3 Day Bay of Islands Sea Kayaking Itinerary
Note: Weather conditions on the day may mean adjustments to the itinerary.
Evening Prior to Departure:
Where possible we like for our passengers to meet at our Beach base at 5.00pm to pack kayaks ready for an early morning departure. A brief on the tour will be given and it is also a great opportunity to meet and greet your fellow paddlers and guides.
Day One: Paihia to Roberton & Urupukapuka Island
7.30am meet at Beach base and make any final packing requirements. On the water and paddling by 8.00am. From Paihia we have an easy 45 minute paddle to Tapeka point, gateway to the Bay of Islands. We explore the Russell coast and local sea caves before making a further 45 minute paddle across to the beautiful Roberton Island. Here we will stop for lunch and take the time to explore the island, snorkel and swim. The island has significant Maori history and offers a range of recreational activities including a walking track to a historical Pa site, an underwater trail for snorkelers and two stunning lagoons to explore. Roberton Island also boasts a sensational 360 degree view of the Bay.
From here we have an hour's paddle to our home for the next 2 days, the gorgeous Urupukapuka Island. After setting up camp we can relax, marvel at our surroundings and enjoy a sumptuous dinner of venison, fish or rack of lamb accompanied by freshly prepared salads and potatoes.
Day Two: Urupukapuka Island to Hole in the Rock or Deep Water Cove
Today we experience the natural wonders and the stunning scenery of this unique marine environment as we head towards either the iconic Hole in the Rock or Deep Water Cove where we stop for lunch. (Our destination will depend on weather and tidal conditions).
We paddle back via Waiwaitoria passage and Okaihau Island to our base at Urupukapuka where we spend another memorable night under the stars.
Day Three: Urupukapuka Island to Moturua Island and Paihia
After a great breakfast and good coffee we pack up camp and make the short paddle to Moturua Island. Here we leave our kayaks behind and go ashore to explore the beautiful bays and beaches. We then make an easy 4km walk as part of the loop track. One of the most highly rated DOC tracks in New Zealand.
See where Captain Cook and Marion Du Fresne spent time, and visit the WW2 observation post. As part of Project Birdsong keep an eye out for the North Island Robin, Fantails, Tui, North Island brown Kiwi, Oystercatcher, Silvereye, and New Zealand Dotteral. This beautiful scenic reserve is dominated by Manuka and Kanuka vegetation which creates an ideal growing environment for young tree ferns and shrubs. You can also see young Pohutukawa trees flourishing along the coastline.
At the end of our walk we meet with our sailing crew on the beach and enjoy a lunch of sumptuous food and chilled drinks. We are then taken out to board the classic 42' yacht Vigilant and spend the remainder of the afternoon sailing the sparkling waters of one the most popular boating destinations in the world. Take an active part in the sailing of the vessel or just sit back and relax. Dolphins are resident in the Bay of Islands and may cross our path at any time. We return to the wharf at approximately 5.00pm.
