Step aboard M.Y. Beluga, our 35 metre explorer-style yacht

Day 1: Auckland to Great Barrier Island
Cruise across the Hauraki Gulf to Great Barrier Island. Settle in, set up your gear with the crew and talk through the plan for the week, then enjoy a relaxed first evening at anchor in one of the island’s sheltered western harbours.

Day 2: Great Barrier Island to the Bay of Islands
Begin with a morning session on Great Barrier’s outer reefs, where kelp-covered rock and boulder grounds hold snapper and kingfish. After breakfast on board, cruise north along the Northland coast to the Bay of Islands.

Day 3: Bay of Islands to Doubtless Bay
Spend the morning spearfishing the outer islands of the Bay of Islands, where current-swept points attract kingfish, then continue north to Doubtless Bay. The nearby village of Mangōnui is well known for its waterfront fish and chips.

Day 4: Doubtless Bay to the Three Kings
An early departure takes you past Cape Reinga to the Three Kings Islands, arriving in time for an afternoon session in some of New Zealand’s clearest water and a first look at the pinnacles you’ll hunt over the coming days.

Days 5–8: The Three Kings Islands
Weather permitting, Beluga is based at the Three Kings for four days. Uninhabited and rarely visited, the islands are known for deep pinnacles, sheer walls, strong current and large yellowtail kingfish. With two or three sessions a day, the crew move the tender between sites to suit the tide and conditions, and your catch is prepared on board each evening. On the afternoon of Day 8, Beluga heads south.

Day 9: Poor Knights Islands or Great Barrier Island
Cruise to the Poor Knights Islands. The main islands are a no-take marine reserve, perfect for a dive or snorkel among the caves and arches, while the deep pinnacles outside the reserve offer a final chance at a big kingfish. Great Barrier Island is an excellent alternative.

Day 10: Return to Auckland
Cruise south to Auckland, with a final lunch on board along the way.