Sail Bay of Islands, New Zealand

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Sailing in the Bay of Islands off the east shore of New Zealand’s North Island provides an opportunity to enjoy yachting in sheltered waters with abundant wildlife. Dispersed off shore stretching 80 km, sailors can count more than 80 islands divided by short passages boasting beautiful beaches, convenient anchorage and quaint towns. Blue penguins, dolphin, robins, snapper and kingfish are but a few examples of the abundant land and sea life prevalent among these unspoiled atolls. An artificial reef with its roots in the sunken HMNZS Canterbury is a favorite diving location and other wrecks in the Bay are equally popular. Greenpeace’s flagship, the Rainbow Warrior, was sunk by French saboteurs and lies as an artificial reef near the Cavalli Island grouping in Matauri Bay as a refuge for the marine life she was trying to protect. Some of the islands in the chain boast excellent surfing beaches to complement first class diving, fishing and kayaking opportunities available. Your cruising adventure may very well begin in Auckland, the capital of New Zealand and a world class city in its own right with a major international airport. The Westhaven Marina in Auckland provides every support service needed to insure a successful sail but other marinas in Auckland are equally suitable. Other marinas such as those found in Kerikeri, Russell and Mangamuka can also provide access to quality craft. Bareboat charters on yachts ranging from 8 to 20 meters are easily arranged with embarkation in Auckland or one of the other towns. Crewed charters of yachts up to 30 meters accommodating larger groups are also available. Some visitors to New Zealand on tight schedules choose to day sail and worthwhile visits to the offshore islands can be accomplished without a live aboard experience. Perhaps a visit to New Zealand is already on your list. Adding a sailing excursion in the waters of The Bay of Islands might just be the piece that’s missing from making this the dream holiday of your lifetime. Add this to your list today and start planning the details now.

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