Opua to the kermadec Islands to minerva Reefs to Tonga / 1,260nm / 28 mar - 10 apr 2025

14 days / Cat O sailing expedition / Event #2506 / silver fern: last 2 CREW positions available

Overview

The Category 0 ocean expedition from Opua, New Zealand to Raoul Island in the Kermadec Island Group to Minerva Reef and finally onto Tonga is a true adventurers expedition. We depart Opua in the Bay of Islands and head 540nm northeast to the Kermadec Islands. The islands are uninhabited and the northernmost outpost of New Zealand. They have been used as stopover points since as early as the 10th century.

We’ll sail past Raoul Island, before setting off on for the next stop 330nm further north to anchor for a stopover at the stunning Minerva Reefs. These two submerged atolls have been the subject of many shipwrecks over the centuries with some still visible inside of the reefs. We’ll anchor inside the reefs and do some snorkelling before continuing on the final 280nm leg to Pangaimotu Island in Tonga.

Passage plan

Event registration

• Secure your place on this adventure with a 20-50% deposit / All prices in AUD

• Current price release: Final Release

Expedition Description

Opua

Opua, nestled in the heart of the Bay of Islands, is a charming harbour town renowned for its rich maritime history and vibrant sailing community. As one of the main entry points for yachts arriving in New Zealand, Opua offers excellent facilities and a welcoming atmosphere for sailors. The town's history dates back to the early 19th century when it served as a vital trading post for whalers and settlers. Today, Opua is the gateway to the stunning Bay of Islands, an area known for its 144 picturesque islands, clear turquoise waters, and abundant marine life. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, enjoy world-class fishing, or simply relax on the pristine beaches. Opua's blend of historical significance, modern amenities, and natural beauty makes it an essential stop for any sailing adventure in New Zealand.

Kermadec Islands

The Kermadec Islands are a remote and pristine archipelago located in the South Pacific Ocean, approximately 1,000 km northeast of New Zealand. These volcanic islands are part of New Zealand's largest marine reserve, boasting some of the most untouched and diverse marine ecosystems in the world. The history of the Kermadec Islands includes early Polynesian explorers and later European settlers, but today, they remain largely uninhabited and protected. Sailing to the Kermadec Islands offers a unique opportunity to witness breathtaking landscapes, including rugged coastlines, active volcanoes, and lush subtropical forests. The surrounding waters are teeming with marine life, making it a paradise for divers and snorkellers. The Kermadec Islands' remote location and pristine environment provide a rare chance to experience one of the last true wildernesses on Earth.

Minerva Reefs

The Minerva Reefs, consisting of North and South Minerva, are two submerged atolls located in the South Pacific Ocean, halfway between Tonga and Fiji. These remote reefs are known for their stunning underwater scenery and rich marine biodiversity. The history of the Minerva Reefs is marked by shipwrecks and tales of early explorers navigating these treacherous waters. Today, the reefs are a popular stop for adventurous sailors and divers seeking to explore their crystal-clear lagoons and vibrant coral formations. The Minerva Reefs offer excellent opportunities for snorkelling, diving, and fishing, with an abundance of colourful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures. The secluded and pristine nature of the Minerva Reefs makes them a unique and rewarding destination for those looking to experience the untouched beauty of the South Pacific.

Tonga

Tonga, known as the Friendly Islands, is an enchanting archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, comprising over 170 islands. With a rich history dating back to ancient Polynesian explorers and the arrival of Captain Cook in 1773, Tonga offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Sailing to Tonga provides the opportunity to explore its stunning landscapes, from lush rainforests and volcanic peaks to pristine beaches and coral reefs. The warm and welcoming Tongan people are known for their traditional dances, music, and feasts, providing an authentic cultural experience. The clear waters around Tonga are perfect for diving, snorkelling, and whale watching, especially during the humpback whale migration season. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty, Tonga is a must-visit destination for sailors seeking an unforgettable South Pacific adventure.

ACTIVITIES INCLUDED

• Adventure ashore

• Coastal exploring

• Dining out

• Fishing

Click the links above to review examples from previous sailing events across New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific Islands.

HERE’S WHAT YOU WILL EXPERIENCE ONBOARD

Click the links above to review examples from previous sailing events across New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific Islands.

itinerary

You can travel to Opua via Whangarei or Keri Keri Airports on or before the 28th of March 2025. When you arrive we'll familiarise you with the yacht, systems and safety equipment and you will join us for a crew welcome dinner. Our crew will reassemble on the 29th of March and we will aim to depart (subject to weather) on the 30th March 2025, when we will clear Customs and then depart Opua and sail northeast towards The Kermadec’s for an overnight stop* and to go ashore. When we depart Raoul Island we’ll sail past the other islands in the group, before setting a northerly course for the Minerva Reefs. We’ll aim to visit both of the Minerva Reefs, where we’ll anchor in the lagoons, explore the reef at low tide, relax and snorkel.

The final leg is to Pangaimotu, a small island in the Tongatapu group of Tonga, lying near the capital Nukuʻalofa. It is reachable by a 10-minute boat trip from Nukuʻalofa. Aside from the beaches, a centrepiece of the island's attraction is a wreck jumping from and snorkelling around the hull of the upturned ship 50 metres off the island's main beach. The island also contains the Big Mama Yacht Club, the Pangaimotu Island Resort and a vanilla plantation. The Pangaimotu reef was declared a national marine reserve in 1989. 

You are welcome to stay onboard from the date you arrive in Opua, but if you plan to arrive prior to the 28th of March, you will need to arrange accommodation ashore. You can stay onboard when we arrive in Tonga and depart out of Fuaʻamotu International Airport, Tonga on or after 10th of April 2025. It is on the south side of the main island, Tongatapu, 20 km from the capital of Tonga, Nukuʻalofa.

• Arrive at the vessel in Opua by 4pm on 28/3/25

• Crew welcome dinner on 28/3/25

• Crew training and safety familiarisation 29/3/25

• Depart Opua Marina around 12pm on 30/3/25

• Arrive in Tonga by 3pm on 9/4/25

• Crew farewell dinner on 9/4/25

• Depart Tonga on 10/4/25

Inclusions

Your crew package includes; all meals onboard, crew meals in Opua and in Tonga, 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 is also included along with suncream.

Exclusions

Your crew package excludes; accommodation ashore, flights and transport to and from departure and arrival ports, alcohol, toiletries, clothing and wet weather gear. You will need to complete a 2-day Sea Safety and Survival Training Course or equivalent at least 1 month prior.

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.

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