Climb on-board and set sail on these magnificent vessels as we leave the city skyline behind.

As we begin to navigate into the Hauraki Gulf enjoy a light lunch with your crew now that you are comfortably on-board.

Feel the power of the sails building as the main sail is hoisted and the gib is rolled out – now is the time for whoops of delight and high fives as we’re off at high speed slicing through the ocean waves.

As we sail to our evening destination enjoy the treasure islands of the Gulf as we get up close and personal with Motuhie, Motutapu and Rakino Island.

As the afternoon sun finds its position we will tuck up at anchor to enjoy our surroundings. Take a refreshing swim from the boat, explore in one of our on-board kayaks or bring a book to read in a truly spectacular setting.

Enjoy a hearty evening meal as we socialise together and celebrate a great team effort. For those who are inspired by the life of Sir Peter Blake, enjoy a privately screened film for your eyes only.

After stories are exchanged, appetites satisfied and the clink of glasses fades retire to your bunk under a starry sky and appreciate the isolation but at the same time tucked up with a team and crew who appreciate your presence.

You can’t help but awaken to the smell of coffee and a hot breakfast. Stand and gaze as the diamonds dance on the ocean and take a moment to live in amongst the islands remembering the view you will never see unless your’re on the deck of this vessel of magnitude.

With Huey the Wind God at our backs we take this opportunity to search for our marine mammals in their natural environment as we make our way back to the Viaduct in Auckland to disembark at 11:00am.

24 hours to create memories that will last for many years.

Whether you have sailed the world or have yet to experience the thrill of adrenaline that comes from being at the helm of such magnificent vessels, this experience will leave you feeling like a captain of the seas.

You don’t have to be a sailor to get on-board Lion NZ or Steinlager 2, an acceptable level of fitness is the only requirement suggested. Elements of physicality during this trip involve being able to climb in and out of a tender (small boat used to transfer you from yacht to shore) and the ability to climb a ladder in order to get in and out of the tender or from the water swimming.

This experience is suitable for children from 13 years and above, families, groups, couples, corporate teams and any configuration of interested individuals looking for an experience of sea, salt, fun, camaraderie and the natural wonders of our maritime environment and private islands.

Your experience is set on-board vessels of sailing legends such as internationally celebrated yachtsman Sir Peter Blake and members of Emirates Team New Zealand. Both Lion NZ and Steinlager 2 were created by Blake, part of the his legacy that lives on to this day as well as being a passionate environmentalist.

In the spirit of Sir Peter Blake, this adventure incorporates a unique conservation focus coupled with the exploration of one of Hauraki Gulf’s treasured island’s. Discover one of the many restoration projects underway, walk through the luscious native New Zealand bush and keep an eye out for a special glimpse of our special native birds, or be at one with ocean and the sound of the gentle lapping waves as you take a beach stroll.

All food and drink will be provided on your trip including breakfast, lunches and dinner. Menu dependent on season.

On-board single bunk accommodation is provided. Simply bring your preferred type of bedding, favourite pillow and enjoy a gentle sleep far away from the city bustle.

Your experienced crew will ensure smooth sailing as they anchor you in the best secluded spots the Hauraki Gulf has to offer. Enjoy a refreshing ocean swim or explore the gulf in one of our two on-board kayaks.

As your safety on this trip is paramount, both Lion NZ and Steinlager 2 boats will store inflatable tenders on-board alongside life jackets for each and every passenger and member of crew.

Minimum 2 guests:
$595 NZD per person

Please ask for child pricing, 13-17 years inclusive.

Empowering Young People, and Now You.

Since 2008, the NZ Sailing Trust has empowered young New Zealanders by providing a truly special sailing experience that encourages leadership, teamwork and environmental awareness that enriches them with a newfound sense of courage. Over 8,000 youth have been proudly supported by the NZ Sailing trust in conjunction with the New Zealand Nautical Trust. They have learnt to appreciate the knowledge needed to drive these yachts around the world and have challenged them with respect and admiration for their sailors and the sea. Participants understand their identity, respect for their peers, their unique strengths and a sense of challenge that transcends challenge. These programs are designed to harness the talents and capabilities of each individual as they themselves grow to become leaders in their own lives.

Our Yachts – NZ Lion and Steinlager 2

Climb on-board one of our dream yachts. These magnificent vessels have founded the careers of many successful Kiwi Sailors who overcame adversity, scepticism and fear to win the hearts not only of New Zealand but of the world. It is essential to our cultural fabric and New Zealand’s nautical history that these yachts are retained and used to help inspire the next generation of young people in New Zealand. We invite you to experience the magic of sailing as we work to continue the legacy left behind by our beloved sailing greats and their contribution to the national pride of our country and to the conitnuation of sailing as sport and passion for many in New Zelanad.

Seasickness

Q. What if I become seasick?

A. Our crew are well trained on how to manage people that suffer from seasickness.  They have the knowledge to recommend seasickness tablets when appropriate and have other means to help participants feel better.

Qualified Crew

Q. Are the crew qualified?

A. The minimum crew requirements to safely operate the vessels is with one skipper and 2 crew.  On most occasions we take at least one of our trained volunteers.  Our skippers are qualified with SRL qualification or equivalent and our crew have sufficient experience on-board the vessels to satisfy skipper of competence.  Both of which are in accordance to Maritime Law.

Weather conditions

Q. What if it is raining?

1. Weather conditions can change. The skipper and crew will monitor the weather conditions closely. they will select each destination as part of the journey accordingly.  We still sail if it is raining, in fact this can add to the experience in many cases.  New Zealand Sailing Trust suggest to bring lots of layered clothing and a waterproof jacket.  They have full wet weather trousers and jackets available for all participants to use whilst on board.  The New Zealand Sailing Trust will postpone any journey if the con.  This rarely happens.

Safety equipment

Q. Do we need to wear life jackets?

A. All participants will be required to wear life jackets as a minimum requirement whilst under sail and when going ashore by tender.  The New Zealand Sailing Trust will provide these to everyone on board.

Fitness

Q. I am unsure of my level of fitness for this experience?

A.