Where to Go Sailing in New Zealand
“A sailor is an artist whose medium is the wind.” Webb Chiles. All sailing quotes aside to set the mood… with more coastline than mainland USA, there’s so much to explore on New Zealand’s waters. Get a different perspective of the unreal scenery by quietly gliding along the water. Sailing options are plentiful for all levels and budget, so we backpackers can get a taste of the high life too! With that in mind, here are some of the most stunning places to go sailing in New Zealand.
If you are more into cruising than sailing, check out: 10 Stunning Backpacker Cruises in New Zealand. Or something a little more intense in 7 Places to Jet Boat in New Zealand.
1. Bay of Islands
There are 144 islands to be explored! In this region, you simply have to get out on the water. With any luck, you’ll encounter a dolphin pod. Plus, it’s a great place to take some snorkelling gear and soak up the sun in one of the sunniest regions in New Zealand. Book your trip with Barefoot Sailing Adventures (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor) or R. Tucker Thompson Sailing Trust (on Viator and Tripadvisor).
Location: North Island
© NZPocketGuide.com2. Lake Taupo
Do waves make your stomach turn? There’s the peaceful sailing option of Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake with Sail Barbary (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor) and Sail Fearless (on Viator and Tripadvisor). Be sure to see the Maori carvings on the rock face while you are there.
Location: North Island
© NZPocketGuide.com3. Auckland
It is, after all, the “City of Sails”. You have a wide selection of sailing from an intense America’s Cup Sailing tour (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor) to a relaxing harbour sailing cruise (on Viator and Tripadvisor). We recommend exploring more of Auckland’s waters, where you can get more info in Auckland Hauraki Gulf – Guide for Backpackers.
Location: North Island
© Ronnie Macdonald on Wikipedia4. Abel Tasman
Abel Tasman is made of crystal clear water and golden sand beaches; a paradise for anyone in need of a vacation. Tours often leave from Kaiteriteri with Abel Tasman Sailing Adventures. Find out more on Viator and Tripadvisor. Plus, see more activities nearby using the 10 Amazing Things to Do in the Abel Tasman National Park.
Location: South Island
© NZPocketGuide.com5. Akaroa
For wildlife encounters, vibrant blue waters and towering coastal cliffs formed by a volcanic crater, there’s lots to explore on a sailing cruise in Akaroa with Fox II. Check out the cruise on Viator and Tripadvisor. Additionally, find out more about this peninsula near Christchurch in The Complete Guide to Akaroa.
Location: South Island
© NZPocketGuide.comMore About Sailing in New Zealand
