Discover the Bay of Islands ‘Hole in the Rock’ Cruise
Discover the Bay of Islands with Explore 'Hole in the Rock' Cruise
Discover the Bay Cruise
Discover the spectacular scenery, captivating wildlife and rich history of this New Zealand paradise on our quintessential half-day Bay of Islands cruise.
Experience the spectacular scenery of this New Zealand paradise and learn about the area’s rich culture and history with full commentary from our local skipper. When conditions permit, get close to the dramatic cliffs at Cape Brett and travel through the iconic Hole in the Rock.
Encounter diverse wildlife in their natural surroundings. We view dolphins on over 90% of our trips, along with birdlife, whales and seals, and our knowledgeable Nature Guide on board will be available to answer all your questions.
Your trip will also include a stop at Otehei Bay on the Department of Conservation’s Urupukapuka Island. You will have time to explore the island, swim at the sandy bay or enjoy a drink or bite to eat in the sun from our fully licensed cafe.
Bay of Islands Cruise - Hole in the Rock
Book online & get a discount (Save 10%) Includes Barbecue Lunch
Price: Adult $180 per person – Child $90-00 (Age 5 to 15 yrs old) Under 5’s free
Departs Paihia: 8:30 am – 2:00 pm
Departs Russell 8:40 am – 02:10 pm
Duration: Choose time on Otehei Bay when booking
Our journey takes you through the stunning scenery of the many islands & coves to the iconic landmark, the ‘Hole in the Rock’.
This area abounds in schools of fish of Kahawai, Blue mow mow and Kingfish on the surface, a popular fishing place for our local fishing charter boats. Weather permitting, we cruise through Hole in the Rock and enter ‘Cathedral Cave’, a chance to take photographs.
We visit the Cape Brett lighthouse, which has operated since 1910. Today, it is automated, and the old lighthouse keeper’s house now provides accommodation for overnight trampers.
As we cruise back into the islands, we take a one-hour stop at Otehei Bay, Urupukapuka island, with time to walk to lookout points affording 360-degree panoramic views over the bay.
For the less adventurous, relax on the beach. In the summertime, you can chill out at the beachside Bar/Restaurant available for Explore customers before cruising back to Russell & Paihia. If passengers wish to stop off at Russell, ferries can return to Paihia later.
Our boats are designed for comfort, with plenty of seating indoors and outdoors and plenty of space for up-close viewing of dolphins, whales and other marine life. Onboard we are fully licensed, with a range of drinks and snacks available for purchase during your cruise.
Bay of Islands Hole in the Rock Cruise Includes:
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3.5 hours scenic cruising
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Nature Guide on board to answer your questions and provide commentary
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When conditions permit, get up close to Cape Brett and travel through the Hole in the Rock
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We view dolphins on over 90% of our trips along with birdlife, whales and seals.
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stop or spend time at Otehei Bay, Urupukapuka Island
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Need to know:
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Check in to your cruise 15 minutes before departure
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Lunch is not included. Food and drinks are available to purchase at Otehei Bay Cafe? during the island stop at own expense
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Dress to the weather conditions and wear flat soled shoes
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Toilets available on board
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Book online & get a discount (Save 10%)
Price: Adult $180 per person – Child $90-00 (Age 5 to 15 yrs old) Under 5’s free
Departs Paihia: 8:30 am & 2:00 pm
Departs Russell 8:40 am & 2:10 pm
Duration: Choose time on Otehei Bay when booking
