Unique D'Urville Island Sailing Adventure

From Nelson to Nelson
  • Canterbury & Upper South Island
  • Small Ship Cruising
  • Wildlife and Nature
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Tour Description

Experience the rugged and remote Rangitoto ki te Tonga / D'Urville Island on board the comfortable Te Harinui sailing catamaran. A 5-day live-aboard private holiday package just for your friends and family.  The sailing catamaran has four master queen cabins with their own ensuite, ample room on the deck and a well equipped galley and indoor dining area.  

During this unique 5 day sailing adventure you explore remote areas where the only access is by boat or air for the few holiday homes and farms that exist there. This personalized private tour allows  you to experience great fishing, diving, snorkelling, bush, and farm walks in remote and tranquil spots. Depart Nelson for Greville Harbour, Port Hardy, Catherine Cove, Croisilles Harbour and finally returning to Nelson. Your experienced skipper will tailor the itinerary to suit the weather and those on board.

Your sailing journey takes you through rugged and off the beaten track places, with luscious bush and steep cliff surrounds, and winding natural waterways offering protective anchorages, D’Urville Island is a truly unique and special place. You will have plenty of time to relax on board or explore some of the special spots in this part of New Zealand. Your experienced skipper will be your guide and stop at the best places for snorkelling, swimming or perhaps to catch some blue cod, kingfish, snapper or groper. Keep an eye out for marine wildlife such as seals and dolphins.   In the evening watch the night sky and enjoy the tranquility of this amazing region. After being surround by this epic scenery it will be time to return to Nelson.

Viva's Best Bits...

"If you want something unique and travel with friends or family to places a little off the beaten path, then this is the perfect cruise for you." Pia, Team Viva

Explore the remote and unique region of D'Urville Island in the Marlborough Sounds, this stunning jewel is only accessible by boat or plane.

Your skipper will stop at the best coves and beaches, where you will have time to enjoy kayaking, SUP, fishing, swimming, snorkelling and of course just chill.

Tour Itinerary

Customisable ? This tour can be customised to suit your tastes and timing. Enquire here for more information.
Day 1
Nelson

Arrival into Nelson at your leisure. Please make your own way to your accommodation for the night.

Located in central Nelson, you are only minutes walk from Nelson's landmark cathedral and main shopping district (including just a block away from Jens Hansen Goldsmiths, creators of the ring in The Lord of the Rings film trilogy). Evening at leisure, perhaps sample some of the great craft beer and fine wines Nelson has on offer.

Day 2
Nelson D'Urville Island

Meet at the Nelson Waterfront at 9am. As soon as everyone is on board and provisions are packed the skipper will set sail and you are off on your unique adventure. You trip will take you along the coastal Tasman Bay and your skipper will point out some of the special sights. Later on today you arrive at D'Urville Island and your spot for tonight is Greville Harbour or also called Wharariki. This harbour has an excellent reputation as being very attractive and well protected anchorage, hence the prefect place to stay overnight.

Day 3
D'Urville Island

Today your skipper will take you further North to Port Hardy. Explore this fabulous region by kayak, SUP and you will have time to do some fishing too. The skipper will stop at some of the lovely bays and you will have time to snorkel, swim and enjoy the stunning scenery.
The soothing and relaxing sound of the gentle sea and the freshness of pure sea air will help you get to sleep tonight.

Day 4
D'Urville Island

Sail around the tip of D'Urville Island you will pass the Rangitoto Islands and end up at Catherine Cove. You will enjoy this peaceful place. A great place to explore the crystal clear waterways by kayak or cast a line to enjoy some fresh fish. From the bay you will be able to see the Wilderness Resort and you may go on land and stop for a coffee or a bit to eat (best fish and chips!)

Day 5
D'Urville Island

Wake up to peace, tranquility and natural beauty this morning. It is time to leave Catherine Cove and we sail south. Your skipper will keep a close eye on the weather to find a great time to sail across the French Pass. Tonight we plan to anchor at Croisilles Harbour, a natural inlet and a space of deep water and very sheltered by adjacent land. You may have time to explore Okiwi Bay and Squally Cove.

Day 6
D'Urville Island Nelson

Enjoy your last day at sea. Your skipper will take you along some little bays, make the most of it and kayak one last time. At around 5pm you will return and dock at the Nelson Waterfront.

Make your own way to your accommodation for the night in central Nelson

Please note: The D’Urville Island sail trip is weather dependent, but the idea is to circumnavigate the whole island, and cross the French Pass.

Day 7
Depart Nelson

Depart Nelson at your leisure today, or please let us know if you would like to stay a little longer

What’s Included

Accommodation
  • Included Copy 20 4 nights in a double cabin with ensuite onboard catamaran
  • Included Copy 20 2 nights hotel accomodation in Nelson
Food
  • Included Copy 20 Self catering whilst onboard the catamaran (basic pantry items included eg tea/coffee)
  • Included Copy 31 Catering services available on request
Fees & Services
  • Included Copy 20 Use of stand up paddle boards, kayak, snorkelling and fishing equipment, dinghy & outboard
  • Included Copy 20 Skipper, fuel, bedding & linen onboard catamaran
  • Included Copy 31 This is a fantastic family/friends experience, we can customise this trip for you!

Activities

  • Included Unique private charter luxury sailing catamaran to explore the remote D'Urville Island
  • Included Plenty of activities: stand up paddle boards, dinghy, fishing or snorkelling
  • Included Relax and swim at stunning beaches
  • Included Keep an eye out for wildlife such as dolphins and fur seals.
  • Included Visit remote parts of the Marlborough sounds, which can only be reached by boat.
Click here for dates & prices
Duration

7 days

Price from

$967 USD

Per person, sharing

Based on 8 adults, incl GST

Daily Departures