Top Bay of Islands Half-day Tours

Let seafaring experts show you the best of New Zealand’s Bay of Islands by land and by water on this adventure cruise. With 144 different isles, it can be hard to know where to start, but your captain and crew know all the best spots to swim, snorkel, stand-up paddleboard, and spot marine life. Hop off at two hand-picked islands for a hike to panoramic lookout points and beachside tea with biscuits.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

There’s no better way to discover the 144 sub-tropical islands that stud the Bay of Islands than on a cruise. With a top limit of just 20 passengers, this intimate boat trip delivers two island stopovers, one at Roberton Island or Twin Lagoons, plus the chance to hike, swim, snorkel, or even try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding. Look out for dolphins along the way.

Whether you’re on a shore excursion or just want to get away from the crowds at the most famous attractions in the Bay of Islands, this half-day tour is ideal. You’ll visit the Kawiti Glowworm Caves with a local Maori guide, take a leisurely walk along boardwalks in Opua Forest, and make a comfort (and photo) stop at Kawakawa’s quirky Hundertwasser Toilets.

When your cruise ship arrives in the Bay of Islands, escape the crowds with a small-group half-day tour to two gorgeous islands. Go snorkeling at pristine island reefs, try stand-up paddle boarding, take a short hike to viewpoints, and look for New Zealand wildlife. You’ll ride on a small motorboat that can access places that large ships cannot go, and hear live commentary from your guide about the region.

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.

Indulge in New Zealands local wine with this wine tour around the Bay of Islands. Start at the Ake Ake Vineyard to explore a family-run operation located just outside Kerikeiri. Tour the vineyard, learn about grape production, and sample drinks including Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Travel to the Marsden Estate Winery & Restaurant. Enjoy a lunch platter while admiring the lake view.

Enjoy a private half-day sightseeing tour of the Bay of Islands region led by a knowledgeable guide. Personalize the itinerary with options including historical sites like the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, The Stone Store and Kemp House in Kerikeri, and Russell — where Europeans first settled in New Zealand. See St Paul's Anglican Church in Paihia, learn about Maori culture at Rewa‘s Village, and admire natural attractions including marine wildlife, Haruru Falls and Rainbow Falls. Or check out wineries and gourmet shops with handmade treats, fine wine and fresh seafood.

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.

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.

Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Stopover Escape the crowds and discover the Bay of Islands Locally owned and operated, with a passion for sharing our beautiful area. Suitable for all ages, families, solo travellers and couples...experience it all! • Cruise among 144 Subtropical Islands • Visit the Hole in the Rock and Cathedral Cave • Lookout for unique Marine Wildlife throughout the day • Interactive commentary and information • Stopover at Roberton Island and the Twin Lagoons • Walk to the island lookout point for stunning views over the Bay of Islands

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…

The Bay of Islands encompasses 140 small, mostly undeveloped islands surrounding North Island. Explore a few highlights on this half-day tour with a local guide. Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the site of the first treaty between British settlers and the indigenous Maori people. You’ll also visit Haruru Falls, Kemp House, Rainbow Falls, Rewa‘s Village, the Stone Store, St. James’ Anglican Church, and more.

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.

This historic Kerikeri tour has been designed especially for cruise ship passengers in the Bay of Islands. Your local guide will take you to many beautiful and interesting sites on a convenient half-day tour, so even visitors with a short stay in the area will see a lot. All sites are easily accessible for travelers with limited mobility, and the tour minivan is air conditioned for your comfort.

Spend the day exploring the Bay of Islands on a full-day cruise from Paihia. Participate in activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, gathering fresh sea food, exploring WWII remains, and trekking across islands to visit ancient Maori fortifications. Refuel with a buffet lunch midday and spend some time relaxing on a secluded beach.

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.

Step aboard our Luxury Catamaran, we set sail and make our way out into the scenic Bay of Islands. Relax and take in the sights with a complimentary tea or coffee as we cruise past some of the 144 islands that make up the Bay of Islands. If you are lucky, we may see dolphins, whales, penguins or even seals on our voyage. Your skipper will select an idyllic bay for some exploration of the island, and fun in the water. Do as much or as little as you want. If you are feeling adventurous, you may want to hike to the nearest viewpoint, or we have snorkelling gear, beach games and paddleboards available for your use. If you simply want to relax, we have plenty of lounging areas onboard for you to take full advantage of or you may want to pick a quiet spot on the beach. At the end of the day, we set sail and return back to Paihia. A complimentary beverage is offered during this afternoon sail. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the fully licenced bar throughout the cruise.