New Zealand is truly the gift that keeps on giving. Not only are they famous for premium wine, unbelievable scenic beauties, but it’s also home to some incredible sailing destinations. The best park? It is all accessible to you year round, and only a short journey over the ditch. If you are looking to raise your sails in a country that will afford you different pockets of sailing havens, add these destinations to your sailing bucket list.
The Bay of Islands, Northland
There are few places in the world more beautiful than The Bay of Islands in New Zealand’s north. As the name suggests, The Bay of Islands is a stunning subtropical region known for its bountiful bays, varying in size and proximity to each other. If you are looking to set sail after you find catamarans for sale in New Zealand, start here. The Bay of Islands is made up of 144 islands and is the county’s most popular maritime parks. Whether it is a short sailing trip or a long one, these 144 islands will give you enough to look at! The expansive Bay sees thousands of tourists come to cruise, jet-ski, kayak or charter a catamaran for a day on deck.
Auckland
Auckland is quite literally translated to ‘the city of sails’, so it will come as no surprise that there are many places to sail’. It also boasts having more boats per capita than any other city in the world. So it stands to reason, that sailing is an area they are pretty comfortable with. In fact, there is so many different ways you can have fun on board on the water. You can enjoy a harbour cruise or get around on the classic yacht, with Auckland close to surrounding islands Waiheke and Rangitoto. During the warmer months, keep and eye out for the America’s Cup race boats. If you are sailing with a larger group or family, take some time off land to explore Auckland, New Zealand’s capital.
Marlborough Sounds
Marlborough Sounds can be found at the very tip of South Island. It needs to be seen to be believed. The landscape of the area has meant that many of the valleys have been drowned which leaves beautiful scenery and more space to sail. It’s also home to stunning islands, beaches, bays and coves – waiting for you to discover. You can sail around this area by boat cruise, catamaran, kayaking or ferry. There is so more to see and explore in this region, as well as the award-winning wine and seafood.
Abel Tasman National Park
The Abel Tasman National Park is a favourite for travellers seeking a land and water-based holiday in New Zealand’s. The gorgeous beaches and forested coastline present fun for the whole family. This destination is to be reached by boat or water taxi, and many boat folk spend time here as the views of the forested coastline and uniquely-colored water set a beautiful backdrop. In saying that, while this area is popular it is still far more secluded than any of the other sailing spots in New Zealand.
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There are so many stunning landmarks to be explored by boat, and beautiful waters that will get you where you need to go. Map out the best route of visiting each of these sites, and mix in some land time so that you can see even more New Zealand beauty and sample its famous cuisine and wine. Pay special attention to the time of year you are venturing, and what sort of temperatures you can expect. New Zealand experience much colder winters, so you don’t want to be hiding below board instead of sprawled on your boat.
