Top Bay of Islands Catamaran Cruises

When your ship docks at Waitangi Wharf, explore the beautiful Bay of Islands and see the best of Northland. Travel through the Bay of Islands with your guide and take in top attractions including the Kawiti Glow Worm Caves, roaring Haruru Falls, and Manginangina Kauri Walk, where you can stroll among ancient trees. You can also sample local sweet treats at the Makana Chocolate Factory.

Explore subtropical islands, Maori heritage sites and golden beaches on this cruise around the Bay of Islands from Paihia. Soak up the scenery as you float between the bay’s 144 islands and sail straight through the iconic Hole in the Rock (weather permitting). Along the way, spot dolphins swimming and playing alongside the boat.

There’s no better way to discover the Bay of Islands than from the water, and this half-day cruise from either Paihia or Russell lets you experience island life in depth, with a long stop at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island. You’ll get the chance to look for dolphins, learn about history, ecology, and wildlife from your skipper, and see signature sights including the Hole in the Rock.

This 2-hour experience aboard a tall ship in the Bay of Islands offers a gentle sail in the afternoon. Step aboard the elegant 'R. Tucker Thompson' and enjoy an antipasto platter accompanied by drinks available for purchase at the bar. Round-trip ferry transfer to Russell is included.

There are few more unique ways to see the Bay of Islands than catching the wind and parasailing high above the water. See the Bay’s towns, forests and islands – all the way out to Cape Brett’s famous Hole in the Rock – from the sky on this aerial adventure. Take to the skies with your friends or family on tandem or triple flights. Your children can even go parasailing – this adventure is suitable for all.

Sail the Bay of Islands on a working tall ship aboard the famed ‘R. Tucker Thompson,’ built in the tradition of a 100-year-old Northland schooner. Ply the waters of the pristine bay, where you can help hoist the sails, climb the rigging or simply relax on board, then swim while anchored in a sheltered bay in the maritime park. Enjoy morning tea and a barbecue lunch, with an optional complimentary ferry ride from Paihia to Russell, where your vessel departs.

Embark on a 4.5-hour Cruise and Island tour in the stunning Bay of Islands, where nature's wonders and cultural exploration await. Visit the famous "Hole in the Rock," a breathtaking natural formation showcasing the Bay's unique geology and the Cape Brett Lighthouse Stopover on Roberton Island, a pristine paradise surrounded by crystal-clear waters and lush greenery. Take a short walk to the islands lookout point over the twin lagoons and panoramic views of the Bay of Islands Cruising further through the islands, keep an eye out for Wildlife, Marine Mammals and Native Sea Bird while our knowledgeable guides offer insights into the history, ecology, and Maori culture of the Bay of Islands Our second stopover provides the opportunity to explore the secluded bays. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy, and take a swim or try snorkelling the sheltered water of the bay The perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery, making it a must-do experience in the Bay of Islands

Spend a day relaxing during this catamaran sailing trip, complete with an island stop and lunch. Sail aboard a spacious 40-foot (12-meter) catamaran in the Bay of Islands. Enjoy the scenery as you glide through the waters. Anchor at a secluded bay at an island accessible only by boat. Choose to stroll the island, swim, try stand-up paddle boarding, or snorkel. Relish a delicious catered lunch on beanbags upfront before cruising back to Paihia.

Spend a day cruising through the Bay of Islands aboard a deluxe sailboat that sets sail from Russell. Your captain stops at a picturesque island where you have lunch, and time to snorkel, kayak, swim, and walk to a lookout point. Cruise over to The Black Rocks for photo ops of the volcanic formation, keep an eye out for marine life, and hear commentary from your captain about the region.

Experience nature is at its best on a 40-minute Bay of Islands cruise followed by a kayak excursion. Paddle past mangrove forests to a wondrous waterfall, with the option to depart in the morning, afternoon or at sunset. If you’d like, opt for a paddleboard instead. You’ll view birdlife and learn the cultural history of the Maori people with commentary by a knowledgeable guide.

The Bay of Islands is made up of 144 islands, and the best way to explore them is by boat. On this island-hopping day cruise, you can relax on board a comfortable catamaran while admiring the beautiful views of the sea, islands, and maybe even some dolphins. Snorkel, swim, or paddle board, and stop on land to visit a wildlife sanctuary. This is the easy way to see the bay, as it’s difficult to travel here independently without a boat.

Immerse yourself in the timeless tranquillity of peaceful Paihia. With gorgeous sunset backdrops, our cruise makes for a perfect romantic evening or an escape from busy lives. Sit back and relax while your captain takes you to the best anchorages around the bay. Feel the wind in your hair on this true sailing experience.

Take this extensive full day cruise around the islands of Ipipiri – the Bay of Islands. See all the highlights of this spectacular region including the historical cruise route of the original Cream Trip. The morning will include a unique inner island cruise taking you past the Black Rocks and historic Marsden Cross while you learn about the history of the area through our informative and entertaining commentary. Stop off at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island where you can relax on the beach, explore one of the coastal walking tracks, have a swim or hire a kayak (peak season only). Enjoy a bite to eat and drink from the Otehei Bay Bar & Cafe Following your island stop set off in search of dolphins and other marine life on our Hole in Rock Cruise. Enjoy the spectacular views as we cruise to the famous Hole in the Rock on Motukōkako Island. With our Marine mammal viewing guarantee you can come again for free if we don’t spot any marine mammals during your cruise.*

Enjoy the exclusive use of the luxury sailing catamaran Serenity. Sit back and take in the sights, or if you want to get involved take a turn at the wheel under the guidance of your professional skipper or assist in hoisting the sails. The skipper will select a suitable place to drop anchor and allow you to explore the coast via paddleboard, the beach by foot, hike the scenic island trails, snorkel a lagoon, try your luck catching a fish for lunch, or simply lounge and relax on the spacious decks. The choice is yours to customize the day as you wish. Serenity can comfortably cater to up to 20 guests. Her spacious interior and enclosed cockpit allow ample space for all even if a rain shower passes over. Pickup and drop-offs at your coastal luxury lodge or accommodation provider can be arranged.

Book the whole boat to yourself and up to 19 guests! Have more choice in where you want to go and what you want to do (weather permitting). Swim in the clear waters or take a walk on the island. Enjoy a delicious lunch on the boat. Snorkeling and SUP boards provided. Plenty to choose from before sailing home at the end of the day. Time: 9:30am-Approx. 3:30pm Price includes an individual packed lunch; please contact us for more catering options (Charcuterie boards etc.)

Book the whole boat to yourself and up to 10 guests! Have more choice in where you want to go and what you want to do (weather permitting). Swim in the clear waters or take a walk on the island. Enjoy a delicious lunch on the boat. Snorkeling and SUP boards provided. Plenty to choose from before sailing home at the end of the day. Time: 9:30am-Approx. 3:30pm Price includes an individual packed lunch; please contact us for more catering options (Upgraded lunch menu, charcuterie boards etc.)

Book the whole boat to yourself and up to 15 guests! Have more choice in where you want to go and what you want to do (weather permitting). Swim in the clear waters or take a walk on the island. Enjoy a delicious lunch on the boat. Snorkeling and SUP boards provided. Plenty to choose from before sailing home at the end of the day. Time: 9:30am-Approx. 3:30pm Price includes an individual packed lunch; please contact us for more catering options (Upgraded lunch menu, charcuterie boards etc.)