The Sundowner Evening Cruise in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand offers a delightful 2-hour sailing adventure. Travelers can expect stunning sunset views as they navigate tranquil waters, with a refreshing swim stop in a sheltered cove. Rated a perfect 5.0, this experience includes a complimentary alcoholic beverage on the return journey. With a maximum of 16 travelers and a knowledgeable captain guiding the way, this cruise promises to create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, the Sundowner Evening Cruise may be the perfect blend to captivate your senses.

This experience made our list of the 12 Best Sailing Experiences In Paihia.

Key Points

Sundowner Evening Cruise - 2 Hour Evening Sailing Cruise With Swim Stop - Key Points

  • A 2-hour sailing adventure in the picturesque Bay of Islands, New Zealand, with a refreshing swim stop in a sheltered cove.
  • Opportunity to enjoy tranquil Paihia’s stunning sunset backdrops and a complimentary alcoholic beverage on the return journey.
  • Suitable for travelers with reasonable physical ability, excluding those under 4 years old or in wheelchairs.
  • Reliable operation in most weather conditions, with a 24-hour free cancellation policy and lowest price guarantee.
  • Highly rated by previous guests for the knowledgeable captain, serene atmosphere, and memorable swimming experience.

Overview of the Cruise

The Sundowner Evening Cruise is a 2-hour sailing adventure that takes visitors on a tranquil journey through the picturesque Bay of Islands in New Zealand.

With a perfect 5.0 rating from 25 reviews, this cruise has earned a Badge of Excellence for its exceptional experience.

Guests will relax as the captain navigates the best anchorages, allowing them to soak up the stunning native New Zealand scenery.

The highlight of the cruise is a refreshing swim stop in the warm waters of a sheltered cove.

Capping off the experience, guests can enjoy a complimentary alcoholic beverage as they sail back to the starting point in Paihia.

Highlights of the Experience

Sundowner Evening Cruise - 2 Hour Evening Sailing Cruise With Swim Stop - Highlights of the Experience

Visitors can enjoy tranquil Paihia with stunning sunset backdrops during the Sundowner Evening Cruise. As the captain navigates the best anchorages, guests can relax and take in the native New Zealand scenery. The highlight is a refreshing swim in the warm waters of a sheltered anchorage. Afterward, guests can savor a complimentary alcoholic beverage while soaking in the breathtaking views.

Experience Highlights
Tranquil Paihia Scenery Relaxing Navigation Sheltered Swim Stop
Stunning Sunset Views Knowledgeable Captain Complimentary Drink
Native NZ Landscapes Best Anchorages Memorable Moments

Meeting and Booking Details

Sundowner Evening Cruise - 2 Hour Evening Sailing Cruise With Swim Stop - Meeting and Booking Details

Travelers can meet at the Barefoot Sailing Adventures meeting point on Marsden Road in Paihia Beach to begin the Sundowner Evening Cruise. The 2-hour sailing experience ends back at the same location.

Cruises depart daily at 5:00 PM, with a maximum group size of 16 travelers. Booking confirmations are provided upon reservation, and the experience operates in most weather conditions, so guests should dress appropriately.

The cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children under 4 years old aren’t recommended. Travelers can take advantage of the convenient location near public transportation.

With a 5.0 rating from 25 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, the Sundowner Evening Cruise is a popular choice for visitors to the Bay of Islands.

Physical Ability Requirements

Sundowner Evening Cruise - 2 Hour Evening Sailing Cruise With Swim Stop - Physical Ability Requirements

Reasonable physical ability is required for the Sundowner Evening Cruise, as it’s not wheelchair accessible. The 2-hour evening sailing adventure involves various physical activities, such as boarding the boat and potentially swimming at a sheltered anchorage.

Guests should be able to comfortably navigate stairs and move around the vessel. While the cruise operates in most weather conditions, travelers are advised to dress appropriately for the outdoor environment.

Children under 4 years old aren’t suitable for this experience, and those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Weather and Accessibility

Sundowner Evening Cruise - 2 Hour Evening Sailing Cruise With Swim Stop - Weather and Accessibility

The Sundowner Evening Cruise operates in most weather conditions, allowing guests to enjoy the scenic sailing journey regardless of the forecast. Appropriate attire is recommended to ensure comfort throughout the 2-hour experience.

