Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sailing on R. Tucker Thompson Including BBQ Lunch

Overview

Available languages

English

5 hours 30 minutes

Mobile ticket

What better way to explore the peaceful waters of the Bay of Islands than on board the "R. Tucker Thompson" tall ship? This replica of a 100-year-old schooner looks just like a working ship of the 18th century and you can spend the day on board exploring the bays and beaches of this beautiful Maritime Park. Operated by a charitable trust, funds raised from our sailing go to support our youth development voyages over winter.

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please talk to us about any physical disabilities. We try hard to accommodate all travelers!

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Wet weather gear (if required)

Bar on board (inc. alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages)

Morning Tea with our famous scones

Coffee and/or Tea

Cruise on board the "R. Tucker Thompson" tall ship

BBQ lunch

Hotel pick up and drop off

Options

Departing Russell

Departing from Russell. The R.Tucker Thompson leaves Russell wharf at 10am sharp, returning at to Russell wharf at 3.30pm.
Morning tea and lunch: Morning tea with homemade scones and cream. BBQ lunch (vegetarian option available). Cash bar available.

Departing Paihia

Departing from Paihia. Includes return Fullers Bay Belle Ferry across to Russell. The R.Tucker Thompson leaves Russell wharf at 10am sharp, returning at to Russell wharf at 3.30pm.
Morning tea and lunch: Morning tea with homemade scones and cream. BBQ lunch (vegetarian option available). Cash bar available.

Reviews

4.91

338 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

316

What a fantastic day....
Paul B,
Mar 8, 2025
- Viator
5.00
What a fantastic day. Crew were very engaging and encouraging to be active during the cruise. Food was very flavoursome and plentiful. Have created fantastic memories. One of the best things I loved the most was that the purpose of the ship was to help youth in local communities. Thank you for one of the best experiences we have had in New Zealand
Memorable day with a schooner.
Fujio H,
Mar 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00
We enjoyed our experience tremendously. It was wonderful to sail in a schooner with no noise other than wind and ocean waves. The side trip to an uninhabited island beach was great. I enjoyed climbing on a rope ladder to the main mast (using a safety harness). My wife enjoyed pulling on a rope to help raise the main mast. Barbecue lunch was delicious and we had a chance to purchase wine and beer. They made sure that we return in time to catch our cruise ship.
Sailing, Sailing Over the Ocean Blue
Charlotte P,
Mar 5, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Other than not having quite enough wind, we had a perfect sailing day! It was warm and overcast, so no sunburns. The food was excellent. I have special dietary requirements and they met them perfectly for me. I got to steer the ship for a while and the passengers that wanted to got to climb up the ropes to the top of the mask. People helped with the ropes to raise and lower the sails. Captain Peter was extremely informative throughout the cruise and the crewwas very helpful with food and drinks and anything else we needed. It was truly a day to remember.
Sail on Sailor
Steve V,
Feb 27, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Capt Magnus and his crew showed us just how beautiful the Bay of Islands really is! Fascinating to learn the history of the ship’s creation and how this activity directly supports youth development in sailing. Bravo Zulu!
Smooth Sailing and Scenery so Beautiful!
Lois L,
Feb 17, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Such a breath of fresh air, the scenery and smoothness of this ride was just what the Doctor ordered. The Tall ship and its crew were sensational and I felt very safe! What a wonderful educational opportunity for the young girls and boys to learn how to sail. It was a great day on the ship and meeting other people as well! Thank you!

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