Skip to main content
Photo of Spirit of New Zealand (1 of 2)

Spirit of New Zealand

Trainingpages.ships.cruiseTypeCharter

Spirit of New Zealand (Te Waka Herenga Tangata o Aotearoa) is a steel-hulled, three-masted barquentine built in 1986 for the Spirit of Adventure Trust, a New Zealand not-for-profit dedicated to youth development through sailing. Believed to be the world's busiest youth training ship, she spends up to 340–360 days a year at sea, carrying up to 40 trainees and 14 crew per voyage. Based in Auckland, she mainly sails the Hauraki Gulf, with summer voyages down to the Marlborough Sounds and Nelson. Her core offering is the 10-day Individual Development Voyage for 15–19 year-olds, alongside 5-day school Discovery Voyages, voyages for physically disabled trainees, and public and corporate sails - all run in a no-mobile-phone environment focused on leadership, resilience, and teamwork.

1986
Barquentine
45.2 m
Worldwide

Set sail with Spirit of New Zealand. Experience cruises full of excitement, relaxation and discovery

On board Spirit of New Zealand, hands-on sailing cruises await, where you'll learn to sail without prior experience – steer, navigate, dive and feel the rhythm of the ocean under sail. What makes these cruises special?

See cruises

Authentic hands-on sailing

On this historic tall ship you'll gain practical sailing lessons under the guidance of an experienced crew.

Ecological approach and closeness to nature

Cruises emphasize sustainable contact with the ocean – expect diving from Zodiacs, observing wildlife and relaxing under the stars, without mass tourism, providing deep soul renewal.

Variety of cruise types

From training to tourist – on Spirit of New Zealand you'll get a combination of adventure and luxury, like fine dining under sail or snorkeling in crystal clear waters, building unforgettable memories.

Comfort with a touch of history

Expect unique cabins with bathrooms, a library and bar on board – this distinguishes the ship, offering 'old money' elegance with a splash of salt, ideal for families, couples or groups seeking authentic maritime elegance.

Stepping aboard a tall ship can feel daunting: unfamiliar rules, a new routine and life at sea. Voyage formats vary, so start with one that matches your experience, mobility and preferred level of participation.
Many leisure and introductory voyages welcome first-time sailors, while training and expedition voyages can be more demanding. Check the operator’s age, fitness, mobility, swimming and participation requirements before booking. We help you compare the available information, and the operator confirms whether a voyage is suitable for you.
Training, leisure, expedition or a short sailing experience? Compare dates, routes, ships and operator information to choose a voyage that suits you. If anything is unclear, contact the operator before booking.
Not sure how to prepare, what to pack, how to get to the port?
Don't worry - check our FAQ, you'll find full guidance, packing lists and support before you sail. You focus on dreams of waves and stars, we take care of the rest. If you have questions, our team is here to help!
Safety at sea is a priority - we understand concerns, especially if you're sailing with loved ones or for the first time.
Certification, crew qualifications, accessibility and family suitability are specific to each ship, operator and voyage. Review the operator’s current safety information and joining requirements before booking.

Concerns we know only too well

A sailing cruise should be exciting, not stressful. And yet - we know that feeling. Doubts whether you'll cope. Chaos in offers. Questions about logistics that no one answers straight. We listen to passengers and travellers - we know what holds them back from setting sail.

Illustration of a sailing ship

Sign up before we sail away

Join our crew and let the sea itself remind you of adventure. We'll send you inspiration, new voyages and sea stories that smell of salt and freedom.