Sailing Whitianga

This is a big day out to one of the prettiest places on earth. We depart at 8:00 am for the 15-nautical mile journey. It is way off other tourist routes and a real treat to experience. This cruise allows us to trim the sails and feel the old schooner healing with the wind. Weather permitting, we head for Peach Grove, which we often have to ourselves. Once there, you have so many options. You can swim or paddleboard ashore in the crystal clear water followed by a walk on the flawless beach. You can then take a short jaunt through the bush to a waterfall and enjoy a dip in the freshwater pool, whatever you choose to do. Native parrots, kaka and tui are abundant so you are sure to catch sight of these beautiful creatures along with seabirds and dolphins.

Private 6-Hour Sailing Adventure – Mercury Bay

Celebrate in style aboard Windborne, a classic 1928 wooden topsail schooner, lovingly restored and ready to give you and your guests an unforgettable day on the water. Perfect for birthdays, work functions, family gatherings, or simply an excuse to gather your favourite people, this is your chance to enjoy a private sailing charter like no other.

From the moment you step aboard at Whitianga Wharf, the adventure begins. With polished timber decks, elegant rigging, and the timeless charm of a true classic yacht, Windborne sets the stage for a celebration that blends relaxation, fun, and a dash of old-world romance.

What to Expect

• 6 hours of sailing (10am–4pm) on the stunning waters of Mercury Bay

• Exclusive use of the vessel for your group - birthdays, milestone events, corporate outings, or just a day of fun

• Plenty of time to play - set the sails, feel the schooner heel in the breeze, or simply lounge on deck with a drink in hand

• Opportunities for nature encounters - dolphins, orcas, whales, and seabirds often grace us with a visit

• A relaxed pace - space to mingle, laugh, and create lasting memories with friends or colleagues

  
  

Your Day on the Water

You’ll sail out of Whitianga and into the wide blue playground of Mercury Bay. This coastline is full of treasures - sweeping beaches, rugged cliffs, secret coves, and sparkling waters that invite exploration. If you’d like, you can lend a hand with the sails, learn a little about schooner sailing, and feel Windborne come alive as she heels into the wind. Or, simply stretch out on deck, breathe in the sea air, and let the day drift by in style.

Along the way, keep your eyes peeled - playful dolphins might join in the fun, seabirds glide overhead, and if you’re lucky, whales or orcas may appear on the horizon. Every trip is unique, shaped by wind, tide, and the magic of nature.

Perfect for Celebrations

Whether it’s:

• A birthday party you’ll never forget

• A special milestone with family and friends

• A team outing or relaxed corporate function

• Or simply the chance to gather your favourite people for something different

A private charter aboard Windborne gives you the freedom to celebrate your way. Eat, drink, laugh, and relax - the whole schooner is yours for the day.

Details

• Departs: Whitianga Wharf, 10:00 am (please arrive by 9:45 am)

• Returns: 4:00 pm

• Duration: 6 hours

• Group size: Flexible, contact us for details

• Bring: Lunch, snacks, drinks, jacket, sunscreen, camera, and your sense of adventure!

Note: Catering is not included, so bring along whatever food and beverages you’d like to enjoy. Alcohol is welcome. Or have a chat with us about it. 

Why Choose Windborne for Your Celebration?

• Classic charm: Step back in time aboard a beautifully restored 1928 schooner

• Exclusive experience: Your group, your day, your way

• Unforgettable scenery: Mercury Bay’s coastline is a spectacular backdrop for any event

• Adventure or relaxation: Trim sails, explore, or simply sit back and enjoy the ride

• Memories that last: A private sailing trip is the kind of celebration your guests will talk about for years

  
  

Make your next celebration truly special. Step aboard Windborne, let the sails catch the breeze, and enjoy a day of sailing, laughter, and timeless memories on the Coromandel coast.

10-Hour Great Mercury Island Adventure – Private Charter

Take your celebration or group event to the next level with a full-day sailing adventure aboard Windborne, a beautifully restored 1928 wooden topsail schooner. With 10 hours on the water, this private charter is the ultimate way to explore Mercury Bay and enjoy the natural beauty of Great Mercury Island.

What to Expect

• 10 hours on the water (8 am–6 pm) exploring Mercury Bay

• Exclusive use of the vessel for your private group

• Sail to Great Mercury Island — approx. 15 nautical miles 

• Complimentary morning refreshment — freshly brewed coffee, tea & a cookie to start the day right

• Hands-on sailing — help trim sails or take the helm and feel the schooner come alive as she heels to the breeze

• Time to explore — swim, snorkel, paddle, or stroll along golden beaches

• Wildlife encounters — dolphins, stingrays, seabirds, and more may appear along the way

  
  

Your Day on the Water

With her polished decks and elegant rigging, Windborne sets the tone for a day of sailing, celebration, and relaxation. As we head toward Great Mercury Island, the sails fill with wind, and you’re welcome to lend a hand, take the helm, or simply enjoy the traditional schooner sailing. The 15-nautical-mile passage is part of the magic - a chance to feel the rhythm of the sea and soak up the spectacular views of the Coromandel coastline.

Once anchored in one of Great Mercury Island’s beautiful bays, the playground is all yours. To reach the beach, guests can swim ashore or paddle over on a SUP - it’s part of the adventure. We are not equipped to ferry large groups ashore in the dinghy, but onboard you’ll find snorkel gear and flippers to use if you’d like to explore the water before stretching out on golden sand or wandering beneath the pohutukawa trees.

Although the island is no secret, it often feels like you’ve found your own slice of paradise - especially in quieter seasons when the beaches are nearly empty. And don’t forget to watch the water: dolphins love to ride the bow wave, stingrays glide beneath the surface, and seabirds wheel overhead. Every trip is shaped by nature, making each adventure truly unique.

Perfect for Private Celebrations

Whether you’re planning a:

• Birthday party or milestone event

• Work function or team outing

• Family gathering or reunion

• Or just want to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime yacht day with friends

A full-day charter to Great Mercury Island is a celebration in itself. With plenty of time to relax, play, and connect, you’ll create memories that last far beyond the day.

Details

• Departs: Whitianga Wharf, 8:00 am (please arrive by 7:50 am)

• Returns: 6:00 pm

• Duration: 10 hours

• Group size: up to 20 - contact us for details

• Bring: Food, drinks, swim gear, jacket, sunscreen, hut and camera

Note: Catering is not included beyond the complimentary morning refreshment. Please bring your own food and beverages for the day. Alcohol is welcome. Or have a chat with us if you’d like to explore catering options.

Why Choose Windborne for Your Great Mercury Island Adventure?

• Classic schooner charm: Step aboard a true 1928 gaff-rigged topsail schooner

• Exclusive experience: A private full-day charter, tailored to your group

• Breathtaking destination: Great Mercury Island’s beaches, bays & coastline

• Adventure & relaxation: Trim sails, swim, snorkel, or simply unwind on deck

• Lasting memories: A sailing experience your guests will talk about for years

  
  

Start your day with fresh coffee in hand, set sail aboard Windborne, and spend the day swimming, exploring, and celebrating in true Coromandel style.