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North Island

Start: Paihia
Locations: Paihia, Bay of Islands
Duration: 1 day
Travel Time: 1 hour
Minimum Height: 120 cm Minimum Age: 7 Maximum Weight: 120 kg

Ocean Adventure departs Paihia at 9.30am and 12pm on operating days for a 1½-hour high-speed cruise to Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock. The standard trip has no time ashore; a prebooked Otehei Bay extension adds an island stop and later ferry return. It runs daily 26 September–12 October and 26 December–7 February, and Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and public holidays 13 October–24 December and 8 February–30 April. Commentary, a life jacket and weatherproof jacket are included. It suits adventurous travellers aged 7 or older who meet the height and weight limits.

A bright yellow Ocean Adventure speedboat cruising at high speed, creating white waves on the blue waters of New Zealand.

Experience Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock

The Ocean Adventure combines the excitement of a high-speed boat ride with some of the Bay of Islands’ most impressive natural attractions. Leaving Paihia behind, cruise across open water towards the rugged Cape Brett Peninsula, stopping along the way for photos and commentary. When sea and weather conditions allow, your adventure continues through the iconic Hole in the Rock and into Cathedral Cave, where towering rock formations provide an unforgettable perspective on the region’s dramatic coastline.

A high-speed boat creating a perfect circular wake pattern on the ocean surface, captured from an aerial view.

There is plenty to discover beyond the scenery, with opportunities to spot dolphins, seals and native seabirds as you travel through the Bay of Islands. Your guides bring the journey to life with stories about the area and landmarks such as the Twin Lagoons, while multiple stops give you time to appreciate the views and capture photographs. You can also arrange a complimentary stop at Otehei Bay in advance, making it easy to spend more time exploring the Bay of Islands before returning to Paihia.

  • 1.5-hour scenic cruise with fantastic photo opportunities
  • Explore Cape Brett Peninsula and, weather permitting, travel through the iconic Hole in the Rock on Motukōkako and into Cathedral Cave
  • Engaging commentary about the Bay of Islands, including the Twin Lagoons
  • Multiple stops along the way for memorable photos
  • Option to extend your trip with a free stop at Otehei Bay (advance booking required)
  • Life jackets and water-resistant clothing supplied for your comfort and safety
  • Adults: 16 years and older.
  • Children: 7 - 15 years.
  • Minimum age: 7 years
  • This is not suitable for individuals under 120 cm, over 120 kg, or with certain medical conditions.
  • Minimum height of 150 cm may apply in certain weather conditions.
  • Check-in 15 minutes prior to departure
  • 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.

Frequently asked questions

Yes. Passengers can request a complimentary stop at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, although this must be arranged in advance. The island stop provides time to enjoy the beach, explore walking tracks or relax beside the water before returning to Paihia. Compare this option with other Bay of Islands cruises from Paihia.

Children must be at least seven years old and normally measure at least 120 centimetres tall, although a minimum height of 150 centimetres may apply in certain weather conditions. A maximum passenger weight of 120 kilograms also applies, and the cruise may not suit people with some medical conditions. Families can compare other options on the Bay of Islands family tours and activities page.

The cruise travels along the Cape Brett Peninsula towards Motukōkako, home to the famous Hole in the Rock. When sea and weather conditions permit, the skipper may take the vessel through the rock’s natural passage and into Cathedral Cave. A longer and more leisurely alternative is the Discover the Bay Hole in the Rock Cruise.

The Ocean Adventure Cruise combines high-speed excitement with scenic sightseeing, informative commentary and regular stops for photographs. Its agile vessel can explore dramatic coastal formations and sheltered locations while still completing the experience in approximately 90 minutes. Travellers looking for more exhilarating ways to explore the region can compare other Bay of Islands adventure tours.

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