Bay of Islands: Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island BBQ Lunch

Summary

Bay of Islands boat trip with marine wildlife and island BBQ lunch

You’ll cruise past green islands from Paihia Wharf, spot dolphins with commentary from your skipper, squeeze through the Hole in the Rock if weather allows, then relax over a BBQ lunch at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island—with time to swim or hike before heading back. It’s not just scenery; it’s laughter, salt air, and stories you’ll carry home.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the way the boat rocked gently as we left Paihia Wharf—seagulls wheeling overhead and that salty, almost sweet smell you get near the islands. Our skipper, Pete, started talking about the Māori legends around these waters, but honestly, I was too busy staring at all those green islands scattered like puzzle pieces. Someone pointed out a pod of dolphins just off to our right—tiny splashes and then smooth grey backs arching up. It was quieter than I expected out there, except for the hum of the engine and kids giggling every time a dolphin popped up.

I didn’t think we’d actually go through the Hole in the Rock (I’d seen photos but it looks so narrow), but Pete grinned and said conditions were good. We squeezed through slowly—everyone kind of held their breath—and you could hear water echoing off the stone. The light inside was this weird blue-grey, cold and sharp, and then suddenly we were back in sunlight again. I caught myself grinning like an idiot. One of the crew told us stories about Cape Brett lighthouse and how rough it can get out here when storms roll in. Made me glad for calm seas.

Lunch at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island was honestly better than I expected—BBQ chicken, salads with crunchy local veggies, even veggie skewers for my partner (she’s picky). We sat under these big old pōhutukawa trees watching little kids chase seagulls across the sand. There was enough time for a swim—the water’s colder than it looks—or you could just wander up one of those dusty trails to see crazy views over all 144 islands. I tried pronouncing “Urupukapuka” properly; Li from the crew laughed at my attempt (fair enough). The air smelled like sunscreen and grilled meat mixed together.

I still think about that view from above Otehei Bay—sunlight bouncing off water so bright you have to squint, wind tugging at your hat. You know how some places just feel easy? This was one of them. We headed back with sunburned noses and sand stuck between our toes, not really wanting to talk much because sometimes it’s better to let a day settle quietly in your head.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bay of Islands cruise and island lunch

• Board boat at Paihia Wharf
• Visit Hole in the Rock
• Travel through Hole in the Rock (if possible)
• Island BBQ lunch at Otehei Bay
• Swim at sheltered beach
• Walk to island viewpoints
• Visit island gallery and see native birds

Top questions

How long is the Bay of Islands Hole in the Rock cruise?

The tour is a half-day experience including cruising among islands and a 1.5 hour stop at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island.

Is lunch included on this Bay of Islands boat tour?

Yes, an island BBQ buffet lunch is included during your stopover at Otehei Bay Cafe.

Can you swim during this Bay of Islands cruise?

Yes, there’s time for a swim at the sheltered beach during your 1.5 hour stopover on Urupukapuka Island.

Will we see dolphins or marine mammals?

The cruise is licensed to view marine mammals like dolphins if spotted during your journey.

Where does this cruise depart from?

You board at Pier 5 from Paihia Wharf in the Bay of Islands region.

Are children allowed on this tour?

This trip is suitable for children and infants can ride in prams or strollers onboard.

Is there commentary or information provided?

The skipper provides live commentary about history and wildlife throughout the cruise.

What else can you do on Urupukapuka Island?

You can walk to viewpoints, visit a gallery, spot native birds or just relax on the beach during your stopover.

What’s included

Your day includes cruising among 144 islands with live skipper commentary from Paihia Wharf; passing Cape Brett Lighthouse; going through Hole in the Rock when conditions allow; viewing marine mammals if spotted; plus a 1.5 hour stopover on Urupukapuka Island with an included BBQ buffet lunch at Otehei Bay Cafe—enough time for swimming or hiking before returning by boat.