
Phantom Charters – Day Sailing in the Bay of Islands
Escape to New Zealand’s sailing paradise with Phantom Charters in the Bay of Islands. Enjoy island stopovers, snorkeling, and a delicious lunch included.
Updated” 26 th February 2026
Paihia is the main gateway to the Bay of Islands in Northland and one of New Zealand’s most popular coastal holiday towns. Known for its waterfront setting and departure wharf, Paihia is the starting point for Hole in the Rock cruises, dolphin watching tours, sailing charters and island adventures.
Located opposite Russell and just minutes from the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Paihia blends marine experiences with beaches, walking tracks and family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or planning a longer stay, Paihia is the ideal base for exploring the Bay of Islands.
Fringed by calm bays and more than 140 subtropical islands, Paihia is the main gateway to the Bay of Islands in Northland. With its central waterfront location and departure wharf, Paihia is the easiest base for Hole in the Rock cruises, dolphin watching tours, island adventures and sailing charters.
Mornings can start on the Paihia waterfront or a short native bush walk before heading out to sheltered coves and island beaches. Marine wildlife is common in the Bay of Islands, with dolphins frequently seen and, in season, orca passing through the area.
On land, New Zealand’s history comes into focus at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, just minutes from town. Across the water, Russell offers heritage streets and panoramic views from Flagstaff Hill. Nearby highlights include Haruru Falls after rain, the walking tracks on Urupukapuka Island and Cape Brett, home to Motukokako, the famous Hole in the Rock.
Paihia Wharf is the departure point for many of the Bay of Islands’ most popular marine experiences. Join a Hole in the Rock cruise through Motukokako, take a dolphin and wildlife tour among the islands, or spend the day sailing, kayaking or fishing in sheltered waters. Half-day and full-day cruises operate year-round, offering island stopovers, swim opportunities and close-up views of marine life in one of New Zealand’s most scenic coastal regions.
Haruru Falls walks, the Paihia coastal walkway and the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds are all within easy reach. Coach tours to Cape Reinga depart daily from Paihia, travelling via Ninety Mile Beach, Te Paki sand dunes and the iconic lighthouse at New Zealand’s northernmost point. Visitors can also take the short ferry ride to Russell’s historic waterfront township.
For a different perspective, scenic helicopter and fixed-wing flights lift off from Paihia and nearby airfields, revealing the full sweep of the Bay of Islands and its 140-plus islands. Options range from short coastal scenic flights to fly/drive experiences to Cape Reinga, combining aerial views with guided ground tours. These flights showcase the dramatic coastline, remote beaches and turquoise waters that make the region one of New Zealand’s most photographed destinations.

Escape to New Zealand’s sailing paradise with Phantom Charters in the Bay of Islands. Enjoy island stopovers, snorkeling, and a delicious lunch included.

Bay of Islands day sailing trips from Paihia & Russell. Compare yacht charters, catamarans & small-group cruises with scenic island visits and lunch options.

Spot dolphins and whales on a Bay of Islands Dolphin Eco Cruise with guided commentary and an island stop at Otehei Bay. Departs Paihia and Russell.

Although the Bay of Islands might be renowned for the winterless north and its beautiful sunny days, unfortunately it does rain occasionally

Salt Air provide unique scenic flights by plane or helicopter taking in the panoramic scenery of Northland’s coastline & its many remote islands.

Dive the Rainbow Warrior or Canterbury one of the world’s premier wreck dives, and which truly is the ‘Jewel of the North’

Tango Jet Ski’s for hire to ride around the bay or adventurous guided tours through the Bay of Islands to the famous Hole in the Rock,

sail out into these sparkling waters aboard Vigilant and discover one of the most renowned sailing areas in New Zealand,

Paihia, Bay of Islands 18 Hole Golf course with the most panoramic sea and island views of any other golf course in New Zealand

Discover Kaleo, the home of stylish shirts & casual wear for men & women. Experience “art that you wear” with our unique New Zealand designs & screen printing.

Immerse yourself in 16 natural hot springs in Northland’s geothermal oasis. Relax, heal, and connect with nature and Maori culture.

Experience magical 1 or 2-hour horse riding treks in Paihia, Bay of Islands, with stunning views and a journey through nature’s beauty. Perfect for all levels!

Ride the fastest boat to the Hole in the Rock from Paihia. Feel the speed, spot marine life and experience this thrilling Bay of Islands ocean adventure.

Bay of Islands Mullarkey Personalised Tours providing small group tours from the Bay of Islands around the Kerikeri Vineyards

Discover Bay of Islands magic on our half-day tour! Explore glow worm caves, marvel at Hundertwasser Toilets, and stand in awe of ancient kauri forests.

Urupukapuka Island ferry from Paihia and Russell to Otehei Bay. Return services available daily for walking, swimming, kayaking and relaxing on the beach.

Fullers Original Cream Trip Cruise Bay of Islands: Explore the iconic mail route, visit the ‘Hole in the Rock,’ and enjoy a full-day scenic adventure.

