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Cruisers Celebrated with Memorable Bon Voyage Weekend in Opua
- May 4
- 2 min read
Bay of Islands Marina farewell Pacific-bound cruisers in true New Zealand style
Bay of Islands Marina played host to a memorable weekend as the cruising community gathered for a heartfelt Bon Voyage celebration, marking the beginning of another offshore season for vessels preparing to depart New Zealand shores.
Friday evening set the tone with a vibrant social event hosted at The Swordfish Club, where cruisers, locals and supporters came together on the waterfront for an evening of connection, live music and great food. With full plates, cold drinks flowing, and live band Jam Sandwich delivering the soundtrack, the atmosphere was one of celebration, camaraderie and shared adventure - as crews enjoyed one final big gathering before the next stage of their journeys.
The festivities continued on Sunday morning with a moving traditional farewell blessing overlooking the marina, where a crowd congregated to honour departing cruisers with a culturally rich send-off. Featuring representatives from local iwi Ngāpuhi and a powerful kapa haka performance, the ceremony delivered a memorable farewell for those preparing to head offshore.
Bay of Islands Boatyard Manager Rhys Dempster said the weekend was a true reflection of the region’s hospitality, culture and connection.
“It was fantastic to see both the local community and cruising fleet at the social event on Friday, with Jam Sandwich putting on a superb performance. We’re very thankful to the local kapa haka group that came from Kaikohe to perform and delivered a blessing for the departing cruisers.”
Many of the fleet from the Island Cruising Pacific rally group, were at the Bon Voyage events - choosing Opua to be their departure port. Managing Director of Island Cruising New Zealand, Viki Moore, said the weekend exceeded expectations and left a lasting impression on the cruising fleet.
“We have had a wonderful weekend. The team at Bay of Islands Marina have been super helpful. The kapa haka group and blessing yesterday was really special. Everyone loved that and I think all found it really emotional."
For many cruisers, Bay of Islands Marina and Boatyard also continues to play an important practical role as they prepare for offshore passage. With one of New Zealand’s most comprehensive marine service precincts on-site, including a network of marine trades, technical specialists and essential support services, Opua provides an ideal base for skippers to complete final preparations, maintenance and provisioning before the next stage of their journey. Viki commented,
“The Bay of Islands is a stunning place to cruise while we now wait for our weather window, and the huge range of local marine trades come in really handy for all those last minute boat jobs.”
With yachts now preparing for their Pacific crossings, the Bon Voyage weekend served as both a celebration and a heartfelt farewell, sending crews onward with lasting memories, practical support and the spirit of the Bay of Islands behind them.
Rhys closed with a simple message on behalf of the Bay of Islands Marina and Boatyard team:
“We wish everyone departing calm seas and fair winds and we look forward to seeing everyone again in spring."
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