Top Bay of Islands On the Water

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’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.

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.

Stand on the spot where New Zealand’s founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi, was signed in 1840. Find out how this document was forged with admission to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Your day pass is valid for two consecutive days and includes an informative guided tour, an introductory film, a cultural performance, and full access to the historic site.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

Usual Summer Schedule: 10am, 1pm & 4pm. Times may vary please check Your Kayaking/Paddleboarding can be dry, but bring a towel, change of clothes or wear swimwear (you may enjoy getting up closer to the waterfall than you plan) Bring a warm jacket, camera, sunscreen, sun protection, drinking water, nibbles etc in a small bag.

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.

By cruising with us and you are helping to protect our wild dolphins! A portion of every fare contributes directly to marine mammal conservation and to our children's marine education program Protect the future We are a small, local family owned and operated wildlife cruise. Join us on our marine wildlife conservation vessel. On board help to set sails or sit back and relax.Time to take a deep breath and unwind.

Electric boat hire is enormously popular in the rest of the world but ours are the very first electric boats for hire in New Zealand. Our boats are very easy to drive, no experience or license is required. The "Akaroa" boat is the easiest to drive so we recommend that one for complete beginners. We are in the most perfect, sheltered location, the winding Kerikeri river offers a new vista around every bend and is teeming with wildlife. The silent motor allows you to get up close to wildlife without disturbing them. We have a choice of five different boats to suit singles, couple and groups of up to 7 people. We have enough boats for a maximum of 21 people at a time. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

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 Rock overnight cruise in the Bay of Islands is the only overnight cruise in the area to offer such a wide range of activities, including kayaking, fishing, snorkeling, island walks, and more. Enjoy adventure activities as well as time to relax in peaceful nature. As this is an all-inclusive tour you don’t need to worry about any logistics. Just show up ready for fun.

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.

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.