Bay Explorer Island & Wildlife Cruise

Join the Bay Explorer on a premium wildlife and adventure experience cruising for the day on the biggest charter boat in Tauranga and exploring the beautiful islands around the harbour. Get amongst the unique aquatic world of seasonal marine wildlife – dolphins, whales, seals, sunfish, rays, school fish and birdlife making it a photographers dream. Enjoy many optional activities which include stand-up paddle boarding (SUP), kayaking, snorkelling reefs, swimming & hiking.

You will explore the aquatic world of seasonal marine wildlife; dolphins, seals, penguins, fish, and occasional whale encounters. The regular dolphin encounters can range from a few animals to hundreds. You can choose to explore even more at the islands. Optional activities include swimming, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boarding (SUP).

Your experienced Captain and BEST DAY EVER crew will provide a fascinating commentary on the history, geography and culture of the area. They have knowledge on marine wildlife and personally share with you everything they observe. Books and references are on board to enhance your experience.

Don’t miss this premier Bay of Plenty island and wildlife adventure

Departure is from the Strand Tauranga City at 8:00am, returning 2:00pm – 4:00pm.

Your Adventure Includes:

A full day cruise on our spacious boat with 360° outdoor views from the largest open-air wildlife watching sun deck.
Watch seasonal marine wildlife – penguins, seals, dolphins, whales, sunfish, school fish, seabirds, sharks and orca.
Enjoy an Island stopover and kayak, stand-up paddle board or swim. Water sport training and lifejackets for all ages.
Free communal onboard BBQ facilities for lunch (BYO food for cooking on the BBQ or bring your own packed lunch).
Cold beer and chilled regional wine from our licenced bar (Eftpos available).
Onboard commentary and references with facts on the Bay and local marine wildlife.
Our friendly, professional BEST DAY EVER Crew.

Custom Charter Cruises

Our 18.3m Bay Explorer is the perfect venue for your function or corporate event. Featuring..

Licenced Bar with cold beer, chilled regional wine and non-alcoholic beverages ready to serve.
Large interior saloon and large spacious viewing deck
Catering available and an onboard BBQ facility

The Bay Explorer is the largest charter boat for hospitality boat cruises in Tauranga. We operate within the Tauranga harbour (Te Awanui) and can host up to 140 passengers.

Perfect for meetings, team building, corporate hospitality cruises and conference break-outs.

TUHUA (MAYOR) ISLAND

This is the jewel in Tauranga’s crown. The island has established walks, trails, amazing history and geography, lakes, fresh water and is totally NZ green, pest-free. The Marine reserve is situated at the north of the island, and remote from the base camp at South East Bay.

Staying on the island is possible during summer between Labour Weekend and Easter (accommodation needs to be booked separately and must be booked in advance).