Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sundowner Sailing
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 50 minutes
Mobile ticket
An idyllic way to kick off a summer evening in the Bay of Islands, with a special tall ship experience that takes in the beautiful inner harbour. Feel the lift of the sea breeze as it fills the sails, relax and enjoy the ride with a cool drink, or get involved in the sailing - haul the rigging, try your hand on the helm. This 2-hour tour runs on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Light finger food is included and a cash bar is available. Includes return ferry transfers to Russell - the perfect excuse to stay there for dinner!
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Paihia Harbour
Paihia is a bustling tourist town in the Summer - lots of restaurants, eateries, shops and beaches. Spend as long as you want there.
R. Tucker Thompson
Location where folks book with the Tucker and other attractions, there's a nice souvenir shop and restaurant as well.
What‘s Included
Wet weather gear (if required)
Licensed bar on board
Cruise of the inner Bay of Islands on the tall ship, the R. Tucker Thompson.
Shared Antipasto Platter
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Options
Departing Russell
Tall Ship Sundowner Sailing
Departing Paihia
Tall Ship Sundowner Sailing
Departing Paihia
26 Dec 2023 - 6 Jan 2024
Departing Russell
26 Dec. 2023 - 6 Jan. 2024
Reviews
98 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great time on the sailing ship
Explore57887004830,,Jan 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a wonderful trip on the R Tucker Thompson. The crew were all excellent; very helpful, and also both entertaining and educational with what they were telling us. The ship itself was great fun to be on - you could help out as much or as little as you wanted with the actual sailing; plus also for the adventurous, they offered opportunities to climb the rigging or climb out onto the bowsprit (with safety gear, of course). There was a great range of drinks available (extra cost); and the shared snack platter that was available had a great range of and generous amounts of food. All in all, a great afternoon out and would highly recommend.
Great trip!
Esther V,,Jan 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The welcome on board was friendly, and despite the inclement weather, guests were encouraged to get involved with sailing the ship, making for an authentic trip. Thank you!
Amazing dedication of...
Beverley Y,,Dec 30, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Amazing dedication of staff on the ship who showed their love for what they do. Explaining the story behind the group who run the experience was very interesting.
Absolute unique and very...
Chintan P,,Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Absolute unique and very pleasant experience on the sun downer sail boat. Kids enjoyed it very much by exploring the sail boat and interacting with the crew.
Ahoy mates!!
Happiness41027469116,,Apr 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazing...we will never forget this experience. Kids had fun and we spoke about the hard work that goes into maintaining that ship. Crew members were friendly and easy to talk to.
Don't miss out on this!
kirah927,,Mar 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Absolutely Amazing!! This experience will always be one of our favorite memories of our trip to New Zealand. Not only does all the money go to charity, but they let you help with the rigging, hauling up the sails, and climbing the ropes. I even got to sit on top of the mast for awhile. It was awesome. 100% would recommend to locals and tourists.
Fun Afternoon Aboard the R. Tucker Thompson
775mariannew,,Mar 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What a fun afternoon. The crew were friendly and helpful. The skipper allowed my "first mate" -- an old salt -- to drive the boat for a bit, which pleased my husband to no end. Bay of Islands is incredibly beautiful and this was a special way to view it. Apparently this boat and its history are renown in the area; when we mentioned to locals we were going aboard they all agreed "oh, that's such a great ship."
Perfect afternoon sail
Lani S,,Feb 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Beautiful ship, stunning sunny afternoon with a moderate breeze, perfect for sailing. Friendly and informative crew. We really enjoyed our sundowner sail. Pity we didn’t go for the whole day experience. Maybe next time.
Lovely afternoon
K2464YKcherylc,,Feb 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Beautiful ship and very helpful/accommodating staff. Fun watching people climb the rigging… Didn’t venture up myself though.
Such an amazing experience!
Aucklandandbeyond,,Feb 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Highly recommend this relaxing sailing experience. You can get hands on or sit back and enjoy a drink. Whatever you do, the kindness of the crew and the beauty of proper sailing will definitely impress.
Related Experiences
Operated by R. Tucker Thompson