Discover the Bay
Experience the spectacular scenery in an area rich in culture and history. Encounter diverse wildlife in their natural surroundings. Explore the Bay of Islands with us.
- Trip Duration: 4.5 hours
- 1 October- 30 April: Departs Paihia 9.00am , Departs Russell 9.10am Daily
Includes:
- Cruising among the 144 islands with skipper’s commentary
- Viewing marine mammals (dolphins, whales or orcas) on over 90% of our trips with a lifetime viewing guarantee
- A visit to the iconic Hole in the Rock and when conditions permit, travel through it
- Enjoy Explore hospitality during your unique 90min Otehei Bay experience including a visit to the Otehei Bay conservation centre
- Comfortable travel on our powercat, seats are limited to keep our trips photo friendly
Dolphin Discovery
From 1st May – 30 Sept this product is only available as part of our Discover the Bay product.
Encounter these intelligent and playful mammals up close in their natural environment. You may even get the chance to swim with the dolphins in the warmest waters in New Zealand. Once we find a pod of dolphins, Department of Conservation regulations and sea conditions will determine whether a swim is possible. Swimmers must be 8 years old and over and confident in the open water. The decision to swim is at skipper’s discretion.
- Trip Duration: 4 hours
- 1 December – 30 April: Departs Paihia 8.00am & 12.30pm Daily, Departs Russell 8.10am & 12.40pm Daily
Includes
- Cruising picturesque islands while searching for dolphins with a lifetime viewing guarantee
- Mask, snorkel, fins and a wetsuit
- A shower available onboard
- Travel on our catamaran purpose built for dolphin viewing and swimming with observation decks, side opening windows and safe access to the water for swimmers
- If time and conditions allow, you’ll also get to visit the majestic Otehei Bay
CURRENTLY NOT AVAILABLE
Hole in the Rock Experience
This tour is only available from 1 October to 30 April.
Best value option to visit the Hole in the Rock. Experience the time worn monolith standing guard over the entrance to the Bay of Islands.
1 October- 30 April: Departs Paihia 12.30pm Daily, Departs Russell 12.40pm
Bonus: Love your island experience? Extend your stay and return on one of our ferries for no additional charge. Subject to availability. Bookings essential. OR Free Happy Ferry Ticket to return from Russell at a later time.
Includes:
- Return cruise to the Hole in the Rock via Otehei Bay
- Travel through the Hole in the Rock when conditions permit
- See Cape Brett Peninsula and the Cape Brett lighthouse
- Cruise commentary from our knowledgeable local Skipper
- Comfortable travel on our powercat, seats are limited to keep our trips photo friendly
Ocean Adventure
This tour is only available from 1 October to 30 April.
Feel the exhilaration on this ex America’s Cup chase boat as you fast track your journey through the iconic scenery of the Bay to The Hole in the Rock.
- Trip Duration: 2 hours
- 1 October – 30 April: Departs Paihia 10.00am & 2.00pm Daily, Departs Russell 10.10am & 2.10pm Daily
Includes
- Experience the open air thrill of a rigid-hulled inflatable built for comfort and safety in the open ocean with padded seats
- Cruising among the 144 islands with skipper’s commentary
- Visiting the Cape Brett Peninsula and the iconic Hole in the Rock
- Visit the amazing Cathedral Cave, and if conditions permit, enter it
- Lifejackets and wet weather jacket provided.
