Paihia Tours
Discover the Bay - Hole in the Rock cruise includes Buffet Lunch
4.5

Discover the Bay - Hole in the Rock cruise includes Buffet Lunch

By Explore Group
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There are 144 islands in northern New Zealand's Bay of Islands, and on this cruise from Paihia you can discover the highlights of many of them. Be amazed as your captain navigates your vessel through the Hole in the Rock, and go in search of the dolphins that call the bay home. This is a fun tour that combines nature with Maori culture.
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation

Ages 0-99, max of 75 per group
Duration: 4h 30m
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
More

Highlights
  • Learn all about the Bay of Islands from live on-board commentary
  • In summer, choose to stay longer on the island and get a later boat back
  • See dolphins swimming and playing in their natural habitat

  • Cruising among the 144 islands with skipper's commentary
  • Knowledgeable crew on board to answer your questions and provide commentary
  • 1.5 hour stop at Otehei Bay, Urupukapuka Island
  • When conditions permit, get up close to Cape Brett and travel through the Hole in the Rock
  • Includes an Island BBQ Buffet Lunch *From 1st December 2024 onwards*
  • Licensed by the Department of Conservation to view marine mammals
  • Entry/Admission - Rawhiti
What's not included
  • Transportation to/from attractions
  • Product Excludes lunch until 1 December 2024. Lunch available for purchase


Start:Multiple meeting point options.
  • Option 1
    Paihia Wharf, Bay Of Islands, Paihia 0200, New Zealand
  • Option 2
    Russell Wharf, Russell, Bay of Islands, 27 The Strand, Russell 0202, New Zealand
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    • Not wheelchair accessible
    • Stroller accessible
    • Near public transportation
    If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 3567P12

    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
    • Most travelers can participate
    • A portion of your fare contributes to marine mammal research and conservation
    • This trip is suitable for children
    • Life jackets will be supplied in the event of an emergency
    • Please note - this service is a code share with Fullers GreatSights and may operate on their vessel
    • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
    • 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
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 75 travelers

    • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

    If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 3567P12

    From
    ₱5,474.36
    per adult
    Select date and travelers

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    Itinerary
    • Pass by
      Paihia Harbour
    • 1
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    About the operator
    Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
    • Explore Group
      1,192
      Paihia, New Zealand
      Joined in January 2009
    • NoddonA
      0 contributions
      4.0 of 5 bubbles
      Hole in the rock at speeed
      Trip was great . Unfortunately the sound system was only half working and we were on the bad side of the boat. Skipper great and not his fault. Very exhilarating
      Written February 3, 2025
    • Jonathan P
      0 contributions
      3.0 of 5 bubbles
      3hr of missed expectations :-(
      Original booking cancelled as ‘fast boat’ had a mechanical fault - these things happen. We were transferred to the 3-hour boat cruise. This is probably better sold as a 2hr cruise or some sort of basic lunch included with a 3hr option. We were not so lucky to see any marine wild life. The Captain tried his best but overall it kinda felt like a 3hr search for animals we couldn’t find. So all rather ‘ordinary’. Sorry!
      Written January 8, 2025
    • Passenger49832824601
      0 contributions
      4.0 of 5 bubbles
      Fun and Fast but LOUD.
      Stunning boat ride! The boat went very fast but conditions were fine so not as much bouncing as we'd hoped for. The skipper failed to greet us as we arrived and hastily strapped us all in without a word! A smile and a greeting would have been appreciated. When he finally did greet us through the speakers we couldn't hear a thing as we were at the back and close to the engine. I recommend getting a seat at the front if you can, but it looked like most people couldn't hear him anyway. I'd want ear plugs next time if I was that close to the engine! Overall a fun experience with fabulous weather.
      Written December 29, 2024
    • pgc369
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Fun trip
      Great fun, well worth the money! The boat and all the equipment and clothing was first class. Pock a centre aisle seat if you'd rather not get wet! But it's only salt spray.
      Written December 29, 2024
    • Andrea B
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Dope boat ride
      Captains were chilled out & all round cool dudes Excellent choice in music for the atmosphere (80s rock goes hard) Great engagement with passengers too, very fun & funny
      Written December 10, 2024
    • Discover230745
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      So much fun!!!
      This was the best and quickest way to see the hole in the rock, it wasn’t scary and it was great we got so close and were able to go through the hole twice and once to go into the cave on the other side, our boat captain was fantastic and pointed out so many interesting things
      Written December 4, 2024
    • lisakelly2014
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Fast and furious
      This boat trip makes any other boat trips look tame ! This was so fast, fun and scary all at the same time. The crew were amazing and you better hold on cause it isn’t for the faint hearted. This was the best boat to see the hole in the rock and really good info along the way
      Written December 4, 2024
    • tungabhadram2024
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Had a blast!
      Loved the fast boating! Music was fun, tour guide was friendly. Even got to see dolphins! Really enjoyed our time! Can't wait for next time!
      Written November 7, 2024
    • Alipa50
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Ocean adventure
      This is the fastest boat to the hole in the rock lasting only 90 mins. It was a fast paced adventure bump by bump over the waves. Great commentary from the skipper. Life jackets and shower protective coats provided. This was a fun trip but not for the faint hearted or frail!
      Written April 12, 2023
    • NapierAro
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      A Great Exploration
      We decided to do the trip with Explore it to Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island. It was a great choice. The ferry itself was very comfortable and clean with great personable communication from the Master about the history of the islands along with information about the marine life We loved our time on the island and coming into the winter season, we were able to walk to bays that we had to ourselves. Reasonable food available from the cafe there, this made a very relaxing day out.
      Written May 3, 2022
    • 1AnnetteA
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Great day out
      Great day out with a friendly crew & fantastic boat. Enjoyed seeing all the scenery with a good commentary along the way which kept everyone interested and informed. Highly recommend a day out with this company.
      Written April 17, 2022
    • Erinclooo
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Ocean Adventure
      Originally had a half day dolphin discovery tour that we switched at last minute for the ocean adventure… such a great decision, Blair was a fantastic Captain and even though we are locals it was great to learn something new about the Bay. Really cool trip! Thanks guys!
      Written April 16, 2022
    • taniapapera
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      HOLE IN ROCK, STAFF ARE EXTRA MILE FOR SURE!
      Staff were supreme, all round! Chloe checked us in. We were actually booked for another day (my mistake) but thankfully we were accomodated for. Our Captain was an absolute giggle, his commentary was crack up mixed with local knowledge! Staff onboard went ABOVE and BEYOND ...I requested a birthday shout out to Miss 12 and we got a full birthday karaoke tune from Andy over the mic, with other passengers joining in song. Stuff of legends! Also he alerted kitchen staff at Otehei Bay and kitchen pulled together a wee bday treat just for her, he also happened to be the one that (finally) spotted Dolphins on the day, GIVE THAT MAN A RAISE!! Totally made the day more special and memorable Feeding Schnapper off the wharf was a highlight (Thanks again Cpt for the bread) Great day, made even greater by people who put in that bit extra, THANK YOU! Thank you Taera/Taira? The lovely crew(wo)man Courtney and the legendary Andy. Absolute champions! From birthday girl Tyla & Family of 6.
      Written April 3, 2022
    • Nikki M
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Bay of Islands boat cruise
      Our family had a fantastic Bay of Islands boat trip seeing dolphins surrounding the boat, the hole in the rock and a beautiful stopover at Urupukapuka Island. We learnt so much from the crew who were helpful in so many ways - a day that catered for all ages!!
      Written February 24, 2022
    • VickiF2006
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Brilliant
      Great experience. Friendly staff. Very clean well kept boat. Went across to Otehei bay great trip. Beautiful spot.
      Written February 19, 2022
    See all 1,192 reviews
    These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

    Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

    Popular mentions

    4.5
    4.5 of 5 bubbles128 reviews
    Excellent
    91
    Very good
    21
    Average
    6
    Poor
    6
    Terrible
    4

    These reviews have been automatically translated from their original language.
    This service may contain translations provided by Google. Google disclaims all warranties, express or implied, with respect to translations, including any warranties of accuracy, reliability, and any implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and freedom from forgery.

