Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour - with two island stopovers
Overview
Available languages
4 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Escape the crowds and discover the Bay of Islands on our 4.5 hour personalised and interactive Island Cruise & Tour.
Locally owned and operated, with a passion for sharing our beautiful area.
Suitable for all ages, families, solo travellers and couples...experience it all!
• Scenic cruise among 144 sub-tropical Islands
• Two remote island stopovers
• Native bush walks and 360 degree views from the island lookout points
• Visit the famous Hole in the Rock and Cape Brett Lighthouse
• Snorkel untouched island reefs
• Lookout for unique wildlife throughout the day
• Interactive commentary and information
• Scenic cruising among 144 subtropical islandsThere's no better way to spend the day....join us on our Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour
Additional Info
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. Check-in at PIER 10
Suitable for families, couples and solo travellers
Suitable for all ages
Please bring a swimsuit & towel, and appropriate clothing for the day
Please bring lunch& drink for the day
Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
No-show will forfeit 100% of the ticket cost
Cruise-ship guests need to insure 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.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Island Getaway Tours
Check in 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 2 island stopovers (the enchanting Roberton Island) and a second location determined on the day. 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
Swim, Snorkel and relax (Mask, Snorkel and fins provided)
Cape Brett Lighthouse
Scenic Cruise among 144 Islands
Smaller group tours
Two remote island stopovers
The Famous Hole in the Rock
Wildlife spotting, commentary and information throughout the day
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Lunch
Options
Russell Wharf Departure
Starting point:
Russell Wharf, Russell, Bay of Islands, 27 The Strand, Russell 0202, New Zealand
Paihia Wharf Departure
Starting point:
Paihia Wharf, Paihia 0200, New Zealand
Reviews
691 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A must do and good small local company.
Hilary D,,Jan 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We loved the trip it wasn’t too packed and the crew were very friendly and helpful. We were lucky to see a baby whale and a fur seal. The weather was good so we were able to go through the hole on the rock.
Great tour
Yasmin I,,Jan 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Blair and Dan were a great crew, both very knowledgeable, we learned a lot about the local area and Māori history. We only had 1 hour at Otehei Bay which felt quite rushed, would have been nice to start the tour earlier and have an extra 30 mins, but everything else felt well spaced. The islands and the bay were all stunning. Overall would recommend.
Excellent Getaway trip
Shirley C,,Jan 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Excellent trip and all the crew were fantastic. Lots of local information , and really comfortable boat. Says no lunch on Viator, but the team contacted us the day before to offer a lunch option. We would highly recommend this tour. Thanks to captain Hamish and the team.
Interesting experience....
Kim G,,Jan 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Interesting experience. Tour guide was friendly and informative. Boat ride was good, it was quite dark and there were lots of glow worms to see
Great tour with Blair and Dan!!
jeanjY7490JF,,Jan 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great tour with Dan and Blair. From the super commentary of the islands and wildlife to the dad jokes. We did all the stops, went through the rock and they even ordered sunshine for us!! Would highly recommend doing a tour with them. A part of your fee is used as a contribution towards the conservation of wildlife, bonus!! Cheers guys, keep up the good work 🤙🏼
Amazing day out
Arabella M,,Jan 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The best way to see the beautiful bay of islands! The crew were wonderful, very knowledgeable and helpful.
Very worthwhile experience
aussie1Sydney,,Jan 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Enjoyed the friendliness of the crew who could not do enough to make it a terrific experience. The boat is comfortable but be aware you can get very wet from the sea spray as the boat is heading out to the hole in the rock. The stop at Otehei Bay was just long enough to enjoy the cafe and eat your lunch. Some people took the opportunity to swim or snorkel off the beach. We paid for the boat ‘lunch’ which was fine ( sandwich, apple, drink, muffin and brownie) but the food at the cafe also looked nice and was reasonably priced. Keep in mind you CAN NOT eat the lunch provided at the cafe unless you buy something from them. The commentary provided by Hamish was informative and interesting. The first island visit and the walk up to the top was great. Also saw a shark and some dolphins. You can even choose to be dropped off at Russel on the way back to explore there before catching the ferry back at your own expense. A very worthwhile adventure.
Memorable afternoon
elizabethbY6531JG,,Jan 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A fantastic afternoon trip that was memorable for sailing through the hole in the rock with many thanks to our very own Cornish Man Dan, Elizabeth & Julian
Fabulous Trip - the Highlight of our Bay of Islands holiday!
janjC5139WJ,,Jan 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What a fantastic 4.5hr trip we had!! This cruise was truly the highlight of our holiday! Our captain/host made it so much fun with his wit and anecdotes along the way but he also shared a wealth of information about the areas we visited. Highly recommend this company (Island Getaway)! A++++
Perfect mix of everything
Katrin A,,Jan 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We really enjoyed the boat tour. The crew was really nice and they gave us a special and personal experience. It was totally worth it. It was a really good mix of time on the water and on the land. We also heard some interesting stories and the Hike to Cooks Lookout was pretty amazing. We can really recommend this boat tour with Island Getaway Tours. Very caring, personal and lovely crew. Thanks for this wonderful day.
From NZ$169.00
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Operated by Island Getaway Tours