Bay of Islands Half-Day Cruise & Island Hopping Tour

Summary

Snorkeling & Paddleboarding Adventure with Local Guides

No need to plan every detail: set off from Paihia for a relaxed Bay of Islands cruise with two island stopovers, snorkeling gear and paddleboards included, plus stories from local guides and plenty of wildlife spotting moments you’ll remember long after the trip.

What’s the experience like?

“You’re not going to believe how clear this water is,” our guide Sam grinned as we drifted up to Roberton Island. He was right — you could see every ripple over the sand, and I swear even the fish looked surprised to see us. The boat ride out from Paihia was breezy but not cold, just that salty air that makes your hair do weird things. There were only about ten of us, so it felt more like a day out with friends than a tour group. Sam told us stories about the islands — apparently there are 144 of them, which I still can’t quite picture — and pointed out a shag drying its wings on a rock. It looked like it was posing for us.

I didn’t expect the walk up to the lookout on Roberton Island to be so short (maybe 10 minutes?), but my legs still felt it after sitting on the boat. The view at the top: honestly, I just stood there for a minute without saying anything. You get this wild sweep of turquoise water and green islands all around, and if you squint you can spot the twin lagoons below. Someone’s sunscreen smelled like coconut — it mixed with the sea air in a way that made me hungry. We all kind of laughed at ourselves for taking so many photos.

The second stop changed depending on the wind; we ended up at Urupukapuka Island, which Sam said is his favorite for paddleboarding because there’s usually less chop. I tried paddleboarding for maybe five minutes before falling off (twice), but nobody cared — actually, one of the locals cheered when I finally stood up longer than ten seconds. Snorkeling was better anyway: cold at first, then you forget because you’re chasing these little blue fish through kelp forests. There was this moment underwater where everything went quiet except my own breathing — I still think about that sometimes.

We cruised back past more islands while Sam shared bits of local history and pointed out birds whose names I’ve already forgotten (one sounded like “tui”?). By then everyone was sun-warmed and salty and just sort of happy-tired. If you want a Bay of Islands half day cruise that feels personal but not forced, with real local guides who actually seem to love what they do… well, this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bay of Islands Cruise & Island Tour

• Check in at Pier 10, Paihia wharf
• Scenic cruise with island stopovers and water activities
• Explore Roberton Island and lookout walk
• Live commentary while cruising through islands
• Stopover at Waewaetorea, Moturua, or Urupukapuka Island with snorkeling and paddleboarding

Top questions

How long does the Bay of Islands half day cruise last?

The tour lasts about 3.5 hours from departure at Paihia wharf until return.

Are snorkeling equipment and paddleboards provided?

Yes, all snorkeling gear and stand-up paddleboards are included in your booking.

Is lunch included on this Bay of Islands cruise?

No lunch is provided; it's recommended to bring your own snacks or something to eat.

Can families with children join this island tour?

Yes, families with kids are welcome; it's suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Which islands will we visit during the tour?

You’ll always stop at Roberton Island; the second stop varies based on weather—could be Waewaetorea, Moturua or Urupukapuka Island.

What’s included

Your day includes small-group cruising among 144 islands from Paihia with two remote island stopovers (always Roberton Island plus another chosen by your guide), use of snorkel gear and paddleboards at no extra cost, interactive commentary from locals who know these waters inside out, plus time to swim or relax before heading back in the afternoon.