    JaneMLondon
    London144 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Apr 2024 • Couples
    The boat picks up from Pahia and then Russell. It was busy but everyone had enough space. The boat crew were great - especially to those who had a bit of sea sickness (the hole in the rock is out of the shelter of the Bay, so the sea there is rougher). Nice views of the Bay and we particularly enjoyed having enough time at the island stop to do an hour's good walk to some of its higher viewpoints (or you could just stop at the cafe there instead). You will need to pay for parking in Pahia as the trip length exceeds the free parking time in the town. If you also want to visit Russell you could get off there on the way back and then catch a ferry back to Pahia later on (paying the one way ferry fare)
    Written May 16, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Bushstravellin
    Goulburn, Australia22 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Dec 2024 • Couples
    As it was a bit of a wet miserable day we were given the option to change to another day from the captain. As we were only in Paihia for a few days and the weather was not getting any better we went ahead and was not disappointed. On the way out we were treated to a lengthy display of dancing dolphins and were fortunate that the weather held off to view some of the beautiful islands and marine park. The staff were informative and helpful. The captain guided us through some rough weather to a beautiful island where we had a lovely buffet lunch and a hike to the top of the hill for some magnificent views. As I’m sure it would be better on a sunny day overall it was a great trip and good value for money.
    Written January 19, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Jean Michel G
    48 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    It's starting to get cold in March in New Zealand. The guide kindly offered his jacket to my wife. Moreover, as it was very windy that day, he reimbursed part of the excursion. He was very attentive to the well-being of the passengers and left plenty of time to take our photos.
    I highly recommend it.
    Google
    Written March 22, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Terri S
    1 contribution
    2.0 of 5 bubbles
    Jan 2023
    Can't fault the crew & skipper but due to bad weather we were unable to go to the hole in the rock. Instead had a tour of various islands, looking for dolphins, sadly none to be seen. But the annoying thing was that we stopped at Otehei Bay, Urupukapuka Island and were told we couldn't stay on the boat as they were doing some safety checks. We alighted but to use the facilities at the cafe we had to purchase drinks/food or go for a walk or shelter under a tree as it was raining etc.. Can't deny the beauty of the place but best experienced in fine weather. Also wish we were informed or the "alternate" cruise before we left the wharf and we would have chosen not to go on it and rebooked for another day/time.
    Written January 8, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    We are so sorry to hear about your experience. Otehei Bay is a beautiful spot and part of our standard trip itinerary - as you have suggested this is much easier to enjoy on a fine day - however, we certainly would not expect our guests to shelter under a tree in the rain. Our passengers are always welcome to use the facilities at the cafe onsite even if they are not purchasing anything - our sincere apologies if this is not your experience. With regards to alternate cruise routes - from time to time due to weather we do alter our cruise route for the comfort and safety of our passengers. This is noted in our booking confirmation and in the event that this occurs we do our best to communicate to all passengers prior to departure. Our apologies if you were not informed of this prior to your departure - we will make sure these procedures are reviewed so this does not happen to any guests in future. Thanks you for sharing your experience with us - we will take your comments into consideration to ensure we improve communication around these points.
    Written January 11, 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Kylee W
    18 contributions
    3.0 of 5 bubbles
    Cruise was ok. Seating uncomfortable and squishy. Headed out to hole in the rock. Then stopped at Island for an hour. Stood waiting for boat longer than that as it was late returning. Food was expensive and not good. Overall day cost us as a couple over $400 and wasn't worth it.weve been on alot better cruises in Tassie and Sydney which had lunch provided too and saw heaps of seals and dolphins.
    Written January 8, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    amberlievable
    Clevedon, New Zealand17 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Absolutely lovely cruise with some really interesting history shared. Unfortunately the weather was too rough for us to cruise through the hole in the rock and we were not lucky enough to see any marine mammals (though they say if we don't see any marine mammals we will be provided with a voucher to go another time. This voucher hasn't been provided, but I just followed this up). Views of the islands, hole in the rock, lighthouse and just being out in the ocean was all spectacular! The stop on Urupukapuka island was awesome: great restaurant (which was reasonably priced and right on the water front), great hiking options of varying difficulty, and crystal clear water for swimming. Highly recommended.
