Experience the very best of what the Bay of Islands has to offer. Discover the spectacular scenery, captivating wildlife, the iconic Motukōkako - The Hole in the Rock - and Otehei Bay on our premium cruise.
Discover the spectacular scenery of this New Zealand paradise and learn about the area’s rich culture and history with full commentary from our local skipper. When conditions permit, get up close to the dramatic cliffs at Cape Brett and travel through the iconic Hole in the Rock on Motukōkako.
Encounter diverse wildlife in their natural surroundings and keep an eye out for dolphins, whales, birdlife and seals during your cruise. Explore is one of only two operators licensed to view marine mammals in the Bay of Islands.
Your trip includes a stop at Otehei Bay on the Department of Conservation’s Urupukapuka Island and a delicious Island Buffet Lunch^ at the Otehei Bay Café & Bar. You will also have time to explore the island, enjoy a swim at the sandy bay or hire a kayak (during peak season).
Highlights
- Departs from central Paihia and Russell, making it easy to join your day discovering the Bay of Islands
- Scenic cruise on board our purpose-built vessel with large viewing decks and air-conditioned cabin
- Visit the Cape Brett Peninsula and travel through the iconic Hole in the Rock on Motukōkako, when conditions permit
- Opportunity to view marine mammals including dolphins, whales, seals, birdlife and more (conditions permitting) With our Marine mammal viewing guarantee you can come again for free if we don’t spot any marine mammals during your cruise.*
- 1.5 hour stop at Otehei Bay including a delicious Island Lunch at the Otehei Bay Cafe & Bar
- Time to explore Urupukapuka Island, take a swim, snorkel, or hire a kayak (kayaks available in peak season)
- Drinks and snacks available to purchase on board
- Option to extend your stay at Otehei Bay and return on a later Explore ferry at no extra cost (morning cruise only - please contact our reservations team to book your return ferry)
Time
- Departs daily from Paiha at 10am / Russell 10:10am
Duration
What To Bring
- A warm jacket
- Flat soled shoes
- Camera
- Towel
- Swimwear
- Hat
Additional Information
- Children under 5 years travel for free
- The Island Buffet Lunch is subject to minimum numbers. A lunch voucher for a main meal at Otehei Bay Café will be provided if the buffet is not available.
Booking Information
- Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking
- Mobile Vouchers are accepted! - Vouchers can also be presented on your mobile device for this attraction
- Cruise vessel subject to change without notice
- Availability was accurate at the time of booking however, is subject to change due to circumstances out of our control
- Offers and inclusions are subject to change without notice
- We strongly suggest reconfirming your booking with the tour operator within 48 hours of making your booking and prior to making other travel arrangements
- For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher