Superyachts are an increasingly frequent sight in New Zealand’s Bay of Islands thanks to a purpose-built 120-metre pontoon at Opua Wharf which makes tying up here a more attractive option for luxury vessels.
The absence of purpose-built regional mooring facilities has, until now, limited interest in New Zealand as a destination among superyacht owners and skippers and discouraged them from cruising New Zealand waters.
But now the Opua pontoon is enabling the Bay of Islands to host and service superyachts to an extent that was simply not possible previously.
Luxury vessels like the Sea Eagle II, the world’s largest aluminium yacht, can berth here while clearing quarantine before cruising the bay with its pristine teal waters, 144 emerald green islands and caramel beaches. Or undergoing refit and repair work at the Opua Marine Hub, one of the South Pacific’s leading marine service hubs, with nearly 50 specialist businesses on site.
The facility is fully serviced with three-phase power (125 amp and 63 amp), water and pump-out facilities, and rubbish collection. Access is controlled through a keypad-secured entrance and NZ Customs and bio-security staff are based only a short walk away. Professional shore side support is also available.
The Opua pontoon can be booked through Bay of Islands Marina on +64 (0)9 402 7124 or enquiries@boimarina.co.nz