Bay of Islands Discovery Experience from Auckland incl. Hole In The Rock Cruise

Auckland, NZ
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (12 reviews)

Included

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    Opportunity to view marine mammals including dolphins, whales, seals, birdlife and more
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    Marvel at the breath-taking scenery en route
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    Fully guided private return transfers from Auckland
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    On-board wifi
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    Discover self-guided bush walks for spectacular views over the Bay of Islands
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    Complimentary pick up and drop off from Auckland
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    A local English-speaking tour escort throughout the tour
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    All Fees and Taxes
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    Stop off at Urupukapuka Island and lunch/dinner stop at Otehei Bay
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    Journey by boat across the pristine Islands
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    Private transportation
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    Complimentary High-Speed Internet on-board the minibus
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    Luxurious temperature controlled transportation in a minibus
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    Admission to 4.5 hours Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise
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    Witness the iconic Hole in the Rock
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    Listen to entertaining live commentary from your local Nature Guide
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    Discover some of the 144 stunning islands in the Bay of Islands on a scenic cruise
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    Complimentary refreshments and water on board
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    Engaging and informative commentary in English
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    Keep a lookout for dolphins, whales, or orcas (at mother nature's discretion)
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    In-vehicle air conditioning
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    Lunch stops at Otehei Bay
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    Enjoy a 1.5-hour island stop-over and walk, swim, paddle board, kayak or relax

Excluded

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    Dinner
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    Lunch
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    Breakfast

Pickup

Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)

Pickup Location
Aarangi Motel
Abaco On Jervois
Abstract Hotel
Acapulco Motel
Adina Apartment Hotel Auckland Britomart
Adina Citylife Auckland
Airedale Boutique Suites
Airport Harbour View Motel
Alpers Lodge
Anzac Court Motel
Ascot Epsom Motel
Ascotia Off Queen
Auckland Airport
Auckland City Hotel - Hobson St
Auckland Harbour Suites
Auckland Intl Airport
Auckland Newmarket Motel
Auckland Phoenix Palm Motel
Auckland Rose Park Hotel
Avani Auckland Metropolis Residences
Avondale Motor Inn
Best Western Ellerslie International Hotel
Best Western Newmarket Inn & Suites
City Towers
Copthorne Hotel Auckland City
Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality Group
Cornwall Park Motor Inn
Crown on Cintra Lane
Crowne Plaza Auckland, An Ihg Hotel
CT Motor Inn
Devonport Motel
Dilworth Motel
Dolphin Court Motel
Eastern Motel
Econo Lodge City Central
Ellerslie Palms Motel
Elliott St Apartments Hotel
Emerald Inn
Epsom Motel
Epsom Motor Inn
Fable Auckland, MGallery
Florence Court
Four Points by Sheraton Auckland
Grand Millennium Auckland
Greenlane Manor Motel
Greenlane Motel
Greenlane Motor Inn
Greenlane Suites Auckland
GreenPark Motel
Heritage Auckland
Hilton Auckland
Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre, an IHG hotel
Horizon By SkyCity
Hotel DeBrett
Hotel Fitzroy By Luminous
Hotel Grand Chancellor Auckland
Hotel Indigo Auckland, An Ihg Hotel
Ibis Auckland Ellerslie
ibis Budget Auckland Central
Imagine Beach Road
InterContinental Auckland, an IHG Hotel
Jw Marriott Auckland
Kingsgate Hotel Greenlane Auckland
Kiwi International Hotel
Knights Inn Auckland
La Quinta by Wyndham Ellerslie
M Social Auckland
Mercure Auckland Queen Street
Mount Eden Motel
Movenpick Hotel Auckland
Nesuto Stadium Hotel and Apartments
Novotel Auckland Ellerslie Hotel
Oaktree Motel
Ocean Inn Motel
Ohtel Auckland
Park Hyatt Auckland
Parklane Motor Inn
Parklane Motor Lodge
Parkside Hotel & Apartments
Parnell City Lodge
Parnell Pines Hotel
Peninsula Motor Hotel
Plum Lodge
Poenamo Hotel
President Hotel Auckland
Pullman Auckland Hotel & Apartments
QT Auckland
Quest Mount Eden
Quest on Mount
Quest Parnell
Quest Ponsonby
Ramada Suites By Wyndham Victoria Street West
Ranfurly Evergreen Motel
Rayland Epsom Motel
Rockfield Motel
Royal Park Lodge
Rydges Auckland
Sai Motels
Siesta Motel
SkyCity Hotel
So/ Auckland
Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour
Soho Hotel Auckland
Sudima Auckland City
Swiss-Belsuites Victoria Park, Auckland
Sylvia Park Motel
Takapuna International Motor Lodge
Takapuna Motor Lodge
The Chancellor on Hobson
The Devereux Boutique Hotel
The Esplanade Hotel, Bar & Restaurant
The Grand by SkyCity
The Hotel Britomart
The Parnell Hotel & Conference Centre
The Quadrant Hotel and Suites
The Sebel Auckland Viaduct Harbour
The Sebel Quay West Auckland
The Shakespeare Hotel
The Spencer Hotel
The Surrey Hotel
Travelodge Hotel Auckland Wynyard Quarter
Tudor Court Motor Lodge
Unicorn Motel
Voco Auckland City Centre, An Ihg Hotel
VR Auckland City
VR Queen Street
VR Takapuna
Waipuna Hotel & Conference Centre

What to expect

1

Auckland Central

We pickup travellers from most locations in the Auckland CBD location. If your pickup location is not available on the list, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will do our very best to accommodate your request.

Duration 15 minutes
2

Caffe Cozy

We stop to get some great coffee at your own expense and a comfort break before we continue our journey into the Northland region.

