3 Hours // Hole in the Rock Cruise & Bay of Islands Tour
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Discover the Bay of Islands, and take a scenic boat cruise through the 144 subtropical islands.
Visit the famous "Hole in the Rock" and Cape Brett Lighthouse.
Stopover on Roberton Island to take a short walk to the lookout point over the Twin Lagoons
Keep an eye out for our unique New Zealand sea birds and marine life, take a short walk along some of the island trails to breathtaking viewpoints while your crew provide commentary and information throughout the day.
• Scenic Cruising among 144 subtropical islands.
• Visit the Hole in the Rock and Cape Brett Lighthouse
• Remote island stopovers
• Native bush walks and 360 degree views from the island lookout points
• Lookout for unique wildlife throughout the day
• Interactive commentary and information
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
CRUISE SHIP PASSENGERS: If you are arriving in Waitangi Wharf, the cruiseship provides FREE shuttle buses for cruise ship guests to transfer you into Paihia (5 minute bus ride) The bus will drop you off outside the Paihia Wharf next to our check-in location - Pier 10 on the Paihia Wharf
Suitable for families, couples and solo travellers
Suitable for all ages
No-show will forfeit 100% of the ticket cost
Cruise-ship guests need to ensure their travel insurance covers them in the unlikely event that the cruise-ship does not stop in port, as we are unable to refund in these situations.
The "Hole in the Rock" section of the tour is weather dependent. If conditions are not suitable to travel to The Hole in the Rock, an alternative route within the sheltered inner islands will be used.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Check in is at PIER 10 on the Paihia wharf, please arrive 15 minutes before your departure time
Bay of Islands
This cruise and Island Tour promises an unforgettable experience, with highlights including an island stopover and visiting the famous "Hole in the Rock" plus scenic cruising through the 144 islands. Marvel at the breathtaking natural wonder known as the "Hole in the Rock" and the iconic Cape Brett Lighthouse. Immerse yourself in the beauty of this pristine marine playground as you explore secluded coves, witness rich marine life, and soak in the picturesque landscapes. A perfect blend of relaxation and exploration awaits on this Bay of Islands excursion.
What‘s Included
Smaller Group Tours (49 Guests Max)
Visit the famous "Hole in the Rock" and Cape Brett Lighthouse
Remote island stopover (Roberton Island)
Scenic Cruise among 144 Islands
Wildlife spotting, commentary and information throughout the day
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Lunch
Alcoholic Beverages
Options
Paihia Wharf Departure
Reviews
101 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Excellent company with great staff
Gilliana S,,Feb 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Blair, Dan and Audrey made this a great trip. We were so lucky to be surrounded by dolphins at one stage and they were bow surfing the boat. Even the crew were amazed by the number and how long they stayed with us. The weather was kind and we were able to go through the hole in the rock. We had been booked on a 1 pm tour, but as we arrived early I went to the office and they moved us to their 10am service. This was a longer cruise and they upgraded us at no cost. We were very appreciative . I highly recommend this company, for great service and superb staff. Thanks for making our visit so memorable.
Hold in the Rock on a lovely afternoon
kiwinora,,Feb 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Hamish and Bree were amazing... thoroughly enjoyed the whole time we were out and about. Definetely recommend this tour option.
Amazing scenery and great History commentary.
tjwheeler2018,,Feb 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Nick was an amazing captain. He made the cruise so interesting with his commentary and we all had a few laughs. His navigation of the boat was incredible. We were very fortunate to see a huge pod of dolphins. Would recommend this cruise to nearly anyone. We were in our late sixties and could manage it quite well.
Very educational
Hester S,,Feb 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00I loved hearing the old time stories from the region. The guide checked with us what time we had to get back to our ship, which I appreciated. Beautiful area and knowledgeable guide.
Unforgettable cruise on a hot sunny day!
Rukhsar c,,Feb 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00- highly recommend the instructor! very knowledgeable about the islands and history of Bay of Islands. Also had a good sense of humour and was easy to get along with - very responsive and kind! - took so many photos as it was truly a fantastic experience!
Great experience
stevennr4p,,Feb 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great 3 hour boat excursion. Adam as both guide and boat captain was knowledgeable and very personable. Made the experience very enjoyable.
Great! Bring a raincoat!...
SimonAntony B,,Feb 1, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great! Bring a raincoat! Very pleased tho got very wet as didn’t bring raincoat but was fun even tho. Nice stop off for a drink. Would recommend
Great Experience
slader91,,Feb 1, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience, it was an overcast day which was unfortunate but our captain Adam made up for the weather.
A great trip to the hole...
Lilly K,,Jan 30, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00A great trip to the hole in the rock. The overlook was stunning. The captain gave good comments about the area. His helper Audrey is especially sweet. She seemed to have remembered everyone’s name of all 42 passengers.
What a beautiful day in The Bay of Islands
Maps732893,,Jan 30, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We were lucky that the weather was on our side, sea was pretty calm and sunshine all the way. The trip was the three hour version which was absolutely fine we saw plenty of The Bay of Islands and the skipper and his excellent team were well qualified to give a clear explanation to the geography and history of the area and islands. All in all a great morning had by all.
From NZ$145.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
Related Experiences
Operated by Island Getaway Tours