Phantom Sailing Bay of Islands
5
Phantom Sailing Bay of Islands
By Phantom Sailing
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About
Lowest price guarantee
Ages 0-86, max of 10 per group
Duration: 5h 30m
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English, Spanish
More
- Use of Snorkelling equipment
- Start:
- Russell Booking and Information, The Strand, Russell 0202, New ZealandCome to the Russell Wharf and look for the good looking red boat at the end of the Wharf on the left hand side (from the village).
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
- Pushchair accessible
- Near public transportation
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 219048P1- Most travellers can participate
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travellers
- All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 219048P1
From
S$144.12
per adult
Select date and travellers
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- Shirley-AndyB0 contributionsExcellent day on the water - a must doWhat a fabulous day out with Rick And Robin. Sailing in the Bay of Islands is a must do when you are visiting and these folks have it down to a fine art. Relaxed, friendly, just a fantastic day out. Great lunch and great company.Written 24 March 2024
- CanadianGold0 contributionsEpic day on Phantom!We couldn’t have asked for a better day of sailing on Phantom. Perfect conditions on the water, lovely weather, fantastic lunch, beautiful anchorage, and wonderful hospitality. Definitely a highlight of our two-month trip of New Zealand. Thanks Rick and Robin for a fabulous day.Written 20 March 2024
- italydmz0 contributionsA perfect day in the Bay of IslandsIf you would like a perfect day in the Bay of Islands you should charter with this company. Rick and Robin were fantastic hosts. So friendly and accommodating to your wishes. The boat is beautiful, the scenery unmatched and the hosts top notch Lunch was very tasty. I have run out of superlatives to describe the experience. In other words I would highly recommend them.Written 13 March 2024
- darcyfalkiner620 contributionsSailing in the Bay of Islands for a dayWe spent a wonderful day regardless of the dizzily weather on the 'Phantom' with Robyn and Rick. They are competent wonderful people, totally in tune with their boat, and sailing is in their bones. We spent a lovely morning sailing to a fabulous lunch spot, where we explored, they beautiful island and had a lovely home prepared lunch with wine. Swam in the beautiful aqua waters off the little island and then sailed briskly back in the port of Russell. Fabulous day, thank you Rick and Robyn.Written 27 February 2024
- michemosher0 contributionsWhat a great day!Adding yet another another glowing review for Rick and Robin, both great sailors and storytellers-and Robin is a,so a great cook! We were so happy we chose to go with them on the Phantom.Written 17 February 2024
- Mark B0 contributionsAwesome sailing experienceRick & Renee hosted a spectacular day aboard their yacht. On the way to Robinson Island we had ringside seats for yachts competing in the Bay of Islands 3 days of racing. Rick sharing insights on what was going on, as well as many good yarns of their time sailing Phantom to Tahiti and further a field. We then stopped in a beautiful bay for a beach trip, swim and snorkel whilst Renee prepared a delicious feast. We even had the privilege of a little sail, if desired, on our way home. With Rick you are in safe and experienced hands.Written 29 January 2024
- Sophie D0 contributionsA wonderful day tripA great day sail with Rick and Robin on Phantom. Thank you for such an enjoyable day and being such generous hosts.Written 20 January 2024
- petreecefp0 contributionsRelaxing day cruising the Bay of IslandsIt’s all about the experience and Robyn & Rick sure know how to deliver a chilled, laid back day, with great conversation, and fab food. Can highly recommend a true Kiwi style experience! Thank you!Written 9 January 2024
- JMRSPereira0 contributionsSailing PhantomTotally recommend spending your day with Phantom Sailing. Everything was perfect, the homemade food was delicious and the way this lovely couple welcomed us in their “home”, was just amazing. If you see a dolphin wearing some sunglasses let me know, it could be mine. :DWritten 9 December 2023
- tahlif20230 contributionsTahliAbsolutely beautiful way to experience the Bay of Islands, without a noisy motor and in a small group of lovely people. Thank you Robin and Rick for sharing your home on the water with us for the day and the delicious lunch.Written 29 November 2023
- paulsH5081WH0 contributionsBrilliant brilliant day …Fab experience / day out / luncheon …only enhanced by seeing a pod of dolphins And the weather staying fine. Highly recommendedWritten 23 March 2023
- utosch0 contributionsNice trip with nice skippersRobin and Rick are very nice persons woth a big experience in sailing around the world. They have a lot of intresting storys to tell. We had a nice time on board. It was an relaxing day on board with a stop at an nice island. We had the luck to see some dolphins which was great.Written 22 March 2023
- bilbo1010 contributionsTop notch tourAwsome time excellent lunch. I rate them at 11. Very experienced sailors. I was on a different tour same place different time different boat didn't even come closeWritten 11 December 2022
