Bay of Islands: Hole in the Rock Cruise & 2 Island Stops

Summary

Quiet coves, wild islands and the salty wind off Cape Brett

You’ll cruise among 144 islands with a local guide, walk up to Roberton Island’s lookout for sweeping views, pass through the famous Hole in the Rock if weather allows, and have time to swim or snorkel at two remote island stops. Expect salty air, honest stories, and quiet moments that linger after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

Someone hands me a mug of coffee as we leave Paihia Wharf — not fancy, just hot and strong, which is exactly what I need at 8am. Our guide, Jamie, grins and points out dolphins before I even finish my first sip. The boat’s engine hums low while we weave past these green islands scattered like puzzle pieces. There’s this feeling you get on the water here — a kind of hush under all that blue sky — that makes you forget about your phone for a while.

I’d never heard of Roberton Island before this day trip from Paihia, but now I can’t forget it. We climb up a short bush track (I was huffing more than I’d admit) and suddenly there’s this lookout with 360-degree views — lagoons below so clear you see fish darting in the shallows. Jamie tells us Māori stories about the twin lagoons; he laughs when I try to repeat one of the names (I absolutely butchered it). The sun feels sharp on my arms but there’s always a breeze off the bay. We sit for a bit without talking much, just listening to tui birds somewhere in the trees.

The main thing everyone talks about is the Hole in the Rock cruise part — and yeah, it’s wild to float right through that perfect archway at Motu Kokako. The sea gets choppy out there near Cape Brett Lighthouse; spray hits your face if you stand up front (which I did, obviously). Jamie says sometimes they can’t make it if weather turns rough — today we got lucky. On the way back we stop at another island (I think it was Urupukapuka?), where some people snorkel around reefs while others just nap on warm sand or eat their packed lunches. There’s no rush here, nobody herding you around.

I keep thinking about how quiet it felt out on those islands — even with our small group laughing over sandy sandwiches or arguing gently about which bird was which. If you want something loud or polished, maybe look elsewhere. But if you want a day where you smell salt drying on your skin and hear nothing but water slapping against rocks… well, this Bay of Islands cruise stays with you longer than you’d expect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bay of Islands cruise and island stops

• Check in at Pier 10, Paihia Wharf
• Scenic cruise among 144 islands
• Stopover on Roberton Island, walk to lookout
• Cruise through the Hole in the Rock
• View Cape Brett Lighthouse
• Stopover on second island for snorkeling and beach time

Top questions

How long is the Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour?

The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours from Paihia Wharf.

Are there two island stopovers included?

Yes, you'll stop at Roberton Island and another island chosen by your guide on the day.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, mask, snorkel and fins are included for use during island stops.

Is lunch included on this Bay of Islands cruise?

No lunch is included; bring your own or pre-order a packed lunch directly with the operator.

What happens if weather is bad for visiting Hole in the Rock?

If conditions aren’t safe to reach Motu Kokako (Hole in the Rock), an alternative sheltered route will be taken instead.

Where does this tour depart from?

The tour departs from Pier 10 at Paihia Wharf; arrive 15 minutes early for check-in.

Is this tour suitable for families or solo travelers?

Yes, it's suitable for all ages including families and solo travelers.

Can cruise ship passengers join this tour easily?

Cruise ship guests can take a free shuttle from Waitangi Wharf to Paihia Wharf for check-in.

What’s included

Your day includes scenic cruising among 144 subtropical islands with commentary from your local guide, two remote island stopovers (including Roberton Island), all snorkeling gear provided for swimming reefs, sightings of Cape Brett Lighthouse and Motu Kokako (the Hole in the Rock) if weather allows—plus time to walk bush trails or relax on quiet beaches before returning to Paihia Wharf.