10-Hour Great Mercury Island Adventure – Private Charter

Take your celebration or group event to the next level with a full-day sailing adventure aboard Windborne, a beautifully restored 1928 wooden topsail schooner. With 10 hours on the water, this private charter is the ultimate way to explore Mercury Bay and enjoy the natural beauty of Great Mercury Island.

What to Expect

• 10 hours on the water (8 am–6 pm) exploring Mercury Bay

• Exclusive use of the vessel for your private group

• Sail to Great Mercury Island — approx. 15 nautical miles 

• Complimentary morning refreshment — freshly brewed coffee, tea & a cookie to start the day right

• Hands-on sailing — help trim sails or take the helm and feel the schooner come alive as she heels to the breeze

• Time to explore — swim, snorkel, paddle, or stroll along golden beaches

• Wildlife encounters — dolphins, stingrays, seabirds, and more may appear along the way

  
  

Your Day on the Water

With her polished decks and elegant rigging, Windborne sets the tone for a day of sailing, celebration, and relaxation. As we head toward Great Mercury Island, the sails fill with wind, and you’re welcome to lend a hand, take the helm, or simply enjoy the traditional schooner sailing. The 15-nautical-mile passage is part of the magic - a chance to feel the rhythm of the sea and soak up the spectacular views of the Coromandel coastline.

Once anchored in one of Great Mercury Island’s beautiful bays, the playground is all yours. To reach the beach, guests can swim ashore or paddle over on a SUP - it’s part of the adventure. We are not equipped to ferry large groups ashore in the dinghy, but onboard you’ll find snorkel gear and flippers to use if you’d like to explore the water before stretching out on golden sand or wandering beneath the pohutukawa trees.

Although the island is no secret, it often feels like you’ve found your own slice of paradise - especially in quieter seasons when the beaches are nearly empty. And don’t forget to watch the water: dolphins love to ride the bow wave, stingrays glide beneath the surface, and seabirds wheel overhead. Every trip is shaped by nature, making each adventure truly unique.

Perfect for Private Celebrations

Whether you’re planning a:

• Birthday party or milestone event

• Work function or team outing

• Family gathering or reunion

• Or just want to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime yacht day with friends

A full-day charter to Great Mercury Island is a celebration in itself. With plenty of time to relax, play, and connect, you’ll create memories that last far beyond the day.

Details

• Departs: Whitianga Wharf, 8:00 am (please arrive by 7:50 am)

• Returns: 6:00 pm

• Duration: 10 hours

• Group size: up to 20 - contact us for details

• Bring: Food, drinks, swim gear, jacket, sunscreen, hut and camera

Note: Catering is not included beyond the complimentary morning refreshment. Please bring your own food and beverages for the day. Alcohol is welcome. Or have a chat with us if you’d like to explore catering options.

Why Choose Windborne for Your Great Mercury Island Adventure?

• Classic schooner charm: Step aboard a true 1928 gaff-rigged topsail schooner

• Exclusive experience: A private full-day charter, tailored to your group

• Breathtaking destination: Great Mercury Island’s beaches, bays & coastline

• Adventure & relaxation: Trim sails, swim, snorkel, or simply unwind on deck

• Lasting memories: A sailing experience your guests will talk about for years

  
  

Start your day with fresh coffee in hand, set sail aboard Windborne, and spend the day swimming, exploring, and celebrating in true Coromandel style.