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Hole in the Rock Cruise Bay of Islands 

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Take a half-day cruise in the Bay of Islands in search of dolphins and other marine life.

This is the Bay of Islands’ most popular dolphin viewing trip, and with good reason! Board your cruise at Paihia or Russell and take in the breathtaking vistas as we glide out through the islands and down the Rakaumangamanga Peninsula to Cape Brett, where a historic lighthouse guards Piercy Island/Motukakako, or as it is more often known, the ‘Hole in the Rock.’

Hole In the Rock & Wildlife Cruise Bay of Islands.

Book online & get a discount  (Save 10%)

Please note: We can Interact with marine mammals on both am and pm cruises but only with Bottlenose Dolphins on the PM  Cruise as per Department of Conservation guidelines

Morning Cruise:

Price: Adult $150.00 pp – Child: $75.00 pp (Less 10% discount)
Departs: Paihia 08:30 am – Russell 10:10

Duration: 4 Hours

Afternoon Cruise from October

Price: Adult $150.00 pp – Child: $75.00 pp (Less 10% discount)
Departs: Paihia 2:00 pm – Russell 2:10  
Duration:  4.5 Hours

The Bay of Islands’ most popular cruise, along with dolphin watching. Board your trip at Paihia or Russell and enjoy the breathtaking vistas as we glide through the islands and along the Rakaumangamanga Peninsula to Cape Brett, where a historic lighthouse guards Piercy Island/Motukkako, or, as it is more well known, the ‘Hole in the Rock.’

Water drops from the cave roof above were a sign of good fortune. Local warriors used to paddle through the Hole in the Rock in their canoes before heading for battle, according to Mori mythology. If the weather permits, your captain will carefully navigate the ship into the tiny gap and consider yourself fortunate if you get dripped on.

Throughout your trip, keep an eye out for dolphins, whales, and other marine species, and have your camera handy as we bring you up close to the action. The Department of Conservation has approved our purpose-built catamaran for dolphin viewing, and our crew has years of expertise in identifying dolphins in these waters. Please remember that we are only authorised to engage with common dolphins on our morning trip.

On our morning cruise, you may choose a complimentary island extension – stay longer, explore the island’s walking trails and stunning beaches, and rejoin us in the afternoon. An island stopover at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island is included in the Hole in the Rock Cruise.

Take a stroll along the white sand beach or climb the hill for panoramic views of the entire Bay of Islands.
Our boat features inside and outdoor seats and expansive outdoor viewing decks. On board, you may purchase hot and cold beverages or dine in the fully licenced Otehei Bay Cafe and Bar.

Useful Info

  • DEPARTS FROM:  Paihia Wharf or Russell Wharf
  • BRING:  Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and your camera.
  • HEAR:  A full commentary is provided by your skipper. 
  • EAT:  You can buy hot and cold refreshments on board, or pre-order a picnic lunch for $16pp (afternoon cruise only, pre-orders must be received by 6pm the day before your cruise).
  • GOOD TO KNOW:  Interacting with dolphins and marine mammals is subject to DOC regulations.

Hole in the Rock is the Bay of Islands most popular boat cruise

We recommend to Book in advance

Morning Cruise:

Price: Adult $150.00 pp – Child: $75.00 pp (Less 10% discount)
Departs: Paihia 08:30 am – Russell 10:10

Duration: 4 Hours

 Afternoon Cruise from October

Price:Adult $150.00 pp – Child: $75.00 pp (Less 10% discount)
Departs: Paihia 2:00 pm – Russell 2:10  
Duration:  4.5 Hours

Combine your Hole in the Rock Trip and add

A Day Trip to Cape Reinga

Great  value Tour combo Deal- Double Dip Normally $370 per person Both Trips for $295 pp – Child $147:50 pp

Hole in the Rock + Cape Reinga + Russell Passenger Ferry Explore the Bay by land and sea over two days, with a  cruise and a trip to New Zealand’s northernmost point, Cape Reinga. Choose either a half-day Hole in the Rock cruise and explore the Bay visiting its highlights 

More information about Cape Reinga tour from the Bay of Islands HERE:

 

         Return to the Things to do in the Bay of Islands

 

Stay longer in the Bay of Islands

Combine your Experience  with  Great Accommodation 

 

 

 

 

 

        Spacious Three Bedroom Apartment         Views over the bay                Two Bedroom Cottage


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