The ocean expedition from Opua, New Zealand to Raoul Island in the Kermadec Island Group to stopover at Minerva Reef and finally onto Fiji is a true ocean adventurers expedition. This blue water adventure offers hands-on offshore sailing, celestial navigation, and the chance to explore some of the most untouched parts of the South Pacific.
Departing from Opua in the Bay of Islands, we sail 540nm northeast to the Kermadec Islands, New Zealand’s northernmost outpost. These rugged, uninhabited volcanic islands rise from the deep ocean and teem with birdlife and marine mammals. Landing is restricted, but passing Raoul Island provides a rare view of this protected wilderness.
We continue 330nm north to the Minerva Reefs, two submerged atolls with crystal-clear waters and abundant sea life. This spectacular anchorage offers snorkelling over coral gardens, exploring shallow lagoons, and enjoying the solitude of a remote ocean haven.
The final leg to Vuda Marina, Fiji, brings warmer seas and a tropical welcome. Blending offshore challenge with remote reef discovery, this is a true adventurer’s journey—perfect for sailors seeking blue-water miles and rare Pacific encounters.
Experience true bluewater cruising across the South Pacific
Spend two weeks at sea aboard a classic motor yacht as you journey through one of the most remote and beautiful stretches of ocean in the world.
Visit the legendary Minerva Reefs
Anchor at these rarely visited submerged coral atolls, known for their untouched beauty, vibrant marine life, and crystal-clear lagoons ideal for snorkelling and swimming.
Unplug and reconnect with the rhythm of the sea
Step away from daily distractions and immerse yourself in the serenity of ocean life with glowing sunrises, starlit skies, and peaceful days on the water.
Enjoy life aboard Sea Breeze III in comfort and style
Relax in spacious indoor and outdoor lounges, share freshly prepared meals with fellow crew, and unwind with all the comforts needed for an extended ocean crossing.
Witness wildlife in open waters
Keep an eye out for dolphins, seabirds, flying fish, and migrating whales as you cruise through the South Pacific’s rich marine environment.
Arrive in Vuda Point, Fiji
Complete your journey in the calm, protected anchorage of Vuda Point, where lush greenery, tranquil waters, and the natural beauty of Fiji provide a warm and peaceful welcome.
Opua Marina, Opua, New Zealand
First port of entry for yachts arriving into New Zealand from the Pacific, welcoming generations of offshore sailors.
Lively cruising hub, home to the Opua Cruising Club, sailmakers, provisioning services, and a warm, international community.
Minerva Reefs
Exceptional snorkelling and fishing, with clear waters, coral heads, and abundant reef fish including prized crayfish.
Swimming in a remote atoll lagoon, often completely alone—no land, just a ring of reef in the middle of the South Pacific.
Rite of passage anchorage for offshore sailors between Tonga, Fiji, and New Zealand, offering brief but magical respite on a long passage.
Vuda Marina, Fiji
First landfall for many arriving yachts from New Zealand, offering a warm Fijian welcome with music, shell leis, and heartfelt hospitality.
Bustling with friendly cruisers, marina staff, and essential services for rest, reprovisioning, and relaxing into island life.
Acting as watch captain (day and night), helming, navigating, checking weather and monitoring AIS and radar and for both traffic and rain squalls. View gallery
Downloading and analysing the latest weather forecasts and calculating best route to destination. View gallery
Navigating, hazard identification, entering waypoints and calculating updated ETA’s. View gallery
Watch roster planning, matching responsibility to experience, crew management and communication. View gallery
Familiarisation of all safety procedures, sail planning, storm preparation planning and abandon ship procedures. View gallery
Advice on how to take responsibility for managing clothing, hydration, sleep and nutrition to maintain your health and well being aboard. View gallery
Planning our arrival and route to safe harbour including timing with daylight (if required), weather factors, navigational hazards, communications / customs and sail/motor arrival plan. View gallery
Hoisting, trimming and reefing both upwind (main, genoas, and jibs) and downwind sails (poled out headsails, spinnakers, gennakers and code 0’s (subject to weather). View gallery
Use of PDF’s (Personal Flotation Devices), PLB’s (Personal Locator Beacons), safety tethers, dan buoy’s, storm drogue, liferaft and any other equipment required to ensure you remain safe in all conditions. View gallery
Onshore activities include hiking and bushwalking to scenic lookouts, exploring local towns, and discovering the unique charm of each destination. Enjoy cultural immersion through local traditions, relax with games, or uncover hidden gems as you explore islands. View gallery
Coastal exploring offers the thrill of venturing to remote places using a RIB, uncovering hidden gems like pristine reefs, secluded beaches, and winding rivers. Discover shipwrecks teeming with history, indulge in beach combing for unique treasures, and experience the untouched beauty of coastal landscapes. View gallery
Dining out offers the chance to enjoy local flavours, explore regional specialties, and experience unique culinary traditions. From seaside cafes to hidden gems, each meal is an opportunity to savour the culture and cuisine of the destination. View gallery
