Find the best boat tours and cruising adventures, sailing trips, saltwater fishing charters, scenic cruises, river cruising, small and large boat trips and ferries throughout New Zealand. Explore New Zealand’s 15,000kms of coastline and its rivers and lakes with scenic boat cruises with friends and family! These are the top sail trips and cruises in New Zealand.
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Cruises, Sailing and Water Tours
Top Attractions
Affinity Cruises
We take you further and get you closer than the larger vessels. Our smaller size ......
Ernest Kemp Cruises
Take a relaxing boat trip aboard Ernest Kemp. One of the world’s largest fresh ......
Ocean Adventure
Experience the thrill of Ocean Adventure - the fastest boat to the Hole in the R ......
Glass Bottom Boat Tou...
Check out the Hole in the Rock and the Fish through the Glass Bottom at Otehei B ......
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Evening Champagne Cruise
Te Anau, Fiordland
Make your way down to Te Anau’s historic wharf, and step aboard an elegant vessel on this 1.5-hour champagne cruise. P ...
100% Pure NZ - Raft the Kaituna River - Grade 5
Rotorua
Experience the thrill of rafting through steep native bush canyons in Rotorua. Conquer 14 rapids and 3 waterfalls, inclu ...
Discover the Bay - Hole in the Rock
Paihia, Northland
Discover the spectacular scenery, captivating wildlife and rich history of this New Zealand paradise on our quintessenti ...
Bay Cruise
Te Anau, Fiordland
Enjoy the million dollar views from Lake Te Anau on our 1 hour Bay Cruise as Peter tells you about the history of this a ...
3 HOUR SHARED CHARTER
Queenstown
A lot can happen in three hours… and joining a small group on this charter, fishing alongside seasoned fishermen, will ...
Mou Waho Island Cruise & Nature Walk
Wanaka
Combine the luxury of a big boat cruise through the outstanding mountain scenery of Lake Wanaka with a guided nature wal ...
Bay of Islands Day Cruise
Paihia, Northland
Relax in comfort as we sail through the Bay of Islands and stop off in one of its many idyllic islands. Enjoy lunch aboa ...
Lunchtime cruise. Fish & Chips optional
Hamilton & Waikato
Come enjoy complimentary light refreshments or treat yourself to some fish & chips from Raglan Fish. Set off from ...
Kaituna River Rafting
Rotorua
Join the Original Kaituna Rafting Company for an unbeatable grade 5 white-water experience on one of New Zealand's most ...
Seafood Odyssea Cruise
Picton, Marlborough
Relax and enjoy the stunning Marlborough Sounds with the exclusive afternoon Seafood Odyssea Cruise, departing Picton. ...
Glass bottom boat Tour
North Auckland, Auckland
EXPERIENCE GOAT ISLAND WITH OUR GLASS BOTTOM BOAT TOUR Located in Leigh, north of Auckland, our Glass Bottom Boat opera ...
Wild Dolphin Encounter
Tauranga, Bay Of Plenty
Experience the trip of a lifetime on the on the Bay of Plenty's premier dolphin eco-tour. Dolphin Seafaris provide an or ...
Dolphin & Wildlife Eco Cruise
Tauranga, Bay Of Plenty
Watch dolphins swimming up close as you explore our big blue backyard! Enjoying an amazing half-day cruise along the pri ...
Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Tour, from Auckland
Downtown Auckland, Auckland
Our Hobbiton & Waitomo small group, fully-guided day trip combines two of the best attractions in the North Island t ...
Jetski fun and thrill on your scenic ride in Auckland
Hauraki Gulf, Auckland
Auckland's Hauraki Gulf offers a stunning scenery for your day out on the water and our Jetskis are a great way to get y ...
Best Abel Tasman Day tour
Abel Tasman
A small group personalized 6 hour daytrip, exploring the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park's coastline aboard a comfor ...
The Sea Kayak Excursion
Hamilton & Waikato
Explore New Zealand's ancient coastline on this boutique guided sea kayak excursion. Enjoy hot drinks and decadent treat ...
