Hole in the Rock Cruise Bay of Islands Small Group Tour Paihia

Travel through the Hole in the Rock itself when conditions allow, then swim and snorkel from a second island stopover.

A small group cruise from Paihia explores 144 subtropical islands across the Bay of Islands Wildlife Sanctuary, passing the Hole in the Rock formation and Cape Brett Lighthouse, with stops on Roberton Island and a second island for swimming, snorkeling and a beachside lunch. The tour runs 4.5 hours with live guide commentary in English and includes snorkel gear on board.

Step-by-step itinerary

Bay of Islands scenic cruise and island stops

• Cruise from Paihia through inner harbour
• Cruise among 144 sub-tropical islands
• Listen to live commentary and watch for wildlife
• Stopover at Roberton Island and walk to lookout
• Experience the Hole in the Rock formation
• Sight Cape Brett Lighthouse
• Second island stopover for nature trails and swimming
• Enjoy beachside picnic lunch and relax
• Cruise back through outer islands to Paihia/Russell

The experience

The boat leaves Paihia and cruises through the inner harbour into the main group of islands, where a live guide provides commentary on the wildlife and history as you move among the 144 subtropical islands. The route passes the landing site of Captain James Cook on Roberton Island, where you walk to a lookout over the Twin Lagoons. The centerpiece is the Hole in the Rock itself (a natural arch in the Cape Brett Peninsula that the boat travels through when conditions permit), and the Cape Brett Lighthouse standing at the peninsula's end.

A second island stopover lets you choose how to spend the time: walk the nature trails, swim or snorkel (masks, fins and snorkels are free to use on board), or relax on the beach with a picnic lunch. The second island is picked on the day depending on weather and wind direction. The boat returns through the outer islands back to Paihia, with restrooms available on board throughout the journey.

What’s included

• Cruise route maps.
• passage through all 144 subtropical islands with live English-language guide commentary.
• entry to the Hole in the Rock formation (the only endorsed cruise operator).
• two island stopovers with walks and beach access.
• free snorkel masks, fins and snorkels on board.
• on-board restroom facilities.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 09:00 and 14:00

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (15 and older) · Child (4 to 14 years) · Infant (under 4): free

GroupUp to 49

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Low physical effortStroller-friendlyPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Island Getaway Tours

Is this one for you?The boat departs from Paihia, so you don't need a car to reach it. If you're staying in Russell, drop-off options are available from Russell Wharf. The 4.5-hour duration fits a half-day excursion, leaving time to explore Paihia or Russell before or after.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 14 years); Infant (under 4): free.

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.

Can I swim and snorkel on this cruise?

Yes. The second island stopover includes time to swim and snorkel. Masks, fins and snorkels are provided free on board. You can also walk the nature trails or relax on the beach instead if you prefer.

What is the Hole in the Rock and will we really go through it?

The Hole in the Rock is a natural arch formation at the end of the Cape Brett Peninsula. The boat travels through it when sea conditions permit. If conditions are rough, you'll still see it from the water. This is the only cruise company endorsed by the Maori owners of the site.

How long is the tour and what's included?

The cruise runs 4.5 hours from Paihia. Included are the full route through the 144 islands, live guide commentary, snorkel gear, restroom access on board and a cruise route map. A packed lunch is available as an add-on. Contact the operator directly for options.

Where do we stop and what can we do there?

You stop on Roberton Island to walk to the Twin Lagoons lookout and see the Captain James Cook landing site. A second island stopover (chosen on the day based on weather) offers nature trails, swimming, snorkeling or a beachside picnic lunch.

What wildlife might we see?

The cruise travels through the Bay of Islands Wildlife Sanctuary. The guide will point out marine mammals and other wildlife throughout the day, though sightings depend on the season and conditions.