Fishing provides an opportunity to connect with nature, whether casting a line from the shore or exploring deeper waters. Enjoy the thrill of the catch, the serenity of the surroundings, and the chance to bring home a fresh, rewarding meal. View gallery
Exploring historic places offers a glimpse into the past through ancient sites, architectural landmarks, and local stories. These visits bring history to life, connecting you with the culture, traditions, and events that shaped each destination. View gallery
Kayaking
Kayaking allows you to glide through serene waterways, explore hidden coves, and get up close to nature. It’s a peaceful yet adventurous way to discover rivers, coastlines, and marine life from a unique perspective. View gallery
Snorkelling offers an up-close view of vibrant underwater ecosystems, from colourful coral reefs to fascinating marine life. It's a relaxing and immersive way to explore the wonders beneath the surface of the water. View gallery
Wildlife watching offers unforgettable encounters with nature, from observing birds and dolphins to spotting whales, turtles, and sharks. Discover diverse marine life, from playful fish to delicate starfish, in their natural habitats. View gallery
Swimming
Swimming offers refreshing escapes in stunning settings, from crystal-clear bays and tranquil rivers to diving off the back of the boat into azure waters. It's a perfect way to relax and be rejuvenated by nature. View gallery
Step aboard Te Kaihopara, a purpose-built South Pacific cruising ketch designed for modern explorers seeking connection, challenge, and discovery at sea. From remote coastlines to open ocean passages, Te Kaihopara delivers comfort, capability, and adventure in equal measure. With a strong, ocean-tested build, hands-on sailing opportunities, and space to relax and reflect, every voyage is a chance to immerse yourself in the rhythm of the ocean and the raw beauty of the natural world.
With $1m spent on a refit, new electronics, a full rewire and the latest safety equipment in 2023, the yacht meets the highest safety standards.
With a generous galley, 4 fridges and a freezer, the yacht is able to be well provisioned for long distance cruising.
With a saloon and wheelhouse that seat up to 16 people, there are ample indoor and outdoor seating choices.
Berth and Cabin and options
Moana Stateroom: Booking option for couple or up to 3 singles. Private ensuite. 240v and 12v power outlets. 4 large and 2 small port hole windows. Private ensuite.
Tiritiri Suite: Booking option for couple or up to 3 singles. Private ensuite. 240v and 12v power outlets. 1 small port hole window. Private ensuite.
Mokohinau Cabin: Booking option for up to 4 occupants with private ensuite. 240v and 12v power outlets. 2 small port hole windows. Private ensuite.
You can travel to Opua via Whangarei or Keri Keri Airports to arrive at the yacht by 10am on 2 May 2027.
2 May 2027
Arrive at the vessel in Bay of Islands Marina by 10am
Crew training and safety familiarisation
Enjoy crew welcome dinner.
3 May 2027
Final preparations
Clear Customs and then depart Opua
3 - 16 May 2027
Sail to Fiji, sailing through Kermadec Islands and 1 - 2 night stopover at Minerva Reefs along the way
16 May 2027
Arrive in Vuda Marina, Fiji
Clear customs
Crew farewell dinner and stay onboard overnight
17 May 2027
Depart Fiji via Nadi International Airport
Inclusions
Your package includes; all meals onboard, accommodation onboard and marina fees. Wash and dry laundry services are available onboard.
Wholesale accommodation rates Your crew package includes to accommodation ashore, at the First Landing Resort at exclusive Ocean Sailing Expeditions, discounted wholesale rates, after arrival in Fiji. Add extra days to your Fiji experience and extend your break or book your family in while your on the ocean. Information for this will be sent out following registration.
Exclusions
Your package excludes; accommodation and meals ashore, flights and transport to and from departure and arrival ports. Its always recommended that you book flights with date flexibility incase of unforeseen changes due to weather or schedules. Accommodation options if you want to stay ashore either side of trip: AirBNB, Booking.com, Wotif & HomeAway.
Book and pay
Click Book Now button above to secure your place. Choose from Pay in Full or deposit options. Direct debit from bank account, debit card or credit card options available. Pay in the currency of your choice.
Personalise your payment plan
If you want to set up a payment plan, contact us here and let us know your desired deposit (minimum 10% required) and your preferred payment. You can make up to 18 payments, for the balance. You can choose the frequency and customise each payment amount.
Not ready to pay, but want to secure your place?
Reserve your place onboard today, with no obligation. We’ll send the confirmation details, itinerary, deposit invoice and be sure to answer all your questions, while you finalise your plans before confirming. Reserve here.
100% cancellation guarantee
If you book and then cancel prior to an event, for any reason, 100% of your payment will be issued as a credit, that you can apply to any future event/s. For a full refund of sailing trip, flights and hotel costs, we recommend travel insurance. View Terms & Conditions.
Members
Check for Member's availability here before booking this event, using Members Benefits. When you book Reserve your place here.