The Rock Classic Overnight Cruise is a tour of the Bay of Islands with loads of fun activities like target shooting, dusk fishing, night kayaking, snorkeling, island exploring, informative chats with the knowledgeable crew and more.
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 22 hours
- Check availability to see starting times.
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English
- Private group available
Experience
Highlights
- Fish for your dinner as the sun sets over the islands
- Kayak in the dark to see the Milky Way, possibly hear kiwi calling and experience phosphorescence
- Dive into the waters of the Bay of Islands & meet local fish & collect seafood to try
- Taste Kai Moana (Seafood) straight from the ocean
- Hear native birdsong & see them soar above you as you explore subtropical islands with an experienced guide
Full description
The only overnight cruise in the Bay of Islands, offering snorkeling, kayaking, island walks and the opportunity to catch or collect seafood. Come aboard The Rock for a truly unique experience - with a homely atmosphere, a warm welcome from our crew and a variety of awesome activities to keep you entertained and immersed in this amazing part of the world.
Departing from Paihia Wharf, this is the best way to spend 22 hours in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand.
Day 1
Start: 5:00 PM, END: up to you
Departs at 5 pm, grab a drink and enjoy a 2-3hr cruise out to the islands. Give the target shooting a go as we cruise. Once on anchor in a sheltered bay, we’ll do a spot of dusk fishing. A healthy snapper baked on the barbecue is a welcome addition to an already delicious buffet dinner (subject to guest’s fishing ability, of course!).
Later you can choose to go night kayaking to marvel in the phosphorescence (some call it “fairy dust”) and lie back for a star-gazing session - your guide will point out the major constellations, planets and galaxies. If you’re still up for action, you can jump in the sea for a night swim before settling in for a drink by the fire.
Day 2
Start: 8:00 AM, END: 3:00 PM
Sunrise at sea is spectacular – you can watch it from your bed if you’re not an early bird! The breakfast bell goes at 8 am. We serve a traditional kiwi breakfast and then haul anchor and get underway for an exploration of the islands. If you’re up early enough, you might even get a chance for a quick wake-up swim with the crew.
Kayaking, snorkelling, gathering fresh seafood, exploring WWII remains, trekking across islands enjoying stunning vantage points and visiting ancient Maori fortifications. If conditions allow, we’ll gather mussels from the kelp-covered outer reefs to enjoy on the way home (along with the unique experience of eating sea urchins raw if you’re brave enough).
You will have time to enjoy the remote beaches - perfect for a game of beach cricket or volleyball.
On the homeward cruise, enjoy those mussels, freshly steamed, and watch out for the abundant marine and bird life…hopefully you’ll even see dolphins! Arrive back at Paihia wharf at approximately 3 pm.
Includes
- Onboard Cabin Accommodation (share or private options available)
- Buffet Dinner
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- All Activities (Target shooting, Fishing, Night Kayaking, Snorkelling, Island Walks, Collecting Kai Moana, onboard games including pool.)
- Tea, Coffee & Water
- Drinks (licensed bar onboard)
Not suitable for
- Wheelchair users
COVID-19 precautions
Customers must book this activity online because the ticket office is closed
Safety measures in place
- All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Meeting point
Meeting point varies depending on option booked.
Important information
What to bring
- Warm clothing
- Change of clothes
Not allowed
- Pets
- Smoking
- Luggage or large bags
- Alcohol and drugs
Know before you go
- There will be almost everything you need for your Bay of Islands experience. However, it is recommended that you bring along a few personal items...
- -Nibbles and snacks ( dinner is after sun goes down so this can be late)
- -Towel
- -Swimwear
- -Sunscreen
- -Warm jacket (NZ weather can change quickly)
- -Camera (limited charging is available on board)
- -Bring just an overnight bag (there is limited space onboard)
- -Light footwear or sandals are fine (please NO hiking boots)
- -Cash or card (we have EFTPOS)
- You are welcome to bring snacks and non-alcoholic beverages aboard. If you have any special dietary requests or allergies, please contact the local operator after booking.
