New Zealand Itinerary
Hailing from Alaska, Venturing Worldwide
Join us in New Zealand •
Join us in New Zealand •
December 2026 - February 2027
Having spent five months sailing a complete figure-eight around New Zealand last season, we discovered something unexpected: there was still so much left to explore. This season, we're returning to the North Island to linger rather than rush. From Whangārei we'll wind our way through the island-dotted waters of the Hauraki Gulf, revisit the wild beauty of Great Barrier Island, explore the Coromandel Peninsula and the Mercury Islands, and finish among the subtropical anchorages of the Bay of Islands. It's a season dedicated to hidden coves, coastal hikes, quiet anchorages, and discovering the places that first made us fall in love with New Zealand.
New Zealand ItinerarY
We’re currently shaping our itinerary for a second season in New Zealand. What follows is a working outline of the route ahead—an evolving journey guided by weather, local knowledge, and curiosity. Voyage legs will range from 5–10 days, If a particular stretch calls to you, we’d love to connect and begin planning your time aboard.
Exploring The North Island
DEC 23-30: Whangarei to Auckland (Trip full)
JAN 01-09: Auckland to Great Barrier Island (Trip Full)
JAN 11-19: Great Barrier Island to Mercury Islands/Coromandel Peninsula*
JAN 21-27: Mercury Islands/Coromandel Peninsula to Great Barrier Island*
JAN 29-Feb 5: Great Barrier Island to Bay of Islands (2 spots left)
Feb 08-16: Exploring Bay of Islands
Feb 22-Mar 13: Crossing to Tasmania
*Travel to The Mercury Islands and Coromandel Peninsula will be weather dependent. Should conditions require a change of plans, we'll ensure every guest has convenient transportation to their departure point.
Itinerary last updated: AUGUST 31, 2026
Great Barrier ISland
Great Barrier Island feels wonderfully removed from the modern world, with quiet settlements such as Tryphena, Port FitzRoy, and Claris scattered among forested hills and sheltered bays. Much of the island remains off-grid, creating a slower rhythm shaped by footpaths, winding roads, and life close to the sea.
Days here might include hiking to panoramic ridgelines, soaking in the natural hot springs at Kaitoke, or exploring remote beaches and anchorages by kayak or dinghy. From the protected waters of Smokehouse bay (complete with an outdoor bathtub!) to the sweeping sands of Medlands Beach, the island offers a rare blend of wilderness, community, and simple coastal living.
Getting there: Flights to/from Great Barrier Island (GBZ) via auckland on Barrier Air
Coromandel Peninsula & Mercury Islands
The Coromandel Peninsula is a lush, mountainous coastline where native forest descends toward golden beaches, turquoise coves, and small seaside towns such as Whitianga and Coromandel Town. Its eastern shores are known for places like Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach, while quieter bays and winding coastal roads reveal a more secluded side of the peninsula.
Just offshore, the Mercury Islands offer a wilder experience, with rugged headlands, clear water, rocky reefs, and remote anchorages scattered among the islands. Weather permitting, we hope to spend our days snorkeling, paddling, hiking, and discovering hidden corners far beyond the busier mainland coast.
Getting there: Flights To/from Whitianga (WTZ) via auckland
Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s most storied sailing regions, with more than 140 islands scattered across warm, sheltered waters. Coastal towns such as Russell, Paihia, and historic Kerikeri offer a lively contrast to the quiet beaches, protected coves, and island anchorages found just offshore.
The region is deeply connected to both Māori history and New Zealand’s maritime past, with nearby Waitangi holding particular cultural significance. Between visits ashore, we’ll explore by sail, kayak, and dinghy, seeking out secluded beaches, wildlife-rich waters, and a new bay to call home each evening.
Getting there: Flights To/from Kerikeri (KKE) via auckland, or via the intercity Bus system
GETTING TO NEW ZEALAND
Most international flights arrive at Auckland Airport (AKL) on New Zealand’s North Island. Direct routes are available from major U.S. cities with Air New Zealand and other major airlines, and flight times range from about 12 to 17 hours depending on your departure point (a long haul, but a worthy one, bringing you to the far side of the world and the start of something unforgettable). From Auckland, domestic flights within New Zealand are frequent and relatively affordable. New Zealand's national bus system is InterCity, which is a convenient way to get around on land. Please keep in mind when making travel reservations that you will be crossing the international date line. Thinking of adventuring beyond the boat?
From music festivals to food and wine celebrations, marathons to art deco weekends, New Zealand comes alive in the summer months. Whether you're drawn to vineyard feasts, lantern-lit nights, or the rhythm of live music echoing through mountain valleys, New Zealand is rich with seasonal magic. We’ve compiled a list of seasonal events happening around the country to help you plan your trip
Where we’re sailing next
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Australia
As February arrives, we’ll lift anchor from New Zealand and begin our westward crossing to Australia. Tasmania’s rugged wilderness is calling, and from there we’ll trace the east coast—visiting the Great Barrier Reef before rounding the Top End toward the remote shores of Western Australia.
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Chilean Patagonia
Next, we’re setting our sights on the fjords of Chilean Patagonia—a region of deep channels, tidal rivers, ancient glaciers, and soaring mountain walls draped in mist. This remote maze of waterways is one of the most iconic high-latitude cruising grounds on the planet: raw, untamed, and breathtaking in scale.
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Antarctica
And just over the horizon: Antarctica. we’re laying the groundwork for an expedition to the White Continent between December 2027 and January 2028. Icy, immense, and otherworldly, this voyage will mark a new level of adventure—one that few ever attempt. This southern stretch will serve as the gateway to our boldest journey yet.
Interested in Coming Aboard?
Whether you're dreaming of a future voyage, have questions about our upcoming expeditions, or just want to say ahoy, send us a digital message in a bottle below. We check our inbox often (even from remote anchorages) and will get back to you as soon as we’re in calm seas and within signal range.