    Written February 8, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    p4sta
    London, UK161 contributions
    2.0 of 5 bubbles
    This review relates to the Otehei Bay restaurant only not the boat trip.. OMG considering the restaurant must know when the boats are coming in , they were not prepared. I waited in a huge queue for two coffees waited while the coffee station was set up, some rubbish was removed, a member of staff stood around not effective and the queue of people waited and waited and waited, receiving a really poor service. one coffee was made and kept behind the counter whilst milk was made for a host of other coffees and the milk preparation took somewhere between 5 and 10 minutes to be handed a hot coffee and one Luke warm coffee. With the queue waiting it wouldn’t have been fair one the others to complain or hey even get the server to give me the coffee that was getting colder. After one attempt I was told it’ll be ready in a few ticks which turned out to be 5/10 minutes. Hopeless. The boats only come in at certain times so the restaurant must be able to prepare better. As for food well this is hot meals mostly with chips, there are no sandwiches , cakes or cabinet food. Strange as the boat always arrives at 11.30 am - pre lunch - and leaves at 12.15 pm. I’ve been here twice so far and each time not impressed.
    Written March 21, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    ash Gibson
    13 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Apr 2021 • Solo
    I really love the friendly and amazing staff on this cruise, I had to go 4 times to finally see dolphins, in saying that each time I went I got to see different things and different weather and swell patterns, by then I had become acquainted with the staff Brooklyn, Courtney and Andy the skipper. They are true to the word you don't just go again free once you go until you see dolphins. Was great to see both the Common and bottlenose dolphins on my 4th trip, but bittersweet to not be going on the boat again to hang with the crew, I almost got a job on there I think. Haha. I highly recommend this cruise to anyone planning on visiting the Bay of Islands or to anyone who lives here also.
    Thank you for taking care of me...
    Written April 22, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Mick O
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Nov 2023 • Solo
    I actually went on the high speed 90 min hole in the rock tour. The trip was great, the captain "prince" marty was very knowledgeable with a great sense of humour. At 90km an hour it was a fantastic experience
    Written November 27, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Cnd Grl
    8 contributions
    2.0 of 5 bubbles
    Jan 2020
    If it is a proper tour you are after I do not recommend this company. I find that when booking, it was very misleading. This is a ferry boat! Your "tour" is boating around the islands dropping off other passengers, except for when you get to the hole in the rock - but once you're at the main attraction, it is short lived. Every proper tour I have been on will at least provide complementary tea and coffee, This is NOT the case. It was also very difficult to hear what I am sure was interesting information about the area and the Maori history from the Skipper, however the sound system and/ or the size of the boat made it near impossible to hear anything. This includes instruction about when to be back on the ferry after you have been dropped off for your lunch. When we saw people making their way back to the dock, so did we;However we were last on and as we were coming down the dock only moments after the others the Skipper and deckhand were waving their arms at us to run, my friend has bad knees and that was not an option. They were impatient and rude regarding the additional 1 minute it took us to get down the dock. The lunch was nothing special, not good or bad. Parking is limited around the office and for the length of the tour you're looking at paying in a lot- I would walk from your accommodation if possible. Knowing what I know now, I wish we would have booked on a smaller boat, a proper tour and save on money.
    Written February 8, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Hi CndGrl7, Our sincere apologies - it doesn't sound like you experienced the kind of trip we aim to deliver. We will be taking all your feedback on board to avoid similar issues in future.
    Written March 15, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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    *Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

    Discover the Bay - Hole in the Rock cruise includes Buffet Lunch provided by Explore Group

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