- robmcguinness20220 contributionsGreat day sailingRick and Robin are awesome, some of the nicest people you will ever meet and their sailing experience is second to non. The know the Bay very well and their history of it and knowledge of where to head for the best experience is amazing. I would highly recommend sailing with them anytime.Written 20 February 2022
- wonderboy0 contributionsWonderful day on Bay of IslandsSuperb small group trip on The Phantom. Rick, Robin and Jack were great hosts with many stories to tell of their sailing adventures. We saw dolphins and it was great to actually sail with the motor off. The area is so full of history as well. Lunch was delicious and home baked, although with the number of hungry boys on board it was perhaps a little light. You can byo your own drinks if you like. Anyway, highly recommended and so much nicer than the bigger commercial operators. An awesome day out on a real yacht!Written 10 April 2021
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Popular mentions
5.0
140 reviews
Excellent
136
Very good
2
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
2
Cruiser24994516909
3 contributions
Unfortunately we had a very poor experience with this company. Due to poor weather and rough seas our cruise captain found it too dangerous to tender to port. My family and I had been looking forward to this sailing trip for months as we had booked over 6 months n advance. I called the person I had been in contact with for the sailing trip as soon as the captain made an announcement and was told over the phone that I’d be receiving a refund as the cancellation was no fault of my own. My family was incredibly upset that we’d be missing the trip. A few days later as I waited for the refund to post I received a refund of less than 1/3 of what I had paid. I contacted the company again and was told that since we cancelled the day of the tour, that’s the only refund we’d receive. I’d understand this policy under different circumstances, but when a cruise line captain is saying the seas are too dangerous and rough to tender, you’d think that in the best interest of their passengers a sail boat captain would agree. I tried contacting the company again to resolve the disagreement and they refused to respond to further emails, so unfortunately I’ll be needing to leave this negative review.
Written 14 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It was very distressing to read this review as we were also anticipating this trip and we’re fully prepared for the outing including all the catering having been prepared. Our cancellation policy specifically states that the customer receives a full refund if we, the company, cancel the trip. This customer canceled the trip within two hours of the charter, after we had already confirmed, in email correspondence, that we were going. When the phone call came, cancelling the trip, we never told this customer they would receive a full refund - that is totally untrue. We had turned down 4 other requests for charter for that day, the 1st of January, the height of our busy season. however, out of kindness and in contrast to our policy, we returned 1/3 of their cost. We see this review as an attempt to smear our reputation which anyone can see enjoys great reviews. We are 2 licensed captains on board, operating for 24 years, and have always been relied upon to give up to date weather forecasts for the comfort and safety of our passengers and this trip was cancelled through no fault of our own.
Perhaps the mobility of the majority of passengers on a cruise ship would have determined the captain’s decisions to cancel disembarkation, however, the same criteria do not apply to a 50ft sailboat. Several other sailing trips took place that day.
We did not respond to the customer’s email because of its threatening tone.
We look forward to having other travellers enjoying a great day on Phantom!
Written 26 January 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Victoria
2 contributions
Jan 2021 • Friends
Our trip on Phantom was phenomenal, a real highlight of our Northland trip. We were made to feel fully welcome aboard Robyn and Rick's vessel and got to appreciate the beautiful interior of their living quarters... a little insight of how living on the boat would be. Seeing the beauty of Bay of Islands, from the water is a must. Robyn and Rick's expertise and passion for sailing is apparent and you can choose to be as involved as you please. We sailed over to a beautiful bay and Rick's interest and knowledge about local sea life and its preservation was clear. At the bay we swam the stunning lagoon and there was an opportunity to take a hike too. We were surprised with a spectacular visit from a pod of dolphins who came to the bay to feed. Just AMAZING!! Back on board we had a delicious lunch. The home . baked bread and slice were yummy. Thanks Robyn. The sail back gave us opportunities to relax and chat. It was just fantastic to hear about some of the adventures Robyn and Rick have shared traveling around the world. We were recommended this trip by friends and will definitely be back. Thank you so much for.a beautiful day. Vic and Nat.
Written 16 January 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wow! you've said it all - thanks for coming aboard Phantom!!
