Yacht Charter in New Zealand

You can find a myriad of yacht charter options in New Zealand, from catamarans for full-day yacht charter itineraries to superyachts that can accommodate a group of 30 for a one-week liveaboard; New Zealand won't disappoint. With different price points depending on many factors, a catamaran with five cabins and 138 feet in length can cost around $107,000 for a full week's rent. On the other hand, a sailing yacht with 5 cabins and a length of 170 feet can cost around $193,000 per week. And lastly, for a motor yacht that's 197 feet in length, a week's charter can cost around $375,000.

New Zealand is blessed with so much natural beauty and a beautiful coastline that spending time outdoors is but a natural habit for locals. One of the country's favorite pastimes is sailing, with hundreds of islands to explore, and coastline towns and cities that offer undeniable beauty and adventure. New Zealand's top yacht charter destinations are divided into two: the North and the South Island.

Let's begin with the North Island's top spots: the Bay of Islands and the capital city of Auckland. The Bay of Islands is recognized to be the top yacht charter destination in the country. With over 140 islands to explore, this North Island spot is teeming with adventure and relaxation at the same time. A maritime playground, the waters are rich in marine life, with dolphins swimming beside boats as they cruise through the waters being a common sight. There are also glorious beaches around the islands, rich history, and plenty of diving opportunities, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the boat as you cruise from one island to the next.

Auckland, the capital city of New Zealand, is also known as the "City of Sails." This world-class sailing destination is the location for many competitive sailing races, including the famous America's Cup. The city is also known as the jumping-off point to the famed Hauraki Gulf, which features over 500 sheltered anchorages, beaches, fishing spots, and islands with plenty to offer the most discerning traveler. Auckland is also the jumping-off point to Waiheke's island, famous for its wineries and art scene, as well as the Motuihe Channel, known for its excellent fishing grounds.

The South Island of New Zealand offers more rugged landscapes, more exciting adventures, and more activities. Abel Tasman, located at the very tip of South Island, offers crystal clear waters and golden sand beaches. It is also a National Park, which means its coastal paradise is virtually untouched, with fascinating geography and beautiful scenery. The Tonga Island Marine Reserve is also found here, a protected underwater environment perfect for snorkeling and diving.

And lastly, Marlborough Sounds is yet another one of New Zealand's most famous yacht charter destinations. One of the most incredible locations in the South Island, you can find sheltered bays and views of forested mountains from the water. With golden beaches, untouched natural scenery, and plenty of islands to explore, the Marlborough Sounds is a definite South Island visit.

Auckland is the top spot for luxury yacht charters in New Zealand, simply because the city is the capital and offers high-end shopping, a bustling nightlife, and marinas that provide world-class berths and amenities. The Silo Marina and the Westhaven Marina, located in Auckland, are two of the top marinas in New Zealand, offering hundreds of berths and luxury amenities.

The Bay of Islands is another top luxury yacht charter destination for being the country's yachting center. With marinas that offer excellent amenities and facilities and hundreds of safe anchorages, this destination truly creates one of the best luxury yacht holidays in the Southern Hemisphere.

And the last on our list is Whangarei Harbour, home to countless marinas and only 2 hours away from Auckland. The marinas are near the city's CBD, restaurants, resorts, and the Harbor itself offers excellent diving, game fishing, and famous cruising grounds. The area is also home to lakes, rivers, and swimming with dolphins are but a regular thing.

New Zealand is a beautiful South Pacific Island with so much to offer in yacht charter excursions. With islands to the north and the south, take your pick from a relaxing yacht charter adventure or an adventure-packed expedition with scuba diving, kite surfing, cliff jumping, and even bungee jumping added to your yacht charter itinerary.