North Island
Bay of Islands Cruises & Sailing Tours – Departing Paihia & Russell
Explore the Bay of Islands by Cruise or Sail
Why Take a Bay of Islands Cruise or Sailing Tour?
Discover the natural beauty and marine wonders of the Bay of Islands with a scenic cruise or sailing tour departing from Paihia or Russell. Whether you’re cruising to the iconic Hole in the Rock, relaxing on the shores of Otehei Bay, or setting sail on a small-group yacht, this is the best way to explore the 144 subtropical islands that make the region famous. With options for island stopovers, wildlife encounters, and fast-boat adventures, there’s a perfect tour for every kind of traveller.
Cruise Tours from Paihia & Russell
Explore the Bay of Islands aboard purpose-built catamarans and scenic ferries that bring you up close to nature, history, and New Zealand’s iconic Hole in the Rock.
Fullers GreatSights – Hole in the Rock & Dolphin Cruise
Cruise through island-dotted waters with experienced guides. This 4.5-hour tour offers the chance to spot dolphins, explore Otehei Bay, and sail through the Hole in the Rock (weather permitting).
Explore NZ – Discover the Bay Cruise
A premium 4-hour experience with dolphin viewing, an island stop at Otehei Bay, and panoramic views of Cape Brett Lighthouse and Motukōkako Island.
Otehei Bay Island Escape – Urupukapuka Island
Take a return ferry or cruise to Otehei Bay, a peaceful slice of paradise on Urupukapuka Island. Enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply relax in a beanbag with a drink from the licensed beach café. Walking tracks lead to panoramic lookouts and birdlife is abundant thanks to local conservation efforts.
Learn more about Otehei Bay →
Island Getaway – Small-Group Cruise
Departing from Paihia, this 4.5-hour small-group experience offers a more intimate cruise, visiting lesser-known island beaches with the chance to relax or swim in secluded bays.
The Cream Trip – Full-Day Mail Cruise (Fullers)
A historic 7-hour cruise following the original island mail route. Visit multiple remote bays, spot wildlife, and enjoy commentary about life in the Bay of Islands.
Ocean Adventure – Fast Boat to Hole in the Rock (Explore NZ)
The fastest way to reach the Hole in the Rock. This 1.5-hour thrill ride departs from Paihia only and delivers excitement, views, and high-speed manoeuvres.
The Rock – Overnight Adventure Cruise
Climb aboard New Zealand’s only floating adventure lodge. The Rock offers a unique overnight experience in the Bay of Islands, complete with kayaking, fishing, snorkelling, paddleboarding, island walks, and a campfire on the beach (weather permitting). Includes dinner, breakfast, and bunk-style accommodation — perfect for families, couples, and small groups.
Sailing Tours in the Bay of Islands
Experience the Bay of Islands under sail with relaxed day trips, small-group charters, or tall-ship adventures.
Departures from Paihia Wharf
- Barefoot Sailing Adventures – Modern catamaran with snorkelling and lunch.
- Carino Wildlife Cruises – Wildlife-focused sailing with dolphin viewing and island stop.
- Vigilant Sailing Charters – Classic yacht with island stop and optional private charter.
- She’s a Lady – Boutique sailing with see-through kayaks and gourmet platters.
- Serenity – Luxury catamaran with deck beanbags and spacious indoor lounge.
Departures from Russell Wharf
-
Phantom Sailing Charters – Elegant sailing for small groups or private bookings.
-
R. Tucker Thompson – Tall ship day sail with island landing and BBQ lunch (seasonal).
Bay of Islands Cruise & Sailing FAQs
Where do Hole in the Rock cruises depart from?
From both Paihia and Russell. Fullers and Explore NZ offer departures from both towns. Island Getaway departs from Paihia only.
How long is the Hole in the Rock cruise?
-
Fullers GreatSights: ~4.5 hrs
-
Explore NZ: ~4 hrs
-
Island Getaway: ~4.5 hrs
-
The Cream Trip: ~7 hrs
-
Ocean Adventure: ~1.5 hrs (fast boat)
Do the boats go through the Hole in the Rock?
Yes, if sea conditions are safe. The passage through Motukōkako Island is a highlight, but it’s weather dependent.
What will I see on a Hole in the Rock cruise?
Expect 144 subtropical islands, Cape Brett Lighthouse, dolphins, birdlife, and the Hole in the Rock. Some tours also stop at Otehei Bay.
Can I stop at an island during the cruise?
Yes. Fullers and Explore NZ stop at Otehei Bay. Island Getaway visits other island beaches depending on the day and weather.
What is there to do at Otehei Bay?
Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, scenic walks, and a viewpoint with 360-degree panoramic views. Birdwatching is excellent, with 36+ species including Tui, saddlebacks, parakeets, and robins. Or just relax in a beanbag with a beer or wine from the café.
Is the Hole in the Rock cruise family-friendly?
Yes. All operators welcome families with safe vessels, informative commentary, and great sightseeing.
Where do sailing tours depart from?
Most tours depart from Paihia Wharf, with Phantom and R. Tucker Thompson departing from Russell Wharf.
What’s included on a sailing tour?
Sailing tours usually include snorkelling, paddleboarding, swimming, and lunch. You’ll visit quiet bays or island beaches along the way.
Can you swim or snorkel during Bay of Islands cruises or sailing tours?
Yes — on tours with island stopovers. Sailing tours almost always include time to swim or snorkel, while cruises like Fullers and Explore offer swimming at Otehei Bay. The fast boat (Ocean Adventure) does not stop for swimming.
Is there an overnight cruise option in the Bay of Islands?
Yes — The Rock Overnight Cruise offers a fully hosted overnight experience. It departs from Paihia and includes dinner, breakfast, and a range of activities like kayaking, snorkelling, island walks, and a beach campfire. Accommodation is in private or shared cabins onboard a purpose-built houseboat.
Ready to Explore the Bay of Islands?
Whether you’re cruising through the legendary Hole in the Rock, relaxing on a sailing yacht, or soaking up the sun at Otehei Bay, there’s no better way to experience the Bay of Islands than from the water. With tours departing daily from Paihia and Russell, it’s easy to find the perfect adventure for your travel style.
Book your Bay of Islands cruise or sailing tour today and discover why this region is one of New Zealand’s most treasured destinations.
Return to Paihia, Bay of islands page
