Top Bay of Islands Water Tours

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.*

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!

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.

Hop aboard Vigilant and enjoy a beautiful private afternoon sailing in the Bay of Islands. We only take up to 10 passengers, the small group allows you to lounge on the yacht comfortably and enjoy the islands privately. Our skipper lives here in Russell and knows plenty about it's history which they will be happy to share with you. Vigilant is a beautiful traditional 42 ft Cutter rig yacht with a wineglass transom, teak decks, and a swamp kauri wooden interior. Enjoy an adventure away from the crowds of sightseers. Here, you can steer your own experience by helping the skipper at the helm, hoisting the sails or, if you prefer, just relaxing on deck while you journey to an island. If you wish, you can swim on one of the beaches, during our short stop over. Comb the shores and walk around to see some great lookouts with panoramic views of the islands.

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.)

Spend the day cruising the clear blue waters of the Bay of Islands, hopping from beach to beach – or spend it snorkelling around local reefs and shipwrecks – or spend it hiking through the pristine native bush on a handful of the Bay’s 140-plus islands. On this private charter in the Bay of Islands, do what you to do. Instead of sticking to a tour operator’s preset schedule, tailor your half- or full-day itinerary in the Bay to your own tastes.

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.)