About this tour
When Mia from our BugBitten team sailed out on GUNGHA II, a proper 65-foot ocean-going yacht, it was the kind of day that reminds you why coastal New Zealand is special. This is a casual, crew-inclusive sailing trip from Paihia — you can help trim sails or just watch the bay roll past — with snorkelling stops, wildlife spotting, and a solid lunch thrown in. Six hours total, departing at 10 am, back by four. Russell transfers are sorted, and at $175 all-in, it felt like genuine value for a full day on the water.
Highlights
- Proper ocean yacht, not a tour boat — crew actually live and sail year-round
- Snorkel stops at island anchorages with masks and snorkels provided
- Option to help sail or completely switch off — your call
- Penguins and seabirds spotted regularly in loose, playful groups
- Fresh lunch and morning snacks included; hot outdoor shower onboard
- Russell transfers included if you're staying across the water
- Crew happy to teach sailing skills if you're keen to learn
What to expect
The day starts at Paihia at 10 am with a briefing and morning coffee while the crew prepped the boat. We motored out of the harbour and raised sails once in clear water — the bay opens up nicely and the wind was cooperative. The pace is relaxed; nobody's rushing. Mia joined in with some sail trimming for kicks, but most passengers just reclined on deck with a book or watched the water. The crew steered toward a sheltered anchorage where we dropped in for snorkelling; visibility was decent, and the guides pointed out fish, but it's not a coral-garden situation — it's temperate New Zealand marine life. Back on deck, we stripped off our wetsuits in the hot outdoor shower (bring your own towel), then ate fresh sandwiches and fruit while the yacht drifted or sailed gently depending on conditions. Return was around 4 pm, giving you the rest of the afternoon free.
What travellers say
- Crew genuinely experienced sailors, not just guides playing captain
- Snorkelling included without extra fees or hard sell
- Choice to sail actively or relax fully — suits different moods
- Russell transfers remove transport friction for Bay visitors
- Fresh lunch and snacks included; no overpriced extras
- Marine life sightings frequent enough to feel worthwhile
- Open ocean means motion sickness is a real possibility for some
- Snorkelling is temperate NZ marine life, not tropical clarity
- Not suitable for spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health
Themes summarised by our team from public information about this tour. Verify specifics on the operator's page before booking.
Good to know
This crew aren't theatre; they've actually lived and sailed across the Pacific, and it shows. The yacht is substantial and well-run. You get genuine sailing time, not a scenic float, and snorkelling gear is thrown in without upsell. Lunch is solid and fresh. Russell transfers take the logistics stress out.
Motion sickness is a real risk on the open water — bring sea-bands or tablets if you're prone. The snorkelling isn't tropical-tier, so adjust your expectations. The boat isn't suitable if you have spinal injuries or serious heart conditions (the crew will ask). You'll be in the sun for hours, so sunscreen is non-negotiable. The outdoor shower is hot but semi-public, so pack a towel and embrace it. Group size varies daily, so it's not intimate, but rarely crowded either. Early departure suits early risers best. Peak season (Dec–Feb) books out, so book ahead.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.