Cruise the Bay of Islands aboard a luxury catamaran and discover the famous Hole in the Rock at Motukokako Island. Spy secluded beaches and coves, keep a sharp eye out for dolphins, and enjoy a stop at one of the islands.

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
Covid-19 precautions: Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
Mobile ticketing: Use your phone or print your voucher
Duration 3 - 4 hours: Check availability to see starting times.
Instant confirmation
Live tour guide: English
Audio guide included: Chinese, French, German

Highlights

Say ‘kia ora’ to dolphins, whales, and other marine life
Listen to engaging, informative commentary from your friendly crew
Sail among the 144 isles in the Bay of Islands
Cruise through the iconic and narrow Hole in the Rock
Benefit from Wi-Fi on board the cruise

Full description

Board your vessel in Paihia or Russell and glide out through the islands. Cruise along the Rakaumangamanga Peninsula to Cape Brett, where a historic lighthouse watches over the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’.

The natural sculpture, one of New Zealand's most popular attractions, was created from centuries of sea and wind erosion. According to Maori legend, local warriors paddled through the Hole in the Rock in their canoes before departing for battle. Drops of water from the cave roof were a good omen.

Take in the Grand Cathedral Cave before heading back into the bay. Keep an eye out for common and bottlenose dolphins, whales, and other marine life.

Cruise in comfort aboard the Dolphin Seeker with indoor and outdoor seating and the Bay of Island's largest outdoor viewing decks. Treat yourself to snacks and a licensed bar on board, or enjoy the Otehei Bar Café and Bar on Urupukapuka Island.

Includes

4.5-hour scenic cruise
Engaging and informative commentary in English
Indoor and outdoor seating
Large outdoor viewing deck
Dolphin and Hole in the Rock viewing

Food and drinks (available for purchase onboard)

Covid-19 precautions

Safety measures in place

All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned

Traveler requirements

You are required to bring and wear a mask
All participants who are over 12 years old must present proof of full vaccination

Prepare for the activity

Meeting point

Meeting point varies depending on option booked.

Important information

What to bring

Sunglasses
Biodegradable sunscreen
Sun hat
Jacket
Waterproof camera

Know before you go

Snacks and licensed bar are available onboard, or enjoy our menu at the stunningly located Otehei Bar Café and Bar on Urupukapuka Island
This tour operator is licensed by the Department of Conservation to view marine mammals, including Bottlenose Dolphins

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.5 /5

based on 226 reviews

Review summary

Guide
4.7/5
Transportation
4.4/5
Value for money
4.2/5
Safety
4.8/5

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Great afternoon, despite the weather. A beautiful location and we enjoyed the island stopover. The vessel is lovely and the Captain was a Master at maneuvering her and knowledgeable on the area. We could not go out to the Rock and only briefly saw dolphin, but are extremely grateful for the company honouring their Dolphin view guarantee and we have the opportunity to sail again for free.

June 12, 2021

Crew were excellent. Very Profesional and super friendly, great local knowledge. We were lucky enough to see a huge pod of dolphins. The boat was very clean and well looked after. Skipper was amazing, he made shooting through the hole in the rock look so easy. Great skill and confidence. Felt very safe on board. Three in our party including our 5 year old grand daughter. Highly recommend this trip. 5 stars... well done guys.

January 30, 2021

Excellent experience. Good commentary but not loud and continuous. Gave you time to enjoy the moment. Calm enough to go through the 'hole' which was great. Didn't see dolphins unfortunately but we made the most of the free trip if you didn't see them first time. Saw the dolphins that time so the bonus trip was worth it.

November 28, 2020

From Paihia or Russell: Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise

From Paihia or Russell: Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise

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