Duration 15 minutes
3
Whangarei isite Visitor Information Centre

We stop to get some great coffee at your own expense and a comfort break before we continue our journey into the Northland region.

Duration 10 minutes
4

Hundertwasser Public Toilets

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We visit one of the main tourist attractions in Kawakawa, the colourful public toilet designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. First visiting New Zealand in the 1970s for an exhibition of his work, he decided to make the country his second home and bought property on the Waikare inlet, east of Kawakawa. In 1998 with the help of the community he transformed the town’s public toilets into a work of art.

Duration 15 minutes
5

Cruise to the Hole in the Rock

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The Bay of Islands is a natural playground offering a huge variety of activities to keep you entertained for days. With scenic landscapes to explore by land, sea or sky, abundant wildlife including the playful dolphins, plenty of rich and colourful history and of course water sport opportunities around every corner. Once a booming, bustling and bawdy seafaring centre, it’s now a peaceful and pristine spot, and offers the perfect base for exploring Northland. You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to must-dos in the Bay of Islands! Embark on a voyage of discovery and enjoy the beauty of this area when you join a daily cruise to hole in the rock, the most popular dolphin watching cruise in the Bay of Islands.

Duration 240 minutes
Admission Admission Included
6

Auckland Central

After an exhilarating fun-filled adventure experience at Paihia, it is now time to head back to Auckland to conclude your evening and drop-off at your hotel in Auckland. We can also drop you at your accommodation in Paihia if you are staying locally in the region.

Duration 15 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    A full commentary is provided by your skipper. A limited number of multi-lingual headsets are available in German, French and Mandarin Chinese.
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    A portion of your fare contributes to marine mammal research and conservation.
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    Bring a camera or a phone with camera capability as this is the perfect place to get some great experiences photos.
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    Easy and good fitness level required.
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    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
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    Interacting with common and bottlenose dolphins, orca, whales and other marine mammals is subject to DOC regulations.
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for pregnant travelers
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    Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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    Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for the conditions, walking shoes, Sun protection, jacket/warm layer, & any essential personal items.
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    Snacks and drinks are also available for purchase onboard the vessel.
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    Specialized infant seats are available
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    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Tours are suitable for people of all ages and average fitness. Our scenic walks are short and optional. Please let our guide know at check in if you have any fitness concerns.
  • Additional information
    You are welcome to bring your own food. There is also hot and cold food available for purchase on board.
  • Additional information
    You will be able to purchase lunch or dinner, depending upon the sailing time, from the café at Otehei Bay.
Provided by ExperienceKart

What our experts say

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    Bring swimwear for the island stop.
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    Try the fresh seafood at Otehei Bay.
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    Capture photos of dolphins at Hole in the Rock.
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    Wear comfortable shoes for walks.
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    Check weather for best experience.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Discover the enchanting Bay of Islands on a luxurious private tour from Auckland. This unique experience invites you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the region, uncover captivating wildlife, and delve into its rich history. Embark on a cruise that will take you up close to the majestic cliffs of Cape Brett and through the iconic Hole in the Rock. As you navigate the pristine waters, keep an eye out for dolphins, whales, and other marine creatures. You'll also have the opportunity to stop at an idyllic island for a 1.5-hour break, where you can swim and explore the stunning surroundings. With so much to experience in the Bay of Islands, this tour promises an unforgettable journey of discovery.

What to expect?

During this 780-minute tour, you can expect a captivating adventure through the Bay of Islands. The itinerary includes various stops and activities that allow you to fully immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the region. Begin your journey in Auckland's CBD, where you'll be picked up and whisked away to embark on your experience. Enjoy a scenic ride as you venture into the Northland region, making pit stops for coffee and comfort breaks along the way. Visit the colorful public toilet in Kawakawa, a unique work of art designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. Finally, embark on a cruise to the famous Hole in the Rock, where you'll witness the stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife of the Bay of Islands.

Who is this for?

This private tour is suitable for anyone seeking a memorable adventure in the Bay of Islands. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply in search of a picturesque escape, this tour caters to all. Families, groups of friends, and solo travelers alike can enjoy the awe-inspiring scenery and wildlife this region offers. From dolphin watching to exploring scenic landscapes, there's something for everyone. If you appreciate the beauty of untouched nature and want to experience it firsthand, this tour is perfect for you.

Why book this?

This private discovery experience offers a level of luxury and exclusivity that sets it apart. By booking this tour, you'll have the opportunity to explore the Bay of Islands at your own pace, without the hassle of large crowds. The personalized nature of the tour ensures that you get the most out of every moment, with knowledgeable guides sharing fascinating insights about the region's history and wildlife. From the moment you step aboard the cruise, you'll be treated to breathtaking views, thrilling encounters with marine creatures, and the chance to relax and swim in pristine waters. This extraordinary tour promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

Good to know

During the tour, be prepared to spend approximately 780 minutes exploring the Bay of Islands. The itinerary includes convenient pick-up and drop-off in Auckland's CBD, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Pack comfortable shoes, swimwear, and sunscreen to fully enjoy the island stop and swimming opportunities. It's also a good idea to bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and the incredible wildlife you may encounter. The tour is suitable for all fitness levels, allowing everyone to participate in this unforgettable adventure in the Bay of Islands.

Reviews

Travelers who have experienced this Bay of Islands tour rave about its unique beauty and the incredible encounters with marine life. Many highlight the knowledgeable guides who go above and beyond to make the experience memorable. Visitors have been delighted by the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters and explore the picturesque islands. The views from the boat and the journey through the Hole in the Rock have been described as breathtaking. Overall, reviews consistently praise this tour for providing a perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and natural beauty, making it a must-do experience for all who visit the Bay of Islands.

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