Written 21 February 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
joyhughes21
Broadbeach, Australia10 contributions
Mar 2020
I can't recommend this trip highly enough. We had 12 on board the yacht and we all sat on the deck for most of the day. Rick and Robin made the perfect team to host this activity and obviously knew how to look after their guests. Rick took the time and effort to slow down and let us enjoy a display put on by dolphins near the boat. And Robin provided a home cooked lunch.
Everyone on board enjoyed the day. One of the highlights of my trip to NZ
Everyone on board enjoyed the day. One of the highlights of my trip to NZ
Written 12 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kyle B
4 contributions
Dec 2020 • Friends
An incredibly warm and welcoming experience, with a thoughtful and delicious lunch provided using some local ingredients. Robin and Rick really make you feel woven into the experience and looked after. Both have excellent cultural competence and deep knowledge of the area. The lagoon they take passengers to is stunning, and includes an historic pā site. Snorkeling gear is provided if you want it. There was never any pressure to do anything you didn't want to do; it was a very relaxed yet exciting adventure - great for anyone and everyone! Highly recommended.
Written 20 December 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks Kyle for this lovely review. We had such fun with your group and thank you so much for coming aboard!
Written 7 January 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Daniel S
2 contributions
Mar 2024 • Couples
Phantom Sailing did not show up to pick us up! We travelled to NZ with the main purpose of visiting the Bay of Islands. We booked with Phantom Sailing 3 months in advance and received a confirmation email the day prior. They never arrived. The gentleman at the Russell Wharf booking office contact them and put them onto me. "Oh sorry, we finished up last week and didn't check future bookings'. Seriously? They did refund my booking, however, there was no offer to rectify their (very big) mistake. Given the extreme short notice, we were unable to book any other sailing option. We travelled so far, at some expense, to be let down.
I did email Phantom Sailing, putting in writing not only how disappointed we were but also providing them with the opportunity to show some level of goodwill. As a business, I would have, at the very least, offered to send a voucher, even some movie tickets, as a small gesture to say sorry. NOTHING. Phantom Sailing have not even bothered to reply to my email. They have completely ignored me.
I have never written a bad review before. I am compelled to inform others if you are considering booking a sailing trip at the Bay of Islands, do so with a reputable company. (There are very good alternatives). Mistakes do happen, even big ones such as we have experienced. It is how the company follows up with the customer that reflects what sort of company they really are.
Book with someone you can trust. Don't trust a 'phantom'.
I did email Phantom Sailing, putting in writing not only how disappointed we were but also providing them with the opportunity to show some level of goodwill. As a business, I would have, at the very least, offered to send a voucher, even some movie tickets, as a small gesture to say sorry. NOTHING. Phantom Sailing have not even bothered to reply to my email. They have completely ignored me.
I have never written a bad review before. I am compelled to inform others if you are considering booking a sailing trip at the Bay of Islands, do so with a reputable company. (There are very good alternatives). Mistakes do happen, even big ones such as we have experienced. It is how the company follows up with the customer that reflects what sort of company they really are.
Book with someone you can trust. Don't trust a 'phantom'.
Written 24 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Very sorry that you had such an unfortunate experience. We did profusely apologise for the mistake we made, gave you and immediate full refund, as well as offer you a free trip on your return to NZ, being that you are from Australia, you will hopefully come again,
Most readers of reviews go to a "terrible review" first to find out what could be so terribly wrong, but when readers take in your review they will also be able to read our over 600 excellent reviews and make their own judgement.
Written 2 May 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
RAC
Kent, UK35 contributions
Mar 2023
Fabulous day.
Phantom is old racing yacht with quite a pedigree, built for speed yet equipped for comfort, owned and cherished by the hosts.
Rick and Robyn are wonderful hosts with a lifetime of sailing experience skippering, cruising and racing yachts around the world which ensures a safe and real sailing experience beyond the usual tourist day trips. The real Mccoy. The small group size keeps the experience personal and special. The real bonus is if you are an experienced sailor yourself, expect to be fully immersed as you are handed the helm for much of the trip.
A fabulous outing for a fraction of the price of chartering your own boat - with lunch, commentary, boat management and pilotage thrown in for free!
Very highly recommended.
Phantom is old racing yacht with quite a pedigree, built for speed yet equipped for comfort, owned and cherished by the hosts.
Rick and Robyn are wonderful hosts with a lifetime of sailing experience skippering, cruising and racing yachts around the world which ensures a safe and real sailing experience beyond the usual tourist day trips. The real Mccoy. The small group size keeps the experience personal and special. The real bonus is if you are an experienced sailor yourself, expect to be fully immersed as you are handed the helm for much of the trip.