Heli Siberia Max
Wanaka
Cruise over the tops of the Southern Alps to land in the remote Siberia Valley and rendezvous with Wilkin River Jets at ...
Mokai Canyon - 3 day river rafting holiday, family friendly
Whanganui
A 3 day river holiday, suitable for all the family. Tear the children away from the TV and head off for 3-days of rivers ...
Discovery Cruise
Te Anau, Fiordland
Join Peter & Cruise Te Anau for a boutique 3 hour Discovery Cruise to the beautiful and tranquil South Fiord of Lake ...
Premium Milford Sound Tour Including Cruise, Lunch & Return Flight
Queenstown
Our small group, fully-guided day trip combines the amazing journey to Milford Sound with a boutique Milford Sound Cruis ...
Sunset Cruise. Fish & Chips optional
Hamilton & Waikato
Sunset Cruise with Option to order Fish n Chips for an additional $15. Bookings essential 3 hours prior to departure oth ...
Scenic Cruise Guided Walk
Te Anau, Fiordland
Cross the South Fiord taking in all its majestic beauty and allow us to show you some of the most untouched wilderness i ...
Dolphin Encounter - Swim with or watch Kaikoura's Dusky Dolphins
Kaikoura, Canterbury
Kaikoura is one of the best places in the world to both view and swim with wild dusky dolphins. With a very high succes ...
Jetboat Ride Hanmer Springs
Hanmer Springs, Canterbury
Join us for an exciting, thrilling and adrenaline pumping Jetboat ride on the Waiau River. This is our most popular trip ...
Lakeland Jet Boat
Wanaka
Experience one of NewZealand’s most iconic adventure activities in some of the world greatest scenery. Marvel at the p ...
Tawanui Farm Energy Jet
Kaikoura, Canterbury
We are a small family owned business that run jet boating, farms tours and accommodation off our 320ha sheep and beef fa ...
Sustainable sailing to the Maori Rock Carvings.
Taupo
Step aboard, explore Lake Taupō, and discover its natural beauty and hidden wonders with an eco-friendly cruise with Sa ...
Milford Sound Heli-Cruise-Heli
Queenstown
The ultimate way to experience Milford Sound and Fiordland. Enjoy spectacular aerial views as we fly from Glenorchy to M ...
3 HOUR PRIVATE CHARTER
Queenstown
Excellent for corporate events and team building! Book a private fishing charter for special bonding time or for your ne ...
Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Tour
Queenstown
Join Pure Milford for all all inclusive day tour to magical Milford Sound from Queenstown or Te Anau. Enjoy informative ...
Silent electric boat hire on the Kerikeri River, Bay of Islands
Bay Of Islands, Northland
Explore the beautiful Kerikeri river on a silent electric boat. No boating experience required!
Albatross Encounter
Kaikoura, Canterbury
Kaikoura is renowned worldwide as a seabird hot spot and is one of the best places in the world to view albatross! Alba ...
Single Kayak Hire
Wanaka
Immerse yourself in Lake Wanaka with the freedom to explore at your own pace on a kayak or paddle board. Enjoy the calm ...
Lodge to Lodge Luxury 2 Day Rafting Trip on the Rangitikei River
Whanganui
Looking for a multi-day river trip with a touch of luxury? Explore a beautiful section of the Rangitikei river without c ...
Tikapa Moana Whale & Dolphin Wildlife Cruise
Hauraki Gulf, Auckland
Explore the Hauraki Gulf with us and discover the abundant marine wildlife, iconic landscape and cultural footprint of T ...
Nomad Safaris combos - Dart River Jet I Shotover Jet I Earnslaw Burn Heli-Hobbit
Queenstown
Nomad Safaris is proud to partner with select operators to bring you a variety of unique experiences. These specially d ...
Cathedral Cove Boat Tour - Cruise
Whitianga, Coromandel
Cathedral Cove exclusive small group tours. More stops, Close-ups & Inside Small cave experiences, including offshor ...
Vigilant Yacht Charters - Day Sailing Bay of Islands
Russell, Northland
The Bay of Islands is an ideal sailing playground. Step on board our stunning 42ft classic cutter rig yacht to experienc ...
