Bay of Islands 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.

When your ship docks in Waitangi Wharf, explore the beautiful Bay of Islands and see the best of New Zealand’s spectacular North Island. Travel through the Bay of Islands with your guide and take in top attractions including Kawakawa and the Kawiti glowworm caves. Explore the Puketi Forest’s rich ecological diversity, sample New Zealand sweet treats at the Makana Chocolate Factory, and gaze out over the Haruru Falls and the Waitangi River.

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).

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 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.

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

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.

A fantastic tour designed to see the two highlights without taking up your whole day. Perfectly suited for Cruise Ship Passengers visiting for the day. Enjoy seeing the sights of our spectacular town as we venture out to the two attractions. Glow Worm Caves & Waterfalls

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.

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.

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.

Explore the Bay of Islands from the seat of a 350 Chev Trike for a fun-filled and memorable experience. You can choose from three different routes that include some of the area’s must-see sights, or combine them all for a longer trip. Your driver keeps you safe and gives you local insights into the Paihia area. This tour is wheelchair accessible, so anyone can join.

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

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.

Spend an evening immersed in Maori culture with a traditional ‘hangi’ dinner and live performance, held at the historically important signing site of the Waitangi Treaty. Enact a warrior challenge on a bush walk and watch energetic Maori music and dance. For dinner, feast on a multilayered meal cooked using the ancient hangi pit oven method.

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.

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 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 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.

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.