Charter the ship

A unique experience for special occasions
Enjoy the ship privately with your friends, family or work. Let us create an unforgettable adventure for you. We can take up to 47 people on board.

The Ship is available for

Book now for your Christmas Function. Limited availability - Prices starting from $1890.

Day Sail Charter

For special occasions, it doesn’t get more special than this! Charter the R. Tucker Thompson for your own group and see where the wind takes you.

Our classic day sail in the Bay departs from Russell Wharf at 10.00 am and returns at 3.30 pm. It’s a great option for groups looking for a social club day out, a family get together or a special event. We are happy to discuss an earlier start or later finish to suit your programme. Our pricing is for the ship fully crewed and regular meals but we can discuss options for different menus depending on your occasion.

Charter costs

Private charter (5.5 hours)
From $3,972.50

Extras
Per additional hour – $595
Morning Tea & BBQ Lunch – $42 pp
BBQ Lunch – $30pp

Sundowner Sail Charter

Departing at 4.00 pm, you can charter the ship for 2 or 3 hours at the end of the day and enjoy the sun as it drops below the horizon. Great for a romantic occasion or work function.

Our standard antipasto platter and bar is ideal if you are planning dinner later. If you want something more substantial, we can add a BBQ chicken meal or you are welcome to bring your own catering on board (minimum 3 hours for BBQ Dinner option.) We have a bar available or we can charge corkage for your own drinks. 

Charter costs

Private charter (2 hours) From $1,890

Extras
Per additional hour – $595
Antipasto Platter – $18 pp
BBQ Dinner – $30 pp (Min. 3 hour charter)

Weddings

Weddings and vow renewals on board the R. Tucker Thompson will be truly special. There is nothing more romantic than being on a tall ship!

Let us help you make your wedding truly special. We carry a maximum of 47 passengers so if you are looking for a small, intimate occasion the ship is perfect. We work with most of the local wedding celebrants (we can refer you if required) and are happy to look at special requests. Whether you want to do a sail after the service itself, or perform the ceremony on an island as part of a day sail, we can work with you to realise your dreams.

Charter costs

The rates given for the ship charter above will give you a guide as to the cost of the charter and depending on requirements, we will quote for administration costs as well. We are happy to quote for special meals or corkage to bring your own drinks.

Leadership

The ship has been used for Leadership and team building activities since the 1990s. Whether it is a multi-day voyage or a single day on board, we are able to develop activities that improve confidence, provide practical team building opportunities as well test leadership abilities. Sail training is an international recognised technique for personal and professional development and has been used for decades. We can cater for small groups of up to 10 for multi-day voyages and groups of up to 47 on day sailings.

Alternatively our 3-day Discovery Voyage is ideal for people looking for a training opportunity with a difference. 

Charter costs

The rates given for the ship charter above will give you a guide as to the cost of the charter, quote may vary depending on add-ons and requirements. Contact us for more information.

Discovery Voyage Charter

Stay overnight, sail and explore the world famous Bay of Islands for 3 or 4 days on board the iconic R. Tucker Thompson tall ship. For a family experience like no other, a team-building exercise that will last for years to come, or simply for a group of friends.

Usually the base for our trainees on board 7-day voyages, now it is your chance to step on board and discover what it is like to explore the Bay of Islands on board a tall ship. This is a unique group experience you’ll remember forever. Who knows, you might discover something about yourself too. We take up to 10 passengers in total. Looking to stay longer? Talk to us about your options. 

Charter costs

Discovery Voyage (3 days)
From $21,520 for full ship hire

3-day ship hire, dates subject to availability. Costs include hire of fully surveyed vessel and professional crew, bunk-style accommodation and all meals for 10 passengers.

Special enquiry

The R. Tucker Thompson has had charter opportunities for special events such as films and much more. Contact us to talk through other options.