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Small Group Tour: Bay of Islands Explorer Experience
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Small Group Tour: Bay of Islands Explorer Experience

5.0(5 reviews)
13 hour(s)
English
Skip the line
Auckland, New Zealand

Discover the iconic Hole in the Rock by boat

Enjoy island time with swimming walking or relaxing

Spot dolphins whales seals and coastal birdlife

Learn local stories from an expert nature guide

Price start from

244.43

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Join a small group day tour from Auckland and journey north to the stunning Bay of Islands, one of New Zealand’s most loved coastal regions. As you travel, enjoy engaging commentary while crossing the Auckland Harbour Bridge and passing through rolling farmland, charming towns, and lush subtropical landscapes. The scenic drive sets the tone for a relaxed and informative day, offering plenty of opportunities to appreciate the natural beauty of the North Island on the way to the coast.

Once in the Bay of Islands, step aboard a scenic cruise to explore the sparkling waters and over 144 picturesque islands scattered across the bay. Sail close to the dramatic cliffs of Cape Brett and pass through the famous Hole in the Rock, a true highlight of the region. Keep an eye out for dolphins, whales, and other marine wildlife as you cruise. Enjoy a generous island stop where you can swim, relax, take a coastal walk, or enjoy a meal, creating a memorable day filled with nature, adventure, and seaside charm.

Guided return transport from Auckland

Hotel pick up and drop off Auckland CBD

Hole in the Rock dolphin cruise experience

Local English speaking guide and live commentary

Island stop at Urupukapuka Island

Free time to explore relax or swim

Meals and drinks

Gratuities

Comfortable walking shoes

Weather appropriate clothing

Sun protection

Swimwear & towel if swimming

Camera

Travelers with Limited mobility impairments
Travelers prone to seasickness
Travelers with aquaphobia
Groups of friends
Families with children
Seniors and mature travelers
Physically fit travelers
Photography lovers

Minimum passenger numbers apply

Wildlife sightings depend on natural conditions

Cruise route may change due to weather

Confirmation will be received at time of booking

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Activity Provider: ExperienceKart Limited

Customer Reviews

5 reviews
5.0
based on 5 reviews
L

Lachlan

May 10, 2025
Google

Awesome Discover the Bay trip - a great cruise out to the Hole in the Rock and back through the islands, then a wonderful buffet lunch and exploring on Urupukapuka - great cruise and awesome experience!

D

David

March 02, 2025
Google

My wife and I went on the Ocean Adventure fast boat to the hole today. It was excellent! We sat right at the front and got an exhilarating ride. Skipper Marty was first class with his humour, story-telling and skill. Recommended.

P

Peter

January 27, 2025
Google

Out today with skipper Gaven & crew, departing Paihia, quick stop Russell, & out for 4.5hours. Cruised by a few islands with a great commentary, before coming across a pod of common-dolphins which was an entertaining 20mins or so. Then onto the Hole in the Rock for a pass through, saw a couple of massive bait fish balls, before heading to Otehei Bay for 90 mins incl a lovely buffet lunch at the licensed restaurant (beer was so cold). Boat had 2 decks - top open, downstairs enclosed. Shop open on board for food & drinks. Fantastic day Gaven & crew.

R

Rob

November 28, 2024
Google

We booked the discover The Bay tour and this is absolutely worth the money! Don’t hesitate to book this tour you’ll not regret it. We had captain Kevin and crew and it was a real pleasure. Very informative information about the Bay of Islands. We had the luck to spot two different dolphin groups and they took enough time for everyone to take fotos and videos. We were able to go through the hole in the rock (weather and tide dependent) and the stop on Otehei Bay is a very nice break. You can walk around, take a dive, have a beer and enjoy the surroundings. Really enjoyed this. Go for it!

W

William

January 01, 2023
Google

Booked the Discover the Bay cruise, which includes the Hole in the Rock. The whole tour lasted around 4.5 hours, which included about an hour stop on Otehei Bay for lunch, drinks or even a swim. The boat was comfortable and modern. The crew were lovely and entertaining. A great experience for the whole family