Water activity

Paihia/Russell: Hole in the Rock and Bay of Islands Cruise

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Water activity
Paihia/Russell: Hole in the Rock and Bay of Islands Cruise
4.6
713 reviews

Take in the views of the Bay of Islands on a cruise to The Hole in the Rock from Paihia or Russell. Spot dolphins, whales, and other marine wildlife, and enjoy a 1.5-hour island stop to swim and walk.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 4.5 hours
Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide
English
Optional audio guide
Chinese, French, German

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

M
Mary-Anne – Australia

Our captain and crew were very welcoming and personable. The boat was clean and comfortable. All instructions were clear and well presented. Commentary and history was well received. Just the right length of time to get a feel for the Bay of Islands. Stop over on one of the islands allowed us to climb to the top of a hill for 360 degree views. Couldn't actually go through the Hole in the Rock, due to windy conditions, but the captain did his best to poke the nose of the boat in there. Would highly recommend this tour.

P
Paul – United Kingdom

seeing the Dolphins playing, going through the rock. The stop over on the Island was perfect time for a break and a swim. The hosts were not just knowlegable but funny and entertaining all at the same time. Fantastic day out and great value for money.

Highlights

  • Say kia ora to dolphins, whales, and other wildlife (Marine Mammal Permitted)
  • Learn about the area through engaging onboard commentary from the boat crew
  • Sail among the 144 Islands that make up the Bay of Islands
  • Cruise through the narrow Motukōkako (The Hole in the Rock)
  • Enjoy food and drink options for purchase at the cafe on board or at Otehei Bay

Full description

Embark on a catamaran tour of the Bay of Islands from Paihia or Russell. Enjoy guide commentary as you visit famous sights, including Piercy Island (The Hole in the Rock.) Look for Marine Mammals and enjoy a 1.5-hour stop at Urupukapuka Island to swim, explore, or sunbathe.
Hop on board and take in sweeping views of the Bay of Islands as you cruise along the Rakaumangamanga Peninsula to Cape Brett, where a historic lighthouse watches over the famous Piercy Island or so-called Hole in the Rock (also known in Māori as Motukōkako).
Conditions permitting, travel through the Hole in the Rock and keep an eye out for dolphins, whales, and other marine wildlife. Make a 1.5-hour island stopover at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island to enjoy free time for a swim or walk around.

On board, benefit from indoor and outdoor seating and large outdoor viewing decks. Sip on hot and cold refreshments available to purchase at the licensed small cafe on board or enjoy food and drinks at the fully licensed Otehei Bay Cafe and Bar during your island stopover.

Includes

  • Tour guide and knowledgeable crew
  • Cruise on purpose built vessel
  • Urupukapuka Island stop
  • Visit Motukōkako (The Hole in the Rock)
  • Food and drinks (available for purchase onboard)

Select participants and date

Meeting point

Meeting point may vary depending on the option booked.

Important information

What to bring

  • Sunglasses
  • Sun hat
  • Waterproof camera
  • Biodegradable sunscreen
  • Jacket

Know before you go

  • Snacks and a licensed bar are available onboard or enjoy our menu at the stunningly located Otehei Bar Café and Bar on Urupukapuka Island
  • This tour operator is licensed by the Department of Conservation to view marine mammals, including Bottlenose Dolphins
  • The trip through the Hole in the Rock may be not be possible due to weather conditions

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.6 /5

based on 713 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.7/5
  • Transportation
    4.7/5
  • Value for money
    4.3/5

Customer photos

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M
Mary-Anne – AustraliaMarch 19, 2025 – Verified booking
Our captain and crew were very welcoming and personable. The boat was clean and comfortable. All instructions were clear and well presented. Commentary and history was well received. Just the right length of time to get a feel for the Bay of Islands. Stop over on one of the islands allowed us to climb to the top of a hill for 360 degree views. Couldn't actually go through the Hole in the Rock, due to windy conditions, but the captain did his best to poke the nose of the boat in there. Would highly recommend this tour.
P
Paul – United KingdomMarch 5, 2025 – Verified booking
seeing the Dolphins playing, going through the rock. The stop over on the Island was perfect time for a break and a swim. The hosts were not just knowlegable but funny and entertaining all at the same time. Fantastic day out and great value for money.
M
Maree – AustraliaMarch 1, 2025 – Verified booking
Wonderful day on the water in the Bay of Islands. So blue. The rock was amazing and our stop on the island was great. Recommend

Product ID: 21028

Activity provider:Explore Group New Zealand

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