New Zealand Yacht Charter Guide

Boasting extensive coastlines, diverse natural landscapes and untouched native forests, the two islands of New Zealand are perfect adventure cruising grounds. North Island is home to Auckland, aka “City of Sails,” where fine restaurants and shops abound. The capital of Wellington hosts numerous galleries and museums, while the Bay of Islands is a subtropical maritime park with an abundance of marine life. Alternatively, South Island guarantees flawless sailing conditions, restful retreats ashore and great sporting opportunities for the adventurous charterer. Home to Queenstown —  the country’s adventure capital — and Marlborough Sounds, it promises idyllic cruising with a backdrop of glorious mountain landscapes.

The majority of New Zealand’s landmass is south of Auckland, but the northern parts should not be missed. The landscape is dotted with subtropical forests, beaches and historic settlements that will have you in awe. The Bay of Islands is an idyllic spot for watersports and big-game fishing. Further south you’ll enjoy the clear waters, fjords and coves along Marlborough Sounds, which offer stunning anchorages. While the scenery alone of South Island is worth traveling to see – some of the most spectacular cruising grounds in the world can be found around the fjords of Milford Sound.