Bay of Islands cruise from Auckland: Hole in the Rock

Sail to the Hole in the Rock and step ashore on an island in the Bay of Islands

A full-day private tour from Auckland to the Bay of Islands includes hotel pickup, a scenic drive north to Paihia, and a 4.5-hour guided catamaran cruise through sparkling bays and past secluded islands. You'll sail toward Cape Brett Peninsula to see the famous Hole in the Rock, step ashore on Urupukapuka Island to relax on the beach, and enjoy lunch and snacks during the journey before returning to Auckland.

Step-by-step itinerary

Bay of Islands private tour and cruise

• Travel north from Auckland
• Arrive in Paihia
• Board catamaran for 4.5-hour cruise
• Sail to Hole in the Rock
• Admire coastal scenery and wildlife
• Stop at Urupukapuka Island
• Enjoy lunch on board
• Continue cruising Bay of Islands
• Return to Paihia
• Drive back to Auckland

The experience

The day starts with pickup from your Auckland hotel, airport or cruise port and a drive north through Northland's scenic landscapes to Paihia, where you board a comfortable catamaran. The 4.5-hour guided cruise takes you through the Bay of Islands toward Cape Brett Peninsula and Motukokako Island, where you'll see the Hole in the Rock: a natural arch carved through the headland that's one of the region's most recognizable landmarks. The route passes through sparkling bays and past dramatic coastal scenery. Keep watch for marine wildlife along the way.

You'll step ashore on Urupukapuka Island, where the beach and natural surroundings give you time to relax or take in views across the bay. Lunch and snacks are served during the cruise, and the catamaran is equipped with WiFi and complimentary bottled water. After returning to Paihia, you have time to settle in before the scenic drive back to Auckland, arriving at your hotel, airport or cruise port.

A professional driver and guide lead the full journey in an air-conditioned vehicle, and the tour operates in English. The 12-hour day includes all transportation, taxes, fees and meals, so there's no hidden cost at the end. A minimum of two people is required for the tour to operate.

What’s included

• Private transportation from your Auckland hotel, airport or cruise port.
• professional driver and guide.
• all taxes, fees and handling charges.
• air-conditioned vehicle.
• WiFi on board.
• bottled water.
• lunch and snacks.
• complimentary pickup and drop-off.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 09:30

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (3 to 12 years) · Infant (under 3)

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effortWheelchair accessibleStroller-friendlyInfant seats availableInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Auckland & Beyond Tours

Is this one for you?Book this if you're staying in Auckland and want a full-day excursion that includes round-trip transport and a guided cruise. Everything arranged in one booking.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (3 to 12 years); Infant (under 3).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What is the Hole in the Rock?

The Hole in the Rock is a natural arch carved through the headland at Cape Brett Peninsula, one of the Bay of Islands' most iconic landmarks. The catamaran sails toward it so you can see the formation from the water.

How much time do you spend on Urupukapuka Island?

The itinerary includes a stop on Urupukapuka Island where you can relax on the beach and enjoy the natural surroundings, though the exact duration is set by the guide based on the day's conditions and schedule.

Does the tour work for cruise ship passengers?

Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from cruise ports in Auckland. At booking, provide your ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time so the guide can time the return to your departure.

What's included in the meals?

Lunch and snacks are provided during the cruise. If you have dietary requirements or need a vegetarian option, advise the operator at booking.