A fabulous outing for a fraction of the price of chartering your own boat - with lunch, commentary, boat management and pilotage thrown in for free!
Very highly recommended.
Written 16 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
So nice that you had your perfect day! Thanks for choosing Phantom and for writing this wonderful review - great having you on board!
Written 17 April 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lazzagear
London, UK1,033 contributions
Jan 2020
Rick and Robyn make this such an enjoyable experience. They are both larger than life characters with many years of experience, great stories to tell and are very knowledgeable about both the area and sailing. There were twelve of us guests but plenty of space to sit on deck and despite a very light wind and an overcast day, we had a lovely time. We visited Robertson Island and climbed to the lookout before returning to the boat for a very tasty lunch (some people had bought their own wine to accompany it which, in retrospect, would have been a splendid idea!). One point to note, there is not really any shade on board (apart from behind the sail) which may be an issue for some on a sunny day.
Written 30 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Martin C
San Rafael, CA9 contributions
Jan 2023 • Couples
This was an all-round great trip out of Russell harbor with the owners/skipper, Rick & Robin on their 50' racing sail boat, "Phantom".
Highlight was sailing under a full sail on strong breeze out to Matukananui Island, and sailing on the jib on return.
The island stop was cool with an easy hike to the headland for fabulous views of this unique land mass. The simple paddling from the boat to shore in a light dingy was a reality check of the sailing experience. A opportunity to take a dip in the lagoons aswell.
We thoroughly enjoyed the food spread, all home made fresh cuisine a la Robin and the conversations with both who have deep knowledge & experience on the seas. Rick is a natural raconteur with one sailing story after another, and Robin adds her color of lifelong sailing.
Rick & Robin were warm and inviting, giving those with sailing experience the wheel under the skipper's eye. A lovely day out. Thank you.
Highlight was sailing under a full sail on strong breeze out to Matukananui Island, and sailing on the jib on return.
The island stop was cool with an easy hike to the headland for fabulous views of this unique land mass. The simple paddling from the boat to shore in a light dingy was a reality check of the sailing experience. A opportunity to take a dip in the lagoons aswell.
We thoroughly enjoyed the food spread, all home made fresh cuisine a la Robin and the conversations with both who have deep knowledge & experience on the seas. Rick is a natural raconteur with one sailing story after another, and Robin adds her color of lifelong sailing.
Rick & Robin were warm and inviting, giving those with sailing experience the wheel under the skipper's eye. A lovely day out. Thank you.
Written 16 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
So delighted that you had such a lovely day out. This is what we strive to achieve. Thanks so much for this lovely review!
Written 25 January 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Val
Seattle, WA1 contribution
Nov 2023 • Couples
What a brilliant sail through the gorgeous Bay of Islands with über experienced sailors Rick and Robin. If you're reading this review, I urge you to stop reading and book your trip now. Highlights included the excellent company of the charismatic Rick and Robin with Rick recounting salty tales from his decades of global seafaring; the self-limited number of passengers for an optimal onboard experience; Robin's simple but superb lunch; and an exhilarating 'race' downwind in which R&R demo'd their deep local knowledge, skillful maneuvering, and ability to optimize every whisper of wind to our advantage. If you're looking for an authentic sailing experience rather than a tourist boat packed to the gills, this is it. In short, an absolutely delightful day on the water.
Written 8 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
And glad you enjoyed what we have to offer - a great day of sailing and exploring the bay. Thanks for choosing Phantom!
Written 14 January 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
erikapearce_nz
1 contribution
Feb 2021
We had an awesome day out with Rick and Robin and highly recommend them if you are looking for an authentic way to experience the beautiful Bay of Islands. Phantom is a beautiful boat with a real homely feel. Lunch was excellent and beautifully prepared. We were with only one other couple and it felt like we were out with friends rather than on a commercial charter. If you are looking for a down to earth experience, with great hospitality, this is definitely one to make time for!
Written 11 February 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks Erika for this lovely review. Was so nice to meet you and share the day. Thanks for choosing Phantom!
Written 21 February 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We are staying in Paihia so do we or you provide the transport to Russell?
Written 13 December 2021
We are staying in Paihia so do you provide the ferry to Russell as part of your ticket?
Written 13 December 2021
Hi. We are only going to be in Russell for one day/night. Are you available for Monday 20th Jan
We have 4 adults.
Written 9 January 2020
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