F.A.Qs

• Jacket/Jumper; the breeze gets stronger when you are sailing so bring a jumper even if the weather looks good. In any case we do have a indoor saloon for your comfort.

For day trips; 

• Swimwear and a towel if you want to go swimming. You are welcome to bring your own snorkel gear or you can use our masks provided.
• Walking shoes; Shoes are to be taken off upon boarding but do bring sneakers/shoes if you are planning on doing our island walk.
• Sunglasses, Sunhat
• Any drink/snacks you wish.

No, our catamaran has two hulls which means that it stays relatively flat when we are sailing. Most people can move about the boat without much trouble, however if you'd rather we have a lovely indoor saloon you can relax in as well.
If you are nervous about the sea state please let us know onboard so we can make your experience as enjoyable and comfortable as possible.

When onboard shoes are taken off to reduce damage on the boat. We will ask you to put your shoes in a locker while on the boat. You will be able to take them ashore to wear for the walk if you choose. 

We will choose from one of the Bay Of Islands main 6 islands. These include; Okahu, Waewaetorea, Urupukapuka, Moturua, Motukiekie and Roberton (Motuarohia) Island. Each island is unique and have some amazing beaches and stunning walks. We will decide on the day what island will be the most sheltered to sail to for that days conditions. You can find more about our islands here; https://www.bayscapescharters.co.nz/the-bay-of-islands

If you do not wish to get wet our boat will keep you nice and dry. However we do recommend bringing togs and a towel so that you can enjoy the full experience of the Bay of Islands by swimming or snorkeling in its beautiful waters.

There is no requirement for you to be able to swim. However if you are not confident in the water we ask that you inform one of our crew when you are on board.

Absolutely! We can provide life jackets for kids if required, just let us know on board. 

All our shared charters leave from Paihia Wharf, look for the Bayscapes Catamaran. Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your departure time.

Parking in Paihia is limited so please ensure you come early enough to find a park and meet us.

You can put your bags in one of our cabins below. Our crew will direct you where to put your belongs when you board. Make sure to check out our recommended list of what to bring.

Included in our packed lunch is a sandwich item (croissant, panini, bun or wrap), a piece of fruit, cookie/slice and scone/muffin. The packed lunch is an individual lunch and is included in the base price of all of our day charters.
All of our food is catered from the lovely team at Cake In The Box Kerikeri.

Yes we can cater for vegan, vegetarian, gluten and dairy free. Just make a note when booking or email us for any dietary requirements

Our maximum passenger limit is 19. We like our passengers to be able to move around the boat throughout the journey so we keep our groups small for a more enjoyable experience.

Unfortunately we can only offer discounted rates for infants as they are still counted towards our passenger limit (19). 
Please note that a packed lunch is not included in the infant price

We require a minimum of 4 guests before we can set sail. If this number is not reached yet your order will show as pending. A confirmation email will be sent to you as soon as this number is reached.
If you would like to sail with less than 4 guests please look at our private escape options.

No, the Hole in the Rock is further out than we go.

Our upgraded lunch can be added to our Private Charters only. It is a bit more substantial with a buffet style lunch with; Specialty Breads and Rolls, Selection of Cold Cut Meats, Fresh Salads, Relishes & Dressings , Assorted Savouries and Sweet Slices & a Fruit Platter. ​

Yes! We can pick up from Russell Wharf, just let us know when you book.

Yes! Our standard pricing includes an individual packed lunch but this can be upgraded to our buffet style lunch which is a bit more substantial and great for large groups.
We can also do charcuterie boards and cakes on request. If you'd like something extra special just let us know.

Our maximum passenger limit is 19 people. This includes children and infants.

There is no alcohol available for purchase on board. We do however allow BYO (Bring Your Own) alcohol. There is chilly bin and fridge available to keep things cold once you are on board.

Our Private Charter is for maximum 6 hours with the earliest departure being 8:30am and latest return time being 5pm.
Following our recommended itinerary we leave at 9.30am and return at 3.30pm

Yes! We have a indoor and outdoor bluetooth speakers for you to crank your tunes!

Yes babies/infants count towards our passenger limit (19).

We require a minimum of 4 guests before we can set sail. If this number is not reached yet your order will show as pending. A confirmation email will be sent to you as soon as this number is reached.
If you would like to sail with less than 4 guests please look at our private escape options.

If we have to cancel your booking for any reason you will be notified and receive a refund or have the option to re-book a later date.

There are a two main reasons why we might cancel your charter. These are;
Bad Weather- If the weather forecast shows high swells or heavy winds we may cancel your charter to ensure your safety.
Minimum Passenger Not Met- On our shared charters we have a minimum passenger requirement of 4 people. If this number is not met we may cancel your charter or ask if you are available to book on another confirmed day.

If we do need to cancel for any reason we will let you know prior to the day.

Online bookings close 12 hours before departure for our Shared Charters. If you would like to book after this please call us.

Please email us at info@bayscapescharters.co.nz for any cancellations or amendments.

There is no alcohol available for purchase on board. We do however allow BYO (Bring Your Own) alcohol. There is chilly bin and fridge available to keep things cold once you are on board.

There are snack foods and non alcoholic drinks available onboard to purchase. We also have an eftpos machine for your convenience. Please bring your own alcoholic drinks if you wish.

We can cater for vegan, vegetarian, gluten free and dairy free. All of our food is made and prepared off site so if you need a dietary lunch please state this in your booking form or email us.

Disclaimer: All food is made in the same kitchen so there is no guarantee that products are 100% free of any allergens etc.

Included in our packed lunch is a sandwich item (croissant, bun or wrap), a piece of fruit, cookie/slice and scone/muffin. The packed lunch is an individual lunch and is included in the base price of all of our day charters.

All of our food is catered from the lovely team at Cake In The Box Kerikeri.

This depends on your cruise ships arrival and departure time.
As Bay of Islands is a tender port. You will need to check with your cruise ship where you are tendering in to. Most cruise ships will tender into Waitangi Wharf, from here there is a 10 minute shuttle bus into Paihia. This shuttle bus arrives right next to the Paihia Wharf where we depart from.

As a general rule allow 1.5 hours between when your cruise ship arrives and departs from Bay of Islands and our shared charter timings. Alternatively as we can not guarantee we will wait for cruise ship passengers, get a group together and book a private charter where we can fit better into your time schedule.

If you are on a cruise ship and are worried about your timings please send us an email so we can do our best to accomodate you.

Bayscapes Charters Ltd is not affiliated with any cruise ship companies and therefore does not take any liability for any changes in cruise ship schedule. It is your responsibility to find out where your cruise ship tenders into and that you will have enough time to meet our charter times. If you are late/ do not show to your departure time you will not receive a refund.
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Bayscapes Charters cancellation policy is that you will receive a full refund if you cancel 24 hours prior to the charter departure time. For any cancellation made after this time no refund will be given. 
So please let us know as soon as you are aware of any changes to your cruise ship schedule so that we can do our best to assist you.