Discover the stunning Bay of Islands and the Hole in the Rock on a scenic 4.5 to 5-hour cruise, keeping an eye out for wildlife along the way. Enjoy a 1.5-hour island stop-over to swim, walk, and relax.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- COVID-19 precautions
- Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 5 hours
- Starting time 12:00 PM
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English
Experience
Highlights
- Discover some of the 144 stunning islands in the Bay of Islands on a scenic cruise
- Journey to the iconic Hole in the Rock and if weather permits, sail through it
- Listen to entertaining live commentary from your local Nature Guide
- Enjoy a 1.5-hour island stop-over and walk, swim, paddle board, kayak or relax
- Keep a lookout for dolphins, whales, or orcas
Full description
Set off on a scenic 4.5 to 5-hour cruise to discover the very best of the Bay of Islands. Experience the spectacular scenery and encounter diverse wildlife in an area soaked in rich culture and history.
Board the black and yellow power cat at Paihia Wharf and be welcomed aboard by the friendly crew. Your crew will deliver a full safety briefing and overview of the trip. Cruise among the 144 islands and enjoy entertaining live commentary from your local knowledgeable skipper. Visit the iconic Hole in the Rock and when conditions permit, you can even travel through it. Spot local wildlife including dolphins, birds, seals and even the occasional whale with a success rate of over 90%.
Your trip will also include a 1.5-hour island stop at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island. Enjoy free time to explore the island. If you wish, you can hire kayaks, or paddleboards (available during summer only) or just relax on the beach. You can also choose to extend your stay on the island and return on a later ferry (only available during summer).
Includes
- 4.5 to 5-hour scenic cruise
- Live commentary in English
- 1.5-hour island stop-over at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island
COVID-19 precautions
Safety measures in place
- All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
- The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Meeting point
Paihia Wharf - Pier 5, Pahia, New Zealand. Meet at the office located at the corner of Williams and Marsden Roads in the centre of Paihia, directly opposite the wharf. Please report to the yellow and black boats on the left-hand side of Paihia wharf.
Open in Google Maps ⟶Important information
Know before you go
- A portion of your fare contributes to marine mammal research and conservation
- You will be able to purchase lunch from the café at Otehei Bay
- Snacks and drinks are also available for purchase onboard the vessel
- From December - April: on the day, you can opt to extend your time on the island (subject to availability) and there is also the option to hire paddleboards and kayaks
- Pick-up can be arranged from Russell Wharf subject to availability; please contact the local operator after booking to coordinate
- The activity requires minimum numbers to operate, in the unlikely even these are not met, you will be offered an alternative date or full refund
