Morning Glory Chilled Out Sail (3.5hrs)

★ 5.0 34 reviews

from $93.62 per person

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Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
Meeting point: Flaxmill Bay, Purangi Road
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
On board: Coffee or tea and a baked snack included
Run by: Boom Sailing

Overview

This is a morning sail on a yellow sailing catamaran operated by Boom Sailing, departing from Flaxmill Bay near Whitianga. The trip runs for 3.5 hours, with check-in at 9:00 am and departure at 9:15 am. Guests are transferred from the beach to the yacht by inflatable dinghy, and the day ends back at the same meeting point.

The route follows the Mercury Bay coastline toward Cathedral Cove, with time at Gemstone Bay along the way. The catamaran sails past Cathedral Cove, with about 3 hours on Mercury Bay and 15 minutes at Gemstone Bay. Snorkelling equipment is provided on board, and several travellers describe swimming and snorkelling over fish as a highlight of the morning. The water is cold, as one reviewer put it bluntly, but the fish life makes the dip worthwhile for many.

The atmosphere is relaxed rather than high energy. Reviewers repeatedly mention bean bags, blankets, fresh coffee and baked snacks, and a crew content to either share sailing tips or leave guests in peace. With a maximum of 12 travellers, it suits couples, families with children, and older relatives alike, provided everyone has moderate mobility, as the boat is not wheelchair accessible.

18tours listed on this site

$69 to $177per-person from-prices across the whole site, USD

5tour types

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What's Included

Included

Coffee and/or Tea
Use of snorkelling equipment
Toilet and Changing area on board

Itinerary

Check in at Flaxmill BayMeet at the beach opposite 1039 Purangi Road, Purangi Road Ferry Landing, Whitianga. Final check-in is 9:00 am, 15 minutes before departure, where the crew waits with the inflatable dinghy used to transfer guests to the yacht.
Board the catamaranThe crew ferries guests out to the yellow sailing catamaran anchored in Flaxmill Bay. Coffee, tea and a baked snack are served as the boat sets off.
Cathedral CoveThe catamaran sails past Cathedral Cove, about 10 minutes.
Sail Mercury BayAround 3 hours sailing Mercury Bay along the coastline, with chances to swim, snorkel with the provided equipment, or relax in the bean bags on the netting.
Gemstone BayA 15 minute stop at Gemstone Bay.
Return to Flaxmill BayThe sail ends back at the meeting point in Flaxmill Bay, with a dinghy transfer back to shore.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical things shape the morning, from the early check-in to the swim stop and the maximum of 12 travellers on board.

Cheapest from-price in each tour type, per person, USD

Arrive early. Final check-in is 9:00 am, a full 15 minutes before the 9:15 am departure. This cut-off applies to the morning trip specifically.
Pack a swim. Snorkelling equipment is supplied, and reviewers often describe swimming and snorkelling over plenty of fish. There is a toilet and changing area on board for use after the swim.
Warm layers. Reviewers mention blankets on board, but a warm layer is wise for a morning on the water. Bean bags and the netting are the main lounging spots.
Food and drink. Morning trips include fresh brew coffee, tea and a baked snack. Travellers have mentioned banana bread and juice specifically. Snorkelling gear, toilet and changing facilities are also included.
Group feel. The tour caps at 12 travellers, which several reviewers found relaxed and comfortable. The crew strike a balance between pointing out sights and leaving guests to enjoy the quiet.
Fitness and access. A moderate level of physical fitness is required. Pushchairs are accessible and service animals are allowed, but the boat is not wheelchair accessible, and boarding involves a dinghy transfer.

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Common issues. The sail needs good weather and a minimum number of travellers, and cancellations for either reason come with an offer of a different date or a full refund. One reviewer described the water as a lot brisk, so the swim is not for everyone. Wheelchair users cannot be accommodated. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before departure receive no refund.

Common Questions

What Is Included In The Price?

Coffee or tea with a baked snack, use of snorkelling equipment, and a toilet and changing area on board are all included. The trip lasts 3.5 hours.

Where Do I Meet The Boat?

The meeting point is the beach opposite 1039 Purangi Road, Flaxmill Bay, Purangi Road Ferry Landing, Whitianga. The crew meets guests on shore with an inflatable dinghy to transfer them to the catamaran at anchor. Hotel pickup is not listed for this tour.

What Time Does The Tour Start?

Final check-in is 9:00 am, 15 minutes before the 9:15 am departure. The sail ends back at the same meeting point in Flaxmill Bay.

Is It Suitable For Children And Older Travellers?

Yes, within limits. One reviewer sailed with a 5 year old and praised the crew for making the child comfortable, and another brought grandparents along. Pushchairs are accessible, but the boat is not wheelchair accessible and travellers need a moderate level of physical fitness for boarding and swimming.

What Is The Cancellation Policy?

Cancel at least 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside 24 hours there is no refund and changes are not accepted. If the operator cancels for poor weather or because the minimum number of travellers is not met, you are offered a different date, a different experience, or a full refund.

What Should I Bring?

Snorkelling gear, coffee or tea and a baked snack are provided on board, with a toilet and changing area. Bring swimwear, a towel and a warm layer.