Top Bay of Islands Day Trips

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Enjoy this full-day tour visiting the best of the Far North on board our purpose built coach. Let our drivers immerse you in the culture and history of the Far North while taking in the amazing scenery of places like Te Oneroa-a-Tohe (90 Mile Beach). Cape Reinga with its cultural significance. Te Paki Sand Dunes and the unique scenery that makes up the Far North. Look out for wild horses on your travel and be prepared to sand surf the sand dunes when we stop for sand boarding likely on 90 mile beach (Conditions permitting).

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.

During this tour you will experience an encounter with mighty prehistoric giants that only a couple of centuries ago dominated the vast forests of the North Island of New Zealand. You will see amazing Kauri – our bewitching giants... ... and tiny and defenseless glow warms which bring to the darkness of the underground caves a mysterious bluish glow of an endless starry sky…

See and do exactly what you want in the Bay of Islands with this private yacht charter. Ideal for celebrating a special occasion or just experiencing the natural beauty of the island-filled bay. The Vigilant is available for between two and six hours. Charter includes a fresh picnic lunch, a bottle of wine, and the use of kayaks and snorkeling gear if you like.

The Bay of Islands is one of the most visited attractions of New Zealand’s North Island, and this private 6-hour tour from Paihia combines all its highlights with wine tasting in the Kerikeri wine region. Along the way, discover New Zealand’s colonial history at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, marvel at natural wonders such as Haruru Falls and Wharepuke Falls, and immerse yourself in Maori culture at Rewa‘s Village.

See some of the natural highlights of the Bay of Islands region on this easy half-day tour—from the very large to the very small. Walk through native forest in search of the mighty kauri tree, and visit glowworm caves to see a natural wonder on the other end of the size scale. This is a handy trip from travelers who are short on time but still want to experience New Zealand’s famous nature.

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.*

This full-day Bay of Islands tour with wine tasting is designed for cruise ship passengers who want to make the most of a short stay in the area. You’ll travel with a private guide, so you have the freedom to adjust the itinerary, go at your own pace, and ask questions. Visit several must-see sights around the Bay and some of New Zealand’s best vineyards at Kerikeri, all on an easy day trip.

A unique experience that give you a very personal view of the Bay of Islands and the sailing lifestyle. Sail on a yacht that is a live-aboard home and has a uniques pedigree and history all her own. Hear the stories and create your own special day with all the personal touches. We share our knowledge of sailing through the world and the stories of 24 years of chartering the Bay of Islands. you will feel comfortable and safe on the performance yacht that is unique in the Bay. make this the hightlight of your trip to New Zealand!

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 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.)

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.)

Experience our Private Full Day Shore Excursion tailored exclusively for Cruise Ship Passengers! Embark on a serene journey through the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand as you make your way to the heart of the city. Upon your arrival, meet your seasoned tour guide, ready to lead you on an enchanting tour of Auckland. Discover the awe-inspiring allure of the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki, marvel at the grandeur of Albert Park, and capture iconic moments at landmarks like the Myers Park, Queen Street, Auckland Town Hall, and many more. Indulge in delectable local cuisine and explore a myriad of unique souvenirs to commemorate your journey. Our excursions are meticulously designed to align with your ship's schedule, allowing you to savor every moment without the worry of returning to your ship on time. We'll greet you directly at the port and ensure you return with ample time to relax and relish your day.