Tauranga Harbour Cruise
Mount Maunganui, Bay Of Plenty
Join the friendly crew on the iconic 70 year old Kewpie shes been lovingly restored and is Tauranga's original harbour c ...
Jet Ski Tour
Wanaka
Enjoy a jet ski tour exploring all the stunning bays, islands and alpine scenery showcasing the beauty Lake Wanaka has t ...
Double Kayak Hire
Wanaka
Immerse yourself in Lake Wanaka with the freedom to explore at your own pace on a kayak or paddle board. Enjoy the calm ...
Auckland Harbour Dinner Cruise
Downtown Auckland, Auckland
A unique opportunity to dine on Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour under sail on this 2.5 hour experience.
Waiatoto River Safari
Haast, West Coast
Embark on the only jet boat tour in New Zealand that takes you from the Ocean to the Alps within a UNESCO World Heritage ...
Auckland Bioluminescence Kayak Tour
Northern Bays, Auckland
Set off on an enchanting adventure with Social Nature Movement's bioluminescence kayak tour in Auckland. As night descen ...
Cathedral Cove Boat Tour - Departs Hahei
Whitianga, Coromandel
Embark on an extraordinary journey through Hahei’s ancient volcanic coastline, where awe-inspiring geography and Māor ...
Franz Josef Wilderness Tours
Franz Josef, West Coast
Join us for a Kayak or Scenic Cruise on Lake Mapourika taking in the panoramic views of the Southern Alps, Glaciers, and ...
Seal Kayak Tour
Kaikoura, Canterbury
Seal Kayak Kaikoura is the first kayak tour of its kind in New Zealand that allows you to either pedal or paddle. You� ...
Floatplane Crater Lakes Flight Plus Hotpools
Rotorua
Enjoy spectacular views of our hidden lakes district, distant volcanoes and local geothermal activity. Landing on the la ...
Carino wildlife cruises - Island & Wildlife day Cruise
Bay Of Islands, Northland
Come sailing with us and discover the stunning scenery and amazing wildlife of the beautiful bay of islands. Surround ...
America's Cup Sailing Experience
Downtown Auckland, Auckland
Join our crew sailing this authentic America's Cup Yacht on Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour with this 2 hour experience.
Mount Tarawera/Waimangu Volcanic Valley Plus Hotpools
Rotorua
Fly over the site of the largest eruption in New Zealand’s living memory, Mount Tarawera, and gain an appreciation of ...
Stand Up Paddle Adventure
Tauranga, Bay Of Plenty
Come and journey with us on a SUP Adventure to explore and connect with our moana (sea) and whenua (land).
Eco Sailing Adventure ex Waiheke
Hauraki Gulf, Auckland
Discover the stunning natural environment of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park aboard our 41-foot sailing catamaran. You’ll ...
Mauao Walk and Workshop
Mount Maunganui, Bay Of Plenty
Our Mauao Walk and Workshop allows you to experience cultural history and learn the environmental significance of our an ...
Mount Tarawera/Waimangu Thermal Valley – ‘Eruption Trail Tour’
Rotorua
Departing our City Lakefront pier experience the thrill of a floatplane take off, before climbing above Mokoia Island on ...
Private Day Charter
Bay Of Islands, Northland
The ultimate private yacht adventure in the Bay of Islands on Silverwave luxury day cruise equipped with a full assortme ...
Sledge the Kaituna River - Grade 3
Rotorua
Sledge the Grade 3 Kaituna River for an exhilarating Rotorua adventure. Navigate rapids, enjoy stunning native scenery, ...
Milford Sound Cruise
Milford Sound, Fiordland
Join Pure Milford for the scenic cruise of a lifetime. Our famously friendly skipper and crew will welcome you aboard t ...
Wild Hills Off Road Safari
Wanaka
Words fail to describe how utterly spectacular this 4WD adventure through West Wanaka High Country Station is. Wild and ...
Parasailing
Wanaka
Fly high above the beautiful Lake Wanaka with Wanaka Parasailing on either a single, or a tandem flight. This is one ...
Milford Sound Fly-Cruise-Fly
Queenstown
Our most popular scenic flight option, this package lets you experience the sheer scale and staggering beauty of the sou ...
The Riverhead Tavern Kayak Tour in Auckland
West Auckland, Auckland
Discover the Riverhead Tavern, a charming spot on the serene Waitemata River, ideal for kayaking and waterfront dining. ...
Self-Guided Milford Track Day Walk - Milford Sound
Milford Sound, Fiordland
Experience the Milford Track, one of New Zealand’s most famous hiking trails!
Half Day, Grade 5 Rafting on the Rangitikei River
Whanganui
Our grade 5, white water rafting trip is often recognised as one of the best half day trips in the world (recently voted ...
Tarawera Falls Volcanic Heli Hike
Rotorua
From lofty volcanic heights, to a magical waterfall, this extraordinary day out showcases a variety of scenery not found ...
Full Monty Tour - Cathedral Cove Boat Tour
Whitianga, Coromandel
Ocean Leopard Tours is based in beautiful Whitianga, Coromandel. Our scenic boat tour showcases Mercury Bay’s stunning ...
Auckland Harbour Sailing Cruise
Downtown Auckland, Auckland
Sail where the wind takes us and take in Auckland’s city highlights on our relaxed 1.5 hour harbour sailing experience ...
Exclusive Sailing Charter ex Waiheke
Hauraki Gulf, Auckland
Charter our 41-foot catamaran for a day and set sail on your own adventure. Most areas of the Hauraki Gulf are within ea ...
Hydro Attack Semi-submersible Shark Ride
Queenstown
Get ready for a thrilling adventure in the shark machine! Launching from our central Queenstown location, we'll embark o ...
Stevensons Is Cruise & Nature Walk
Wanaka
Take a luxury catamaran to discover Stevensons Island on Lake Wanaka with a 2 hour small group cruise and an optional na ...
Waitomo Caves & Rotorua including Te Puia Tour
Downtown Auckland, Auckland
Our Waitomo Caves & Rotorua fully guided day trip combines nature, Māori culture and two of the top attractions in ...
Parasailing in the Bay of Islands
Bay Of Islands, Northland
New Zealand's highest parasailing at 1300ft over the stunning Bay of Islands. We offer Single, Tandem and Triple fligh ...
Taupo Sailing Adventures
Taupo
Experience the best way to explore Lake Taupo and choose the most environmentally friendly way to travel – with a scen ...
Cathedral Cove Glass Bottom Boat
Whitianga, Coromandel
Approximately 2hrs scenic and marine viewing tour. Visit Cathedral Cove, sea caves and volcanic rock formations. Look th ...
Bay of Islands Day Tour
Downtown Auckland, Auckland
Discover the Bay of Islands on a full-day tour from Auckland. Enjoy a scenic drive, visit Whangarei Waterfalls, and emba ...
4.5hr // Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour
Bay Of Islands, Northland
Embark on a captivating 4.5-hour cruise and island tour in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand, where you'll sail amidst stu ...
Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves - One Way Tour
Downtown Auckland, Auckland
One day tour from Auckland to the beautiful Waitomo Glowworm Caves and geothermal wonderland of Rotorua (One way trip).
Happy Hour Cruise
Wanaka
Relax with a glass of local wine or beer and bask in the evening light on a 1-hour happy hour cruise on Lake Wanaka. Enj ...
Scenic Cruise to the famous Ngātoroirangi Māori Rock Carvings
Taupo
Chris Jolly Outdoors has been looking after you for 40 years and that continues during COVID-19. Our ability to socially ...
Family Adventures Rafting
Queenstown
Family Adventures specialise in soft adventure trips, rafting the upper reaches of the famous Shotover River near Queens ...
Days Out Fishing Charters Bay of Islands
Bay Of Islands, Northland
Our aim is to make your fishing adventure and stay in the bay of islands an experience you will remember.rnWithin 5 mile ...
Sea Cave Adventures Whitianga
Whitianga, Coromandel
Covering over 25km of iconic Coromandel hotspots between Whitianga and Hot Water Beach, this trip is rich in Maori histo ...
