Booking Sails Villa

  You go down a little driveway, walk down a few steps...unlatch a gate --and paradise opens up! A gorgeous, airy perch over the water. One of a kind and deeply... read more refreshing. We loved it. Really did feel like a nest at the end of each day.

  Many years ago our family counted itself lucky to come across this gem of a hideaway in Opua. We absolutely loved the design features which were created to make you... read more feel as though you were in a sailing vessel looking out onto the stunning Opua Harbour. We marveled at the curved walls, the portholes for windows, the imaginative use of timber and blues of every hue, and a hundred other little decorative features which were clearly the product of a creative mind. But beyond that, the property itself was spotless and the reception was flawless - both crucial aspects of a quality stay. This time around- what a disappointment! Most of the architectural specialties have been "refurbished" (not by an architect is clear to see), port holes have been "replaced", one of the fridges was not cooling, there were cobwebs in the corners, the linens badly needed a refresh. And we could have dealt with all those things had the attitude been as warm and welcoming as our first, but sadly, this too had vanished under new management. Our queries were met with curt retorts, which we felt were unnecessary especially given the price we were paying- approx 400/night NZD. Prior to our time of departure our hostess just sat outside waiting with a surly expression for us to leave. Conversation does not seem to be a strong point. Fortunately the view is still top notch and good weather meant... Many years ago our family counted itself lucky to come across this gem of a hideaway in Opua. We absolutely loved the design features which were created to make you feel as though you were in a sailing vessel looking out onto the stunning Opua Harbour.
We marveled at the curved walls, the portholes for windows, the imaginative use of timber and blues of every hue, and a hundred other little decorative features which were clearly the product of a creative mind. But beyond that, the property itself was spotless and the reception was flawless - both crucial aspects of a quality stay.
This time around- what a disappointment! Most of the architectural specialties have been "refurbished" (not by an architect is clear to see), port holes have been "replaced", one of the fridges was not cooling, there were cobwebs in the corners, the linens badly needed a refresh.
And we could have dealt with all those things had the attitude been as warm and welcoming as our first, but sadly, this too had vanished under new management. Our queries were met with curt retorts, which we felt were unnecessary especially given the price we were paying- approx 400/night NZD. Prior to our time of departure our hostess just sat outside waiting with a surly expression for us to leave. Conversation does not seem to be a strong point.
Fortunately the view is still top notch and good weather meant we had a very lovely time in the BoI but we will not be returning to Crows Nest Villas. There are many properties nearby in similar price range that are outstanding in both presentation and service. More

  We stayed at Sails Villa for 2 weeks, had two lots of friends to stay and what a joy it all was. It was money so well spent ... read more Views were amazing day and night. Stars at night, sea glistening with loads of sailing boats bobbing up and down, ferries transporting cars to Rusell and the occasional helicopter landing on its lovely cruiser. The villa was fully equipped, so we cooked and stayed in, we barbecued and we just did nothing. Gail was so kind and it was like meeting a friend. Not the cheapest but in every aspect the best. Val and John Cambridge UK