Soak up the sun on Bay of Islands yacht charters
Warm, sunny weather, idyllic sandy beaches, cultural sites and scenic vistas - what more could you want from a yacht charter holiday? If this sounds like the perfect sailing break, consider booking a holiday in New Zealand's Bay of Islands.
The world-renowned cruising grounds is a 50-mile stretch of coastline found on the eastern section of the country's North Island and is dotted with more than 80 isles.
If you're looking for a stunning location for your next vacation on the water then the Bay of Islands will surely fit the bill, as the destination is known as a paradise-like spot rich in natural beauty.
Whether you're a sailing novice or experienced on the waves, you can book a holiday onboard a vessel in the Bay of Islands. Choose from yacht hire options like a bareboat break for accomplished sailors or a crewed yacht if you have little experience on the water or simply want to sit back and thoroughly relax.
Temperatures reach a balmy 23 degrees C on average during the summer and the water is warm, so you can rest assured that taking a dip in the ocean will be a pleasant experience. In fact, many people choose to head into the sea during a visit to the Bay of Islands as the location is such a great spot for exploring beneath the surface.
Strap on some snorkelling equipment and you can admire the underwater flora and fauna, while you might decide to venture further down with some scuba gear and take a look at the wreck of former Greenpeace ship, Rainbow Warrior.
If you'd rather not venture into the water, you can still take a look at the fascinating native wildlife, which includes blue penguins and dolphins. Make your way to the largest of the Cavalli Islands too, which is a nature reserve home to many species of bird.
The four remaining islands are also lovely spots to visit if you want to hike through lush green landscapes and enjoy some seclusion.
Basking in the sunshine might be one of the most important aspects of your holidays and the beaches to be found throughout the Bay of Islands are perfect places for sunning yourself.
The white stretches of sand to be found in Paihia are no exception, so be sure to pay a visit and you'll be awestruck by the area's natural beauty. Meanwhile, daredevils might want to try out some of the fun pastimes popular here, such as sea kayaking and parasailing.
As well as fun water sports and rich wildlife, the Bay of Islands also offers plenty to keep culture fans busy. A particular highlight if you'd like to find out more about the area is a trip to the town of Russell.
The popular spot was once visited by Captain Cook and houses memorabilia relating to the famous sailor in the settlement's museum, along with Maori artefacts.
If you fancy stretching your legs, why not do so along one of the three heritage paths here? A particularly good walk is along the route that takes you to the top of Flagstaff Hill, where you can admire some spectacular panoramic views of the islands around you.
To soak up some sun as you take in stunning landscapes, call in at Whangaroa Harbour during your yacht charter in the South Pacific. The marina is home to a restaurant where you can sample some tasty fish dishes, while the surrounding anchorages are tranquil and scenic. As you travel, gaze at the pretty hills clad in greenery and marvel at Rere Bay's picturesque waterfall, which rushes over rock faces and is well worth a snap or two if you have your camera to hand.
