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- English
Our full-day private tour offers a personal and flexible way to discover the Bay of Islands.
Departing from Auckland, enjoy a scenic drive through Northland’s rolling hills before arriving in Paihia, where your journey begins.
Step aboard a purpose-built catamaran for a 4.5-hour cruise designed for comfort and wildlife encounters. Look out for dolphins and other marine wildlife as you explore secluded coves, sandy beaches, and the islands that make this region special.
You’ll also visit the iconic Hole in the Rock and Cape Brett cliffs, conditions permitting, guided by local skippers who bring you close to the action.
Your experience includes an unhurried stop at Urupukapuka Island, with time to relax on the beach, enjoy a picnic, or hike to panoramic viewpoints.
To finish, return to Auckland along scenic backroads, taking in more of the Far North’s beauty.
More than a tour, this is a relaxed private journey designed around you.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
- If your accommodation is not yet confirmed, we suggest selecting The SkyCity Hotel for now—you can update it later if needed! - We offer convenient pick-ups from selected hotels. If your location isn’t listed, simply choose the nearest available option and meet us there. - Pick-ups start up to 20 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Please be ready and waiting outside by then for a smooth start. - Pick-up locations are planned based on each tour and may vary by day. If there are any changes to your pick-up spot, please let us know in advance. - Our guides make multiple stops and may arrive within a 10-minute window. To keep the tour on schedule, we recommend being ready 5–10 minutes early, as we are unable to wait for late arrivals. - As our hotel pickups operate from downtown CBD, guests located near the airport or South Auckland can be picked up from The Sebel, Auckland Manukau at 16 Lakewood Court, Manukau City Centre, Auckland 2104.
Itinerary
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1Auckland Central
Your journey begins with a friendly private transfer from your Auckland accommodation. Sit back and relax as you travel north through rolling countryside and scenic coastal roads. Along the way, your guide will share stories and insights about the region, setting the scene for your time in the Bay of Islands before arriving in Paihia.
3 hours 30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
From Paihia, set out on a 4.5-hour guided cruise to discover New Zealand’s rich marine life, with the chance to encounter dolphins, and journey to the famous Hole in the Rock. Travel aboard a comfortable catamaran as you sail through the bays and weave among the 144 stunning islands of this remarkable region.
1 hour 15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Experience the thrill of passing through the majestic Hole in the Rock with rock walls towering above you (conditions permitting) before taking in the beauty of the Bay’s inner islands.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Cruise past the historic Cape Brett Lighthouse, standing guard over the entrance to the Bay of Islands. Admire the dramatic cliffs and sweeping coastal views.
Admission ticket free -
3
Stop off at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, where you can enjoy a meal or drink at the café, swim at the family-friendly beach, or take a scenic walk to hilltop lookouts for sweeping views. If you prefer to unwind, relax on the outdoor bean bags and soak up the island atmosphere.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket included -
4
After your time at Urupukapuka Island, relax on the return cruise to Paihia. Take in the views of the Bay’s islands and coastline as you sail back across the sparkling waters.
45 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5Auckland Central
After your ocean adventure, we’ll journey back to Auckland through scenic backroads. As you travel, take in the beauty of New Zealand’s Far North returning with fond memories of an exciting day.
3 hours 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Part of the experience may not be recommended for people that are pregnant or have medical conditions, please consult with us prior to departure.
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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