Urupukapuka Island Ferry – Paihia & Russell to Otehei Bay
Updated 9 th February 2026
Urupukapuka Island Ferry – Paihia & Russell to Otehei Bay
Take a scenic ferry from Paihia or Russell to Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, the largest island in the Bay of Islands. Return services operate daily, giving you the freedom to explore sheltered beaches, walking tracks, swimming spots and kayaking before relaxing at the beachfront café and choosing your return sailing time.
Urupukapuka Island is the largest island in the Bay of Islands and a popular day-trip destination, easily reached by ferry from Paihia or Russell.
Ferry Timetable & Departures to Otehei Bay
Urupukapuka Island Ferry – Prices & Travel Info
Price: Adult $70:00 Child: $40:00 Return. Family $180 (2 adults + 2 Child)
Departs: Paihia & Russell – various times daily
Returns: Flexible return sailings
Travel Time: Approx. 40 minutes each way
Why book the Urupukapuka Island ferry?
Direct access to Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island
• Scheduled daily departures from Paihia & Russell
• Flexible return times for half-day or full-day visits
• Easy access to café, beaches and walking tracks
About Urupukapuka Island & Otehei Bay
Urupukapuka Island is the largest island in the Bay of Islands and is easily reached by ferry from Paihia or Russell. Otehei Bay offers sheltered swimming, scenic walking tracks, kayaking and a beachfront café. Marked trails lead to panoramic lookout points across the Bay of Islands, making it ideal for a relaxed half-day or full-day island visit.
Looking for more adventure? Explore kayaking options around the island or view our Hole in the Rock cruise tours departing nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions – Otehei Bay Ferry & Urupukapuka Island
How do I get to Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island?
Daily ferries operate from Paihia and Russell, providing an easy and scenic 40-minute journey to Otehei Bay. Multiple departure and return times are available throughout the day.
What activities can I do at Otehei Bay?
Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, snorkeling, coastal walking tracks, wildlife viewing, and relaxing on the beach. Seasonal guided hikes may also be available.
Are food and drinks available on the island?
Yes. Otehei Bay has a licensed café and bar offering meals, snacks and cold drinks with beautiful beachfront views.
Can I bring my own food or drinks to the island?
Yes, you may bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks. These cannot be consumed inside the café or bar, but there is a designated picnic area near the wharf.
Can I bring my own kayak or paddleboard on the ferry?
No. Due to limited storage space on the ferry, personal kayaks or paddleboards cannot be transported. Rental options are available on Urupukapuka Island during peak season.
Are there guided tours or activities on the island?
Guided hikes are planned for the 2025 season. Additional scenic tours, including trips to the Hole in the Rock, may be available depending on operator schedules.
What facilities are available at Otehei Bay?
The island has restrooms, a licensed café and bar, picnic areas, sheltered beaches and access to several walking tracks.
What is the best time to visit Otehei Bay?
The island can be visited year-round, but summer offers the warmest weather for swimming, kayaking and other water activities.
How long should I plan to spend on Urupukapuka Island?
With multiple departures and returns daily, you can choose a short visit or stay for the entire day. Most visitors spend between 3 hours and a full day enjoying the island.
With multiple departures per day on the ferry to Otehei Bay from both Paihia and Russell
You have the choice to spend just a few hours or the whole day on this picturesque island.
Price: Adult $70:00 Child: $40:00 Return. Family $180 (2 adults + 2 Child)
Departs: Paihia & Russell various times to suit
Returns: various times to suit
Travel Time: approx 40 minutes
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