Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour - with two island stopovers
Overview
Available languages
4 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Escape the crowds and discover the Bay of Islands on our 4.5 hour personalised and interactive Island Cruise & Tour.
Locally owned and operated, with a passion for sharing our beautiful area.
Suitable for all ages, families, solo travellers and couples...experience it all!
• Scenic cruise among 144 sub-tropical Islands
• Two remote island stopovers
• Native bush walks and 360 degree views from the island lookout points
• Visit the famous Hole in the Rock and Cape Brett Lighthouse
• Snorkel untouched island reefs
• Lookout for unique wildlife throughout the day
• Interactive commentary and information
• Scenic cruising among 144 subtropical islandsThere's no better way to spend the day....join us on our Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour
Additional Info
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
CRUISE SHIP PASSENGERS: If you are arriving in Waitangi Wharf, the cruiseship provides FREE shuttle buses for cruise ship guests to transfer you into Paihia (5 minute bus ride)
The bus will drop you off outside the Paihia Wharf. Check-in at PIER 10
Suitable for families, couples and solo travellers
Suitable for all ages
Please bring a swimsuit & towel, and appropriate clothing for the day
Please bring lunch& drink for the day
Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
No-show will forfeit 100% of the ticket cost
Cruise-ship guests need to insure their travel insurance covers them in the unlikely event that the cruise-ship does not stop in port, as we are unable to refund in these situations.
What To Expect
Island Getaway Tours
Check in at Pier 10, on the Paihia Wharf. Please arrive 15 minutes before your departure time
Bay of Islands
This Cruise and Island Tour promises an unforgettable experience, with highlights including 2 island stopovers (the enchanting Roberton Island) and a second location determined on the day. Marvel at the breathtaking natural wonder known as the "Hole in the Rock" and the iconic Cape Brett Lighthouse. Immerse yourself in the beauty of this pristine marine playground as you explore secluded coves, witness rich marine life, and soak in the picturesque landscapes. A perfect blend of relaxation and exploration awaits on this Bay of Islands excursion.
Options
Russell Wharf Departure
Starting point: Russell Wharf, Russell, Bay of Islands, 27 The Strand, Russell 0202, New Zealand
Paihia Wharf Departure
Starting point: Paihia Wharf, Paihia 0200, New Zealand
What‘s Included
Swim, Snorkel and relax (Mask, Snorkel and fins provided)
Cape Brett Lighthouse
Scenic Cruise among 144 Islands
Smaller group tours
Two remote island stopovers
The Famous Hole in the Rock
Wildlife spotting, commentary and information throughout the day
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Lunch
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
834 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Excellent trip to Hole in the Rock and around Bay of Islands!!
ylfun,Jun 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My friend and I wasn't sure what to expect when we booked the 4.5 hour cruise from Paihia. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves on the trip with Hamish and Bluebell. They are really good that they talked to everyone personally and it made travelling with them much more comfortable. We had a short stop at Roberton Island where we saw some oystercatchers and a dotteril. My friend walked up the trail to the view point at a hill top which has a spectacular view. I walked around the coast and took pictures of the beautiful bays and rock formations. We then went out to the open sea to Hole in the Rock where we saw seals and birds like Pied Shag. We then sailed through the hole to go back to calmer seas. We stopped at Otehei where there's a lovely cafe for hot food and drink. Hamish and Bluebell arranged for some fish foods and we fed some fish at the wharf. Lovely snapper. Throughout the journey, Hamish will share stories and history of the islands, like the one involving James Cook. We thoroughly enjoyed the trip and I'm glad we chose this tour. Thank you Hamish and Bluebell
Excellent
Mittal G,May 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Its a great experience very helpful crew with 2 island stops and a beautiful experiance and lived the cruise
A well organised trip by a professional & friendly crew.
Jenny T,May 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Well organised Boat Tour. Staff were very friendly & provided lots of helpful information as we cruised around to Hole in the Wall. We were lucky to spot dolphins close up on the journey. Crew provided blankets as the day was windy & cool. Also our Boat was able to motor through the Hole providing some great photos. Recommended.
Great Trip Around The Bay of Islands
Andy B,May 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Fantastic trip today. Bluebell and Hamish looked after us. Very informative, showed us loads of cool stuff. Two stops made this trip extra special. Highly recommend this.
Just Book it!!
nancywS9416SN,May 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great afternoon spent with Captain Hamish and his lovely crew. The team made sure that they took the opportunity to talk to everyone on board and answer any questions they had. The sun gods were on our side as it turned into the perfect day. We were picked up at the Paihia Wharf as we were on a cruise ship. There was a stopover at Robertson Island with its walking trail that offered a great photo op at the top that gives a 360 degree view. Well worth the walk up, we got beautiful pictures. Felt very safe even with the water being a little choppier than I am used to when the captain was navigating the Hole in the Rock. It was amazing!! So glad we booked this excursion over the larger boat tours offered.
excellent trip with stop overs on two islands and views of Motu Kokāko helpful and engaged crew and history well told
Philip B,May 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent trip stopping at two islands as well as viewing Motu Kokāko. history well told and helpful and engaged crew.
A nice visit to a couple of Islands.
Sue S,May 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Generally a good tour. Travellers should know that your booked tour date may not proceed if they have insufficient numbers and you will find this out a couple of days beforehand but you might be offered an alternative date, which happened in our case. Also note that once on the water the Captain may choose not to proceed to the Hole in the Rock if conditions are too rough. This also occurred on our tour.
Great day on the water
fabdog,Apr 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had originally booked the 3 hour, but no one else did so we took the 4.5 hour cruise. Boat picks up in Russell as well before heading out. First stop on island with hike up to viewpoint for great views. The itinerary was adjusted to stop at second island where you could swim or snorkel but the tide was low and the water murky so no one did that. You can order lunch ahead, bring your own (nice areas to picnic) or you can eat at the cafe near the dock. Then off to hole in the rock, which was awesome. Captain brought the boat around several times so folks wouldn't all have to crowd on one side. Then he was able to go through (they can't always) and then head back. The crew was very friendly, nice day on the water
A great way to see the beautiful Bay of Islands
Michele S,Apr 29, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The cruise visits some of the many stunning locations in the Bay of Islands. The crew were great - engaging and informative- and the Captain’s commentary was from the perspective of a true local. Recommended. (Note there are 3 options for lunch - order a picnic pack as part of the cruise, take your own, or lunch at the cafe at the Otehei Bay stopover)
Great boat trip to the Bay of Islands
HDavidMc,Apr 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great day tour to the Hole in the Rock and a great way to see the Bay of Islands. Hamish and the crew were fantastic, with informative commentary. The two island stops are excellent, especially the lookout on Robertson Island. We were lucky enough to see a pod of dolphins and some seals. Overall highly recommended.
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Operated by Island Getaway Tours