Spend half a day cruising among 144 subtropical islands, sail through the famed Hole in the Rock when conditions allow, snorkel protected reefs and hike to 360-degree lookouts. This small-group Bay of Islands tour mixes scenic cruising, wildlife spotting and two remote island stopovers.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The boat slips away from Paihia Wharf and the shoreline peels back into a scatter of like-sized islands—some barely a ripple of rock, others cloaked in sub-tropical green. Salt spray threads the air and gulls argue overhead as the captain angles the bow toward Motu Kōkako, the rounded island the guide calls the Hole in the Rock. For 4.5 hours the Bay of Islands becomes a working map of light and shadow: turquoise shallows that dare you to dive, forested ridges that promise a five-minute scramble and a 360-degree lookout, and the iconic slit of water punched clean through ancient volcanic stone where older seas have been at work for millennia.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
Light activity: you should be able to board small boats and complete short, uneven island walks with minimal elevation.
Wildlife
History
The Bay of Islands was a major Maori travel and fishing area and later a hub of early European contact; Cape Brett Lighthouse guided coastal shipping from the late 19th century.
Conservation
Many islands are part of marine reserves or bird sanctuaries—stay on marked tracks, avoid disturbing nesting birds and use reef-safe sunscreen to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour - with two island stopovers today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive early to check in
Check in at Pier 10 on Paihia Wharf at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure boarding and seating arrangements.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Apply biodegradable sunscreen before swimming to protect coral and marine life—reapply after towel-drying.
Wear grippy shoes for island walks
Trails are short but uneven; closed-toe sandals or trail shoes make lookout walks safer and more comfortable.
Prepare for sea conditions
Mornings are typically calmer; take seasickness medication beforehand if you're prone to motion sickness.
Swimsuit & quick-dry towel
For snorkeling and a post-swim dry-off on the boat or beach.
summer
Light waterproof jacket
Sea spray and sudden showers are common—layering keeps you comfortable during cruising.
spring
Closed-toe water shoes or trail shoes
Protect feet on rocky beaches and uneven island trails.
Reef-safe sunscreen & wide-brim hat
Protect skin from strong UV while keeping marine ecosystems safe.
summer