The ocean expedition from Opua, New Zealand to Raoul Island in the Kermadec Island Group to stopover at Minerva Reef and finally onto Tonga 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 280nm leg takes us to Pangaimotu Island near Tongatapu, Tonga. Here, warm waters, palm-fringed beaches, and the relaxed rhythm of island life provide the perfect end to the voyage.
This is an expedition for sailors seeking remote, raw, and unforgettable adventure. Whether it is your first big passage or another milestone in your sailing journey, it will be one to remember.
Sail over 1,200nm across open ocean
Embark on a true Category 0 blue water passage, ideal for those seeking genuine offshore experience. Refine your navigation, sail handling, and helm skills while building sea miles in a professional and supportive environment.
Pass the remote Kermadec Islands
Sail through one of the most untouched regions of the South Pacific. The volcanic peaks of the Kermadec Islands, including Raoul Island, rise steeply from the ocean depths and are home to seabirds, marine mammals, and rich biodiversity. Landing is not permitted, but passing close offers a rare view few ever experience.
Anchor at the Minerva Reefs
Drop anchor inside the calm lagoon of North or South Minerva Reef, a coral atoll in the middle of the ocean. Snorkel vibrant coral gardens, search for crayfish, and enjoy the solitude of this remote haven.
Arrive in tropical Tonga
Make landfall at Pangaimotu Island near Tonga’s capital. Swim in turquoise waters, enjoy a beachside drink, explore the laid-back island culture, and reflect on your passage.
Embrace the rhythm of offshore life
Live by the wind and waves as you steer by the stars, share night watches, and witness bioluminescent seas, glowing sunrises, and moonlit sails.
Opua Marina
New Zealand’s northern gateway for international yachts with full marina services.
Surrounded by the scenic Bay of Islands, perfect for final preparations before departure.
Kermadec Islands
Remote volcanic islands rising steeply from the deep ocean.
Protected for their exceptional biodiversity and home to seabirds, marine mammals, and pristine waters.
Minerva Reefs
Two submerged coral atolls in the heart of the South Pacific.
Sheltered lagoons offer crystal-clear water, rich marine life, and a rare sense of isolation.
Pangaimotu Island
Laid-back tropical island just offshore from Tonga’s capital.
Known for turquoise waters, beachside dining, and a warm South Pacific welcome.
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 Silver Fern, a sleek and spacious sailing yacht crafted for comfort, camaraderie, and coastal exploration. Whether you're navigating hidden bays, sharing stories over dinner on deck, or trimming sails on an offshore leg, Silver Fern offers the ideal balance of relaxation and hands-on adventure. With warm hospitality, inviting living spaces, and a spirit of discovery at its core, every journey on Silverfern feels like coming home—only at sea.
You can travel to the yacht in Opua via a connecting flight from Auckland Airport to Keri Keri Airport (and a 30 minute taxi) or by bus from Auckland to Opua.
6 Apr 2027
Arrive at the vessel at the Bay of Islands Marina in Opua by 3pm
Crew training and safety familiarisation
Crew welcome dinner
7 Apr 2027
Clear Customs and depart Opua Marina around 12pm
Head NE towards Kermadec Islands
8 - 18 Apr 2027
Sail through the Kermadec Islands Group and anchor at North Minerva Reef.
Final leg to Pangaimotu, a small island in the Tongatapu group of Tonga, lying near the capital Nukuʻalofa.
18 Apr 2027
Arrive in Tonga by 12pm
Clear Tonga Customs and Bio-Security
Crew farewell dinner
19 Apr 2027
Depart Tonga out of Fuaʻamotu International Airport, Tonga a 20 minute taxi ride from the nearby wharf.
Inclusions
Your crew package includes; all meals onboard, accommodation onboard, your Ocean Sailing Expeditions crew shirt, marina fees, the use of a PFD (personal floatation device), PLB (personal locator beacon), and a safety tether. Your bedding, a pillow and towel are also included along with suncream.
Exclusions
Your crew package excludes; meals and accommodation ashore, flights and transport to and from departure and arrival ports, alcohol, toiletries, clothing and wet weather gear. Its always recommended that you book flights with date flexibility incase of unforeseen changes due to weather or schedules.
Eligibility
You will need to complete either a 5-hour online or 2-day classroom based Sea Safety and Survival Training Course or equivalent prior to departure.
Accommodation
If you plan to fly in a day earlier, or stay onboard the night after we return to port, an extra night's accommodation is available onboard, prior to departure and/or after arrival as an add-on, for $100 per person, per night. This can be purchased through your We Travel account during the booking process or prior to departure.
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.