Bay of islands Puketi Guided Kauri Forest Walks. Nature walks half & full day tours. Experience Puketi Forest night walks, bird song & nocturnal wildlife

Jump aboard ‘She’s a Lady’ for a day’s sailing adventure in the beautiful & renowned Bay of Islands, sailing amidst the 144 islands.

Free things to do in Paihia: waterfront walks, Te Tii Bay, Opua Forest lookout, the Paihia–Opua coastal track, Haruru Falls and easy local heritage stops.

We have extensive local knowledge and offer various tour options for visiting local attractions to suit all ages and interests.

Sail the Bay of Islands with Bayscapes Charters aboard Hibiscus Star. Island stops, swimming, snorkelling, paddleboarding, lunch. Day & private charters.

Save 10% on Cape Reinga bus tours from Paihia. Explore 90 Mile Beach, Cape Reinga Lighthouse, sandboarding and coastal scenery on a full-day Far North adventure.

Explore Northland’s Twin Coast on multi-day e-bike and hiking tours. Discover scenic trails, Maori heritage, and hidden gems with Northland Experiences.

Experience 5-Star Luxury on Silver Wave Yacht Bay of Islands with Silver Wave. Our 5-star 45-foot yacht offers personalised service, activities, and stunning views.

Experience The Rock Overnight Cruise in the Bay of Islands. 22 hours of action-packed adventure or pure relaxation with kayaking, snorkeling, and more!

Sail the R. Tucker Thompson tall ship in the Bay of Islands. Departing Russell, choose a hands-on day sailing trip or relaxed sunset cruise. Book online.

catering to a maximum of 20 guests allows us to “escape the crowds” enabling us to take you to the most secluded and unfrequented beaches

Bay of Islands Hole in the Rock cruise with Cape Brett, Cathedral Cave, dolphins, a buffet lunch & an island stop at Otehei Bay. Top-rated Discover the Bay tour.

Hire quality mountain bikes at Waitangi Mountain Bike Park in the Bay of Islands. Enjoy graded trails for families, beginners and experienced riders year-round.

At Days Out Fishing Charters our aim is to make your fishing adventure and stay in the bay of islands a fishing experience you will remember.

Experience dBarefoot Sailing Adventures offers small-group catamaran day trips from Paihia. Explore Bay of Islands islands, swim, relax and enjoy hands-on sailing.

Bay of Islands cruise to the Hole in the Rock from Paihia or Russell. Dolphin viewing, visit Urupukapuka Island & Cape Brett coastline. Save 10% online.

Mullarkey Tours offer a unique off the tourist wine trail tasting experience through a selection of the vineyards of Kerikeri

Thunder Trike Bike Tours in Paihia, Bay of Islands. Ride a custom-built V8 350 Chevy Trike on a thrilling motorcycle tour of the Bay’s stunning landscapes

Twin Coast Cycle Trail. This is the perfect day trip for those wanting to enjoy the rich nature and history of the Far North at a leisurely pace

Compare the top 7 Hole in the Rock tours in the Bay of Islands! Cruises, jet boat rides, and scenic flights—find your perfect adventure & book today.

Feel the thrill on the Bay of Islands’ fastest jet boat ride. 30 minutes of 360° spins, power stops, and stunning scenery—departing daily from Paihia Wharf.

Discover Russell on a one-hour guided mini bus tour with local commentary, historic highlights and scenic viewpoints overlooking the Bay of Islands.
Paihia offers plenty of free ways to enjoy the Bay of Islands. Walk the waterfront from Paihia Beach to Te Tii, explore native bush tracks near Haruru Falls, or take the coastal walkway with views across to Russell. The nearby Waitangi Treaty Grounds also offer walking access around the historic site, even if you don’t enter the museum. Free things To Do In Paihia, Bay of islands
Paihia’s central location makes it the ideal base for exploring Northland. A short ferry ride takes you to Russell’s historic waterfront, while a 20-minute drive leads to Kerikeri’s Stone Store, Mission House and boutique vineyards. Full-day coach tours to Cape Reinga depart daily from Paihia, travelling via Ninety Mile Beach and Te Paki sand dunes to the famous lighthouse at New Zealand’s northernmost point.
With its central departure wharf, relaxed waterfront atmosphere and wide range of tours, Paihia remains the most convenient base for experiencing the Bay of Islands. Visitors can combine marine adventures, cultural heritage and scenic landscapes without needing to change towns.
Got questions about timings, starting points, ferries or what to bring? You’re not the only one. We’ve pulled together clear, straight-to-the-point answers so you can plan with confidence and spend more time enjoying Paihia and the bay.
From “where does this walk start?” to “how long should we allow?” and “what happens if the weather turns,” this FAQ covers the essentials—routes, tides, parking, family-friendly options, accessibility notes, and simple packing tips. Skim the questions that matter to you, then build your day with the ideas above.