Island Hopper Day Cruise - sailing to wildlife sanctuary island - 6 hr cruise

We were in Paihia for three days and this was the highlight of our visit. It was a beautiful day for sailing. We left Paihia sailing for an island and beach whose names I forget. As we sailed, Mike, our skipper talked about the history of the area as well as navigation techniques of the early inhabitants of the area. A good part of the journey was spent quietly admiring the natural beauty of the bay. Once we arrived to the island we snorkeled, hiked over the hill to the other side of the island (about half a mile) and enjoyed our lunches. Our return trip went a little faster because the wind had picked up, but Mike deviated course a bit so we could get a closer look at some of the islands we were passing. Overall a very pleasant and relaxing trip. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush this probably isn’t the trip for you. We loved it and we highly recommend it.

Our ship was diverted because of an incoming weather system, and the Bay of Islands stop was cancelled. We had no way to reach the meeting point for this excursion. The operator chose not to refund the booking even though the port was not accessible. Cruise travellers should be aware that there is no flexibility if a ship itinerary changes due to safety diversions.

A great leisurely day sailing/motoring across the bay of islands. We were lucky with the weather although more wind would have been better.

Very friendly and helpful staff. Really nice lunch and coffee and cold drinks provided. Mike and Frejtke were great hosts and pleasant

Very great trip to a beautiful bay on one of the offshore islands. (We stayed at French Bay on the island of Motorua) The crew (Michael and Frika) were cool, competent and very friendly. All in all, it was an all-round recommended excursion.

Our day with Barefoot sailing adventures was a clear highlight of our week in New Zealand. Luke was a charismatic and knowledgeable captain, who made us feel adventurous yet safe for the duration of our gorgeous sail. We were treated to snorkeling, paddle boarding and swimming in the crystal clear turquoise waters that the Bay of Islands are blessed with. And we learned a lot about its history too. We just never wanted the day to end. 100% recommend!! ☺️ ⛵️ 🤿 🏝️

This is the way to see the Bay of Islands in all its glory. Luke and Breeze looked after us well all day with knowledgeable commentary, great sites and even a dolphin encounter thrown in for good measure. Highly recommended.

We had a nice day on the water between the islets. Everything was safe and quiet. The atmosphere was friendly.

Our experience on the island hopper day cruise was amazing! Captain Luke was well skilled and very knowledgeable. He went above and beyond to ensure we were comfortable and that the sail was enjoyable. The beanbag chairs were very comfortable and the lunch was great! I would highly recommend this tour.

We joined the boat on Paihia beach, settled into our bean bags on deck ready for the day. Luke, our skipper was knowledgeable, helpful and talked us through the day ahead. Once we made our way out, we had coffees and choccy bikkies and relaxed in the sunshine while Luke talked us through the history and biodiversity of the area. It’s clear how passionate Luke, his partner and their business is about the local area and the regeneration of the native plants and animals. We stopped on the island of Moturua, in Frenchman’s bay for snorkelling, paddle boarding, lunch and a walk up to the viewing point. After 2 hours of free time, we made our way back. The winds were in a favour and we sailed back to Paihia with a cold drink. Such a beautiful way to see this stunning part of NZ, highly recommend the Barefoot Sailing Adventures team