Auckland to Bay of Islands via Kawau 15 days
Day 1
Pick up your charter boat from Bayswater Marina at midday Enjoy a leisurely sail down the Harbour, taking in the local scenery, to Islington Bay on Rangitoto Island, approx 8 nm. This anchorage provides the perfect spot for the first night of your cruise giving you the chance to get to know your vessel before venturing further a field next day. Islington Bay or better known to the locals as "Drunks Bay" offers good shelter and you are assured a good night`s sleep.

Day 2
Hauraki Gulf Over the next few days explore the Hauraki Gulf visiting beautiful beaches, wildlife conservation areas, going for walks, swimming, reading etc., while watching the weather forecast to prepare for your trip up the coast.

Day 3
Sail to Kawau Island stopping to visit Tiritiri Matangi Island, a wildlife reserve.

Day 4
Kawau Island Visit the Mansion House and take a walk around part of the island.

Day 5
Up with the sparrows this morning and all hands on deck for the 40 mile sail to Whangarei Heads, the longest stretch of water with no anchorages. Anchor in Urquhart Bay.

Day 6
Whangarei Heads Walk out to Bream Head or over to the ocean beach. Alternatively motor the 15 miles up to Whangarei Town Basin where many cruising boats spend the summer.

Day 7
Whangarei Heads - Tutukaka A sail of about 20 miles takes you round Bream Head and on to Tutukaka, where there is a marina with showers, laundry facilities and restaurants.

Day 8
Tutukaka - Mimiwhangata About 15 miles and you can explore some bays on the way if there is no easterly swell.

Day 9
Mimiwhangata - Whangaruru About 4 miles across to this very sheltered harbour.

Day 10
Whangaruru - Whangamumu About 10 miles to a lovely enclosed bay with an old whaling station to explore.

Day 11
Whangamumu - Deep Water Cove Just a short trip today into the Bay of Islands. As you round Cape Brett and the famous "Hole in the Rock" a whole new cruising wonderland awaits you.

Day 12
Bay of Islands Here there are many places to visit. A few options include Urupukapuka Island, Roberton Island, Moturua Island, Te Puna inlet, up the river to Kerikeri, or the townships of Russell, Waitangi, Opua and Paihia. Alternatively you could explore further north to the Cavalli Islands and Whangaroa.

Day 13
Bay of Islands

Day 14
Bay of Islands

Day 15
Return your yacht to Opua Marina by 1200.

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