Explore Group | Bay of Islands | Hole in the Rock cruise Explore Group | Bay of Islands | Hole in the Rock cruise

Discover The Bay

  • Duration
    4.5 hours
  • Category
    Cruising
  • Location
    Bay of Islands
  • Operating Season
    Daily
  • Price
    From $190
    Adult
    From $95
    Child

Discover The Bay

Experience the very best of what the Bay of Islands has to offer. Discover the spectacular scenery, captivating wildlife, the iconic Motukōkako - The Hole in the Rock - and Otehei Bay on our premium cruise.

Discover 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 up close to the dramatic cliffs at Cape Brett and travel through the iconic Hole in the Rock on Motukōkako.

Encounter diverse wildlife in their natural surroundings and keep an eye out for dolphins, whales, birdlife and seals during your cruise. Explore is one of only two operators licensed to view marine mammals in the Bay of Islands.

Your trip includes a stop at Otehei Bay on the Department of Conservation’s Urupukapuka Island and a delicious Island Buffet Lunch^ at the Otehei Bay Café & Bar. You will also have time to explore the island, enjoy a swim at the sandy bay or hire a kayak (during peak season).

 

Highlights:

  • Scenic cruise on board our purpose-built vessel with large viewing decks and air-conditioned cabin
  • Visit the Cape Brett Peninsula and travel through the iconic Hole in the Rock on Motukōkako, when conditions permit
  • Opportunity to view marine mammals including dolphins, whales, seals, birdlife and more (conditions permitting)
  • 1.5 hour stop at Otehei Bay including a delicious Island Lunch at the Otehei Bay Cafe & Bar
  • Time to explore Urupukapuka Island, take a swim, snorkel, or hire a kayak (kayaks available in peak season)
  • Drinks and snacks available to purcase on board
  • Option to extend your stay at Otehei Bay and return on a later Explore ferry at no extra cost (morning cruise only - please contact our reservations team to book your return ferry)

^The Island Buffet Lunch is subject to minimum numbers. A lunch voucher for a main meal at Otehei Bay Café will be provided if the buffet is not available.

Discover the Bay Cruise including Island Lunch
Price
$190 Adult
Adult price is 16 years+
$95 Child
Child 5 -15 years | Under 5 years travel free

Why Choose Explore

  • Choose a Permitted Operator

    One of only two operators in the Bay of Islands licensed to interact with Marine Mammals

  • Premium Vessel Fleet

    Travel in comfort on our modern purpose built vessels.

  • Established Kiwi Operator

    Locally owned company delivering unique experiences in the Bay of Islands for over 20 years