Red sloop sailing across harbor with city skyline backdrop

Authentic Auckland Yacht Racing Aboard Iconic Vessels

Experience Steinlager 2 or Lion New Zealand on organized RNZYS races departing from Auckland CBD — thrilling, accessible, and unforgettable.

Featured Trips & Races

Handpicked sailing experiences on Steinlager 2 and Lion New Zealand designed for sailors and spectators.

Auckland

Thrill of Friday Afternoon Yacht Racing on Steinlager 2 in Auckland Harbor

Join the iconic Steinlager 2 or Lion New Zealand for an exhilarating 3-4 hour yacht race in Auckland Harbor. Perfect for ages 13+, this Friday afternoon adventure blends maritime history, competitive sailing, and a spirited prize-giving party.

Thrill of Friday Afternoon Yacht Racing on Steinlager 2 in Auckland Harbor

Sail Into Summer: Experience The Christmas Race in Auckland with Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron

Set sail on iconic yachts Steinlager 2 and Lion New Zealand at Auckland's thrilling annual Christmas Race. Join the crew or spectate this festive sailing spectacle on New Zealand’s famous Waitematā Harbour.

About NZ Sailing Trust

NZ Sailing Trust is a sailing organisation based in the CBD, Auckland, offering public access to historic and high-performance yachts. The Trust operates experiences aboard the iconic Steinlager 2 and Lion New Zealand, making competitive yacht racing and spectator sailing available to the public. NZ Sailing Trust facilitates participation in RNZYS (Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron) events, including evening races and special fixtures such as the December 17th Christmas Race.

Trips are structured to suit a broad range of participants: the Friday Afternoon Yacht Racing experience runs 3–4 hours and welcomes guests aged 13 and up, while the Christmas Race provides a seasonal event open to crew and spectators with a prizegiving ceremony following the race. Each sailing experience departs from Auckland CBD waters and places passengers on established race yachts under experienced oversight.

The Trust focuses on delivering authentic race-day conditions on well-known New Zealand yachts, collaborating with RNZYS where applicable. All communications describe trip durations, age guidance, event dates, and post-race prizegiving to help guests plan. Public information provided by the Trust highlights the yachts used, scheduled race nights, and special event dates to ensure transparency and clear expectations for visitors and crew applicants.

Group of sailors smiling on deck under blue sky at sea

Sleek racing yacht sailing off an island coastline

NZ Sailing Trust — Auckland Sailing Experiences

NZ Sailing Trust offers curated yacht racing and spectator experiences in Auckland CBD aboard two iconic vessels: Steinlager 2 and Lion New Zealand. For sailors, enthusiasts, and visitors seeking authentic Auckland sailing and yacht racing Auckland, the Trust provides access to RNZYS (Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron) evening races and special seasonal events.

Signature Trips

Friday Afternoon Yacht Racing — A 3–4 hour RNZYS evening race experience for participants aged 13 and up. Expect race-day conditions, hands-on roles for crew, and a lively post-race prizegiving party. Ideal for those looking to join organized yacht racing without private ownership.
The Christmas Race (Dec 17) — A festive RNZYS race featuring Steinlager 2 and Lion New Zealand. Open to both crew and spectators, with a prizegiving ceremony to close the event.

Why choose NZ Sailing Trust for Auckland yacht experiences?

Direct access to historic and competitive yachts: Steinlager 2 and Lion New Zealand.
Participation in races affiliated with Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (RNZYS).
Clear trip details: durations (3–4 hours), age guidance (13+ for evening races), and event dates (for example, the December 17 Christmas Race).
Departures operating in Auckland CBD waters for central access and easy planning.

What to expect on race day

Pre-race briefing and safety orientation.
Onboard roles that suit different experience levels, from spectator positions to active crew duties.
Post-race prizegiving and opportunities to connect with fellow sailors and spectators.

Practical information & booking tips

Arrive early to ensure timely boarding from Auckland CBD.
Check event-specific age requirements and race durations before booking.
Confirm whether the trip is for crew participation or spectator seating for comfort and safety preparation.

Keywords for search

Auckland sailing, yacht racing Auckland, Steinlager 2, Lion New Zealand, RNZYS, Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, Friday Afternoon Yacht Racing, Christmas Race Auckland, Auckland CBD sailing.

Final note

NZ Sailing Trust focuses on making competitive sailing accessible by operating well-known yachts in RNZYS events and seasonal races. Prospective participants should review trip summaries for durations, age guidance, and prizegiving details to select the right race experience in Auckland.

Close-up bow of red racing yacht cutting through waves

Book a Race-Day Experience in Auckland CBD

Secure a spot aboard Steinlager 2 or Lion New Zealand for an RNZYS race session — limited places for authentic sailing action and prizegiving celebration.