3 Hours // Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Stopover

This captivating 3-hour cruise in New Zealand’s stunning Bay of Islands promises an immersive experience amidst the region’s natural wonders. Set out on a small group tour, limited to just 49 participants, as you navigate through 144 picturesque islands and witness the iconic Hole in the Rock formation. The journey also includes a scenic stopover at either Urupukapuka or Roberton Island, where you’ll have the chance to engage in an interactive fish feeding experience at a voluntary marine reserve. With breathtaking views and diverse wildlife surrounding you, this adventure is sure to leave a lasting impression. But the true highlight may lie in what awaits you beyond the horizon.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Paihia.

Key Points

• Explore the iconic Hole in the Rock, Cape Brett Lighthouse, and Urupukapuka or Roberton Island during a 3-hour small group cruise in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand.
• Interact with vibrant marine life by feeding schools of fish at a voluntary marine reserve, offering a unique wildlife experience.
• Enjoy a hassle-free tour with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a personalized experience with a maximum of 49 travelers.
• Discover the stunning natural beauty of the Bay of Islands, featuring 144 islands along the northeastern coast of New Zealand.
• Benefit from a comprehensive package with flexible cancellation policies, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable journey.

Tour Overview

The Hole in the Rock Cruise offers a 3-hour scenic tour among the 144 stunning islands of the Bay of Islands in New Zealand, allowing visitors to explore the Hole in the Rock, Cape Brett Lighthouse, and Cape Brett Peninsula.

On this activity-filled excursion, travelers will have the opportunity to feed schools of fish at a voluntary marine reserve and stop over at either Urupukapuka or Roberton Island, depending on wind conditions.

The tour takes place in small groups of no more than 49 people and includes hotel pickup and drop-off.

Participants must check in at Pier 10 of the Paihia Wharf at least 20 minutes before departure, and can take advantage of the tour’s free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior to the experience.

Inclusions

A small group tour with a maximum of 49 travelers is included, along with hotel pickup and drop-off. Participants must check in at Pier 10, Paihia Wharf at least 20 minutes before departure, and the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the experience.

Inclusion	Detail
Small Group Tours	Maximum of 49 travelers
Hotel Pickup and Drop-off	Convenient transportation
Check-in	At least 20 minutes before departure
Free Cancellation	Up to 24 hours prior to the experience

This comprehensive tour package ensures a personalized and hassle-free experience for visitors to explore the stunning Bay of Islands in New Zealand.

Meeting Point

Located at Paihia Wharf in the Bay Of Islands, New Zealand, the meeting point for this tour is Pier 10. Participants must check in at this designated area at least 20 minutes before the scheduled departure time. The tour begins and ends at this convenient location, providing easy access for both pickup and drop-off.

Some key highlights for the meeting point include:

1. Proximity to local amenities: Pier 10 is situated in the heart of Paihia, allowing participants to explore the charming town before or after the cruise.

2. Ample parking: There are several public parking options available near the wharf, making it easy for travelers to arrive at the meeting point.

3. Scenic views: Paihia Wharf offers stunning vistas of the Bay of Islands, setting the stage for an unforgettable tour experience.

Accessibility and Requirements

Although not wheelchair accessible, the Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Stopover is suitable for all ages, with stroller access available. Infants must sit on laps during the 3-hour tour.

Minimum passenger numbers apply, and the experience may be canceled if not enough participants are booked.

The cruise explores the Bay of Islands, visiting 144 islands, the Hole in the Rock, Cape Brett Lighthouse, and Cape Brett Peninsula.

Passengers can feed schools of fish at a voluntary marine reserve and stop over at Urupukapuka or Roberton Island, depending on wind conditions.

With a maximum of 49 travelers, the small group tours provide an intimate and immersive sightseeing experience in the stunning natural landscapes of New Zealand’s Bay of Islands.

Customer Reviews

Travelers have left overwhelmingly positive reviews for the Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Stopover, with a perfect 5.0 rating across 7 total reviews on platforms like Viator and Tripadvisor.

Customers have highlighted several standout aspects of the experience:

1. The exceptional service from the crew, who were knowledgeable, friendly, and went above and beyond to ensure an enjoyable journey.

2. The incredible wildlife sightings, including schools of fish that were eager to be fed at the voluntary marine reserve.

3. The breathtaking scenery of the Bay of Islands, with the Hole in the Rock, Cape Brett Lighthouse, and island stopover providing unforgettable views.

Duration and Location

The Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Stopover takes place over a 3-hour duration in the picturesque Bay of Islands region of New Zealand.

Located on the northeastern coast of the country, the Bay of Islands boasts a stunning archipelago of 144 islands, which serve as the backdrop for this scenic cruise.

Visitors embark on a small group tour, with a maximum of 49 travelers, to explore the area’s natural wonders.

The cruise includes highlights such as the iconic Hole in the Rock, the Cape Brett Lighthouse, and a stop at either Urupukapuka or Roberton Island, depending on wind conditions.

This immersive experience allows travelers to fully enjoy the beauty of New Zealand’s North Island.

Activities and Features

Beyond the tour’s duration and