneroa Beach
- Explore the island's art galleries
- Sunset views over the Hauraki Gulf
- Anchorage
- Matiatia Bay
- Dining
- The Oyster Inn
- DAY 02
Great Barrier Island (Tryphena Harbour)
Venture further into the Hauraki Gulf to the rugged and unspoiled Great Barrier Island. Tryphena Harbour provides a sheltered base to explore this wild paradise.
- Hike to Kaitoke Hot Springs
- Kayaking in the harbour
- Dark Sky Sanctuary stargazing
- Surfing at Medlands Beach
- Anchorage
- Tryphena Harbour
- Dining
- Currach Irish Pub
- DAY 03
Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve
Cruise north to the Poor Knights Islands, a world-renowned marine reserve and divers' paradise. The crystal-clear waters teem with vibrant marine life and dramatic underwater caves.
- Snorkelling or diving in the marine reserve
- Exploring Riko Riko Cave
- Bird watching for rare species
- Photography of the unique rock formations
- Anchorage
- South Harbour
- Dining
- Onboard chef's specialties
- DAY 04
Russell (Bay of Islands)
Enter the historic Bay of Islands, mooring near Russell, New Zealand's first capital. This charming town offers a glimpse into early European and Māori history.
- Visit Christ Church, the oldest church in NZ
- Explore the Russell Museum
- Walk to Flagstaff Hill (Te Maiki)
- Enjoy local seafood at a waterfront restaurant
- Anchorage
- Russell Anchorage
- Dining
- The Gables Restaurant
- DAY 05
Urupukapuka Island (Bay of Islands)
Discover the largest island in the Bay of Islands, Urupukapuka. Its walking tracks offer panoramic views and secluded beaches perfect for a day of relaxation and exploration.
- Hiking the Urupukapuka Island Loop Track
- Swimming at Otehei Bay
- Paddleboarding in sheltered coves
- Picnic on a deserted beach
- Anchorage
- Otehei Bay
- Dining
- BBQ on the beach
- DAY 06
Whangaroa Harbour
Sail to the dramatic Whangaroa Harbour, known for its towering, bush-clad rock formations and deep, sheltered waters. It's a haven for fishing and kayaking.
- Kayaking through the 'Marble Caves'
- Fishing for snapper and kingfish
- Hiking to St Paul's Rock for views
- Exploring the harbour's many coves
- Anchorage
- Peach Island Anchorage
- Dining
- Whangaroa Sport Fishing Club
- DAY 07
Opua (Bay of Islands)
Conclude your Bay of Islands adventure in Opua, a major maritime hub. Enjoy a final New Zealand breakfast before disembarking and reflecting on your journey.
- Visit the Opua General Store
- Walk along the waterfront
- Enjoy a farewell brunch
- Observe the yachting community
- Anchorage
- Opua Marina
- Dining
- Marina Cafe
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