Some key points about the weather and accessibility of the Sundowner Evening Cruise:

  1. The cruise runs in most weather conditions, so you can book with confidence even if the forecast looks a bit uncertain.

  2. However, it’s still a good idea to dress appropriately for the weather, as you’ll be outside on the water for the duration of the cruise.

  3. The cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a reasonable level of physical ability is required to embark and disembark the boat.

  4. Children under 4 years old aren’t recommended for this experience.

Cancellation and Payment Policy

Sundowner Evening Cruise - 2 Hour Evening Sailing Cruise With Swim Stop - Cancellation and Payment Policy

With the Sundowner Evening Cruise, travelers can take advantage of a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Plus, guests have the option to reserve their spot now and pay later. The company also offers a lowest price guarantee, ensuring customers get the best deal.

For further details on the cancellation and payment policy, refer to the table below:

Cancellation Policy Payment Options
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience Reserve now, pay later
Cancellations after 24 hours may incur fees Lowest price guarantee
Policies subject to change, check at time of booking 21 additional reviews on Tripadvisor

Additional Traveler Reviews

Sundowner Evening Cruise - 2 Hour Evening Sailing Cruise With Swim Stop - Additional Traveler Reviews

Beyond the 25 reviews with a 5.0 rating, the Sundowner Evening Cruise has garnered 21 additional positive reviews on Tripadvisor, further attesting to its excellence.

Travelers consistently praise:

  1. The stunning scenery and sunsets enjoyed during the cruise.

  2. The attentive and knowledgeable captains who navigate the best anchorages.

  3. The opportunity to swim in the warm, sheltered waters.

  4. The complimentary alcoholic beverages that enhance the relaxing ambiance.

Reviewers frequently remark on the cruise’s perfect balance of serenity and adventure, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors to the Bay of Islands.

The overwhelmingly positive feedback solidifies the Sundowner Evening Cruise’s status as a must-do activity in the region.

Getting to the Meeting Point

Sundowner Evening Cruise - 2 Hour Evening Sailing Cruise With Swim Stop - Getting to the Meeting Point

Reaching the Barefoot Sailing Adventures meeting point on Marsden Road in Paihia Beach is straightforward, with the location situated conveniently near public transportation options.

Transportation Options Details
Bus Local buses run regularly to Paihia Beach
Taxi Taxis are readily available in the area
Walk The meeting point is a short walk from central Paihia
Private Vehicle Ample parking is available near the marina
Water Taxi A scenic option to reach the cruise departure point

Whether you choose to take public transit, hail a ride, or arrive under your own power, getting to the Sundowner Evening Cruise’s starting point is easy and hassle-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. However, a complimentary alcoholic beverage is provided as part of the experience.

Is There Onboard Restroom/Toilet Facilities?

Yes, the cruise vessel has onboard restroom/toilet facilities for the convenience of passengers. These facilities are maintained and accessible throughout the duration of the sailing experience.

What Types of Alcoholic Beverages Are Included?

The cruise includes one complimentary alcoholic beverage, which may be wine, beer, or a nonalcoholic option. Additional drinks can be purchased on board. The specific drink options are not explicitly stated in the provided information.

Do You Provide Life Jackets for the Cruise?

Yes, the cruise operator provides life jackets for all passengers. Safety is a top priority, so life jackets are mandatory and available to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience on the water.

Can I Book a Private/Exclusive Cruise?

Yes, private/exclusive cruises can be booked. The operator offers custom experiences for groups looking to have the boat to themselves. Pricing and availability depend on the party size and date requested.

Recap

The Sundowner Evening Cruise offers a truly captivating experience in the picturesque Bay of Islands.

Guests can enjoy stunning sunset views, a refreshing swim stop, and a complimentary alcoholic beverage, all while navigating the tranquil waters with a knowledgeable captain.

With a maximum of 16 travelers, this cruise provides the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, creating unforgettable memories.