Nomad Safaris - Queenstown
Queenstown
Experience New Zealand’s most spectacular quad bike rides, off road 4WD adventures, guided walks for all abilities inc ...
Milford Sound Boutique Small Boat Cruise
Milford Sound, Fiordland
Join this award-winning small family owned & operated business for the cruise of a lifetime. Experience Milford Soun ...
Limestone Express Kayak Tour
Hamilton & Waikato
This boutique guided tour takes you straight into the heart of the famous Limestone Coast for an exciting and intimate e ...
Waitomo Glow Worm Caves & Te Puia - Rotorua's Geothermal Valley
Downtown Auckland, Auckland
Experience the best of Rotorua's geothermal wonders and Waitomo Glowworm Caves in one incredible day trip from Auckland. ...
Super Cruise Combo - The Cream Trip including Hole in the Rock
Paihia, Northland
See it all and do it all on our super cruise combo combining the best of the The Cream Trip and the Hole in the Rock Cru ...
Tauranga Scenic Harbor Cruise
Tauranga, Bay Of Plenty
Looking for things to do in Tauranga? Bay Explorer has several years experience showcasing the Tauranga Harbour. Join ou ...
Milford Sound Fly/Nature Cruise/Fly
Queenstown
Milford Sound is an area of extraordinary beauty. It offers a majestic fiord, dramatic and awe inspiring scenery and pro ...
Sundowner Evening Sailing Cruise
Bay Of Islands, Northland
Fancy an evening cruise? Sail the inner area of the Bay of Islands, making the most of our beautiful sea breeze on o ...
Browns Island (Motukorea) Sea Kayak Tour
Downtown Auckland, Auckland
Embark on a beginner-friendly, four-hour sea kayak adventure from St Heliers beach to Browns Island (Motukorea). Paddle ...
Kahu Kayaks Guided Tours
Abel Tasman
Kahu Kayaks' guided kayaking tours in the Abel Tasman offer a taste of adventure, serenity by the bucket load and more s ...
White Island/ Mount Tarawera 'Volcanic Extremes' Floatplane Adventure
Rotorua
Fly over New Zealand’s only permanently active offshore volcano, White Island and enjoy amazing aerial views of the is ...
Cathedral Cove Boat Tour - Thrills
Whitianga, Coromandel
Hang on for a white knuckled adrenaline experience, Cave Cruzer takes your thrills & excitement seriously. Cathedral ...
Kepler Track Day Walk - Boat Transfers
Te Anau, Fiordland
Experience the best of Te Anau’s day walks with the Kepler Water Taxi
Lochmara Day Trips
Queen Charlotte Sound, Marlborough
Cruise to Lochmara, one of Marlborough's most popular destinations, taking in the surrounding beautiful Queen Charlotte ...
Frequently Asked Questions about Cruises, Sailing and Water Tours Activities
1. Where is the best sailing in New Zealand?
The North Island offers many amazing sailing adventures lasting all day, or only a few hours. When sailing in the North Island, it is not uncommon to be greeted by dolphins or other familiar wildlife!
2. Where is the best cruises in New Zealand?
Milford Sound in fiordland is a stunning area for a cruise at any time of the year.
3. What is the best month to cruise New Zealand?
December, January and Feburary is when New Zealand is at its peak. It is the summer months that are the hottest and nicst time to be out on the water.
Cruises, Sailing, and Water Tours to See and Do in New Zealand
New Zealand is abundant with a vast range of water activities. There's no better way to truly appreciate the beautiful New Zealand coastline than by exploring it. Check out See and Do New Zealand for the best water activities, from rafting in caves and rivers to cruises and leisure sailing!
The best places for Cruises, Sailing, and Water Tours in New Zealand
Milford sound is located in Fiordland and offers fantastic views that are hard to look away from. Some cruises also provide heli tours, waterfalls, coach tours and kayaking!
If you're on the North Island, then there are many days of sailing trips to take that are both chilled-out and adventurous!
If you're looking for a more adventurous alternative to sailing and cruises, then check out these activities like parasailing and jet boating!
