Cruises
Family-friendly Tours
Half-Day Tours
What will you see and do, and where does the cruise go?
Cruise through the Bay of Islands and along the Cape Brett Peninsula towards Motukōkako, the island known as the Hole in the Rock. You will pass the Cape Brett lighthouse and hear commentary about the coastline from the crew. If sea conditions permit, the skipper may take the vessel through the rock arch.
Keep watch for dolphins, whales, seals and seabirds during the journey. These are wild animals, so sightings cannot be promised. The vessel has outdoor viewing decks and an air-conditioned cabin, giving you a choice of places to enjoy the trip. For more options, browse Bay of Islands cruises from Paihia.
Where do you depart, and what are the departure and return times?
The Paihia sailing departs from Paihia Wharf. Check in at least 15 minutes before departure; the operator’s Paihia booking office is in the Maritime Building at 69 Marsden Road, beside the waterfront. The cruise runs daily year-round, but the departure time changes by season as shown in the table.
You can also board the operator’s corresponding sailing at Russell, approximately 10 minutes after its Paihia departure. If you plan to start in one town and finish in the other, confirm that arrangement when booking a Bay of Islands cruise from Russell rather than assuming a separate passenger ferry is included.
Hole in the Rock cruise times and inclusions
| When you travel | Paihia departure | Approximate Paihia return | Time aboard and ashore |
|---|---|---|---|
| June–August | 10.00am | 2.30pm | About 3 hours cruising; 1½ hours at Otehei Bay |
| Most September–May dates, morning | 8.30am | 1.00pm | About 3 hours cruising; 1½ hours at Otehei Bay |
| Most September–May dates, afternoon | 2.00pm | 6.30pm | About 3 hours cruising; 1½ hours at Otehei Bay |
| Selected May and September dates | 10.00am only | 2.30pm | About 3 hours cruising; 1½ hours at Otehei Bay |
| Included in the fare | Available at extra cost |
|---|---|
| Cruise towards the Hole in the Rock, crew commentary and approximately 1½ hours at Otehei Bay | Onboard drinks and snacks; Otehei Bay café meals and drinks; seasonal kayak, snorkel and paddleboard hire |
Total duration is approximately 4½ hours. Return times are estimates based on that duration. Check the sailing offered on your chosen date, particularly in May and September.
Where does the cruise stop, and what can you do there?
The scheduled island stop is Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, where you have approximately 1½ hours. Swim at the beach, follow a walking track or relax by the water. During peak season, kayak, snorkel and paddleboard equipment may be available to hire.
You can use the stop in several ways:
- Walk to a viewpoint over the surrounding islands.
- Swim or spend time on the beach.
- Buy food or a drink at the café and bar.
- Hire equipment during peak season, subject to availability.
Allow time to return to the wharf before your cruise continues to Paihia.
Are meals included, and is the cruise suitable for families?
Meals are not included. Drinks and snacks can be purchased aboard, while the beachfront café and bar at Otehei Bay sell meals and refreshments. Food, drinks and seasonal equipment hire on the island are additional expenses. If an island lunch is important, compare the Discover the Bay Hole in the Rock Cruise with Island Lunch.
Families can join the cruise. Children aged 5–15 qualify for child fares, and children under five travel free but must be included in the booking. The island stop gives families time off the vessel to walk, swim or relax.
What happens if the weather changes?
The skipper decides whether conditions allow passage through the Hole in the Rock. If the sea is unsuitable, the cruise may still visit the Cape Brett area without going through the arch. The operator may change the route or cancel a departure when sea or weather conditions affect safety or comfort. Wildlife sightings also depend on the animals’ movements.
Bring a warm layer for the open deck, along with sun protection. If you hope to swim during the island stop, pack swimwear and a towel.
- Adults: 16 years and older.
- Children: 5 - 15 years.
- Infants (Free): 0-4 years
- More than 24 hours before departure: Full refund**
- Within 24 hours: No refund
**Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.
