Great Escape Yacht Charters & Sailing School

Yacht charters from NZ$120 per day Cruise in New Zealand's beautiful Bay of Islands in one of our 20 to 30 foot sailing boats.

Sailing Courses from NZ$445 Our Courses include everything you need for a 2 day course in the Bay of Islands, and guest what, you can also sleep on the boat for that night.

“laid back and relaxing” Terrific instruction and patience from the instructor. Organisation was flexible but structured for boat rentals and safety.

Bob & Lynda Miller, Canada rankers.co.nz

“Beautiful surroundings” We chartered one of the Davidson 20s for a 5-hour afternoon sail. Darren and Wendy were very friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. These Davidson 20s are a bit old and are starting to look it, but they are really well built and have a great feel under sail. If I get the chance to come back to NZL, I will definitely come back to this company for another charter.

mtbsailor, USA rankers.co.nz

“Best of NZ” We did a 6 day sailing course, 3 days course & 3 days we had the boat by our own.

Nadine, Germany rankers.co.nz

Sailing courses

Sailing charters

Our Services

Learn to sail with one of our qualified instructors. We offer beginners to advanced Yachting NZ certified courses focusing on learning by getting out on the water in small 2-3 person groups. Learn the basics and then leave the instructor behind and explore the Bay of Islands yourself.

One of the world's finest sailing area - Tranquil Waters - Safe, calm anchorages - Lovely sailing breezes

At Great Escape we have a fleet of 14 well-maintained yachts from 20-31 feet to suit all budgets. All you provide is food, personal gear, and a sun hat.

The Bay of Islands is a sailors paradise and has good sea breezes with flat water, sheltered anchorages for any wind direction, all in a maritime reserve which allows you unlimited access to the bays and islands.