West Coast Sightseeing Cruise with Hooked on Barrier
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, no strenuous activity required; walking optional at Glenfern Sanctuary is gentle but may challenge some
Overview
Cruise the stunning coastal waters of Great Barrier Island on Hooked on Barrier’s five-hour West Coast Tour. Enjoy onboard refreshments, unique wildlife at Glenfern Sanctuary, and pristine sights from the comfort of the Sundancer.
West Coast Tour (Sightseeing only, onboard lunch included!)
All ages • 5 hours • Enjoy the comfort of the Sundancer • Toilet onboard
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating five-hour boat tour from Whangaparapara, featuring morning tea and lunch onboard. Experience stunning sights of Whangaparapara Harbour, the Broken Islands, and Fitzroy Harbour. Optional guided tours at Glenfern Sanctuary showcase Aotea’s endangered species amidst pristine native bush, making this adventure truly unforgettable.
Five hour boat tour departing from and returning to Whangaparapara with morning tea and lunch on board.
Subject to the weather it incorporates sightseeing in the Whangaparapara Harbour covering the history there, up to the Broken Islands and Fitzroy Harbour via Man O War passage and Kaikoura Island, incorporates a guided tour of Glenfern Sanctuary (optional extra) then lunch in a sheltered bay before returning to Whangaparapara.
Glenfern Sanctuary
Include a guided tour of Glenfern Sanctuary (optional extra per person. Minimum 4 people) Hear the birdsong and experience some of Aotea’s most endangered species on our 2km loop track through pristine native bush.
Duration
5 Hours
About
- Lunch on board – please advise special dietary requirements on booking. (We endeavour to meet your needs but if you are at risk of serious allergic reaction to some foods you should consider bringing your own)
- Bring your swimming togs, use our stand up paddle board or just have a swim
- Minimum 4 adults, Maximum 12 persons
- Subject to suitable weather conditions
More info
Sundancer is an 11.2 metre ex-fishing boat, modified for charters. It comfortably fits groups of up to 12 people fishing on the deck, or 20 people sightseeing. For your convenience, there is an on-board toilet, Tea and coffee facilities, with seating for 8 people inside the cabin plus seating on the aft deck.
The fiberglass, Marlborough 38 design boat has a service speed of 8 knots, and is built to Maritime NZ standards to safely handle heavy weather.
Sundancer is set up and licenced for day charters only (no sleeping facilities on board) and is only available with the skipper (no bareboat charters).
All charters depart from Whangaparapara wharf, unless otherwise arranged
Adventure Tips
Weather can change quickly
Bring layered clothing and waterproof gear as coastal weather can shift rapidly.
Bring swimwear and towel
The tour offers optional swimming and paddleboarding opportunities—come prepared to dive in.
Notify dietary restrictions in advance
Meals onboard can accommodate dietary needs if informed prior to booking.
Minimum group size required
Tours require at least 4 adults to operate; plan accordingly to avoid disappointment.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Takahē – a rare flightless bird occasionally seen in Glenfern Sanctuary
- Blue penguins seen near coastal cliffs at dawn or dusk
History
Great Barrier Island has a rich Māori heritage, and the Whangaparapara Harbour was once a key landing site for early settlers and whalers.
Conservation
Glenfern Sanctuary operates predator-proof fencing and restoration programs to protect native species and maintain ecological balance on Aotea.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Auckland
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof jacket
Protects from changing coastal weather and spray during the boat tour.
all specific
Comfortable walking shoes
Required for optional Glenfern Sanctuary walks over uneven native bush paths.
all specific
Sunscreen
Essential to prevent sunburn during exposed time on deck and ashore.
summer specific
Swimsuit
Allows you to take advantage of swimming and paddleboarding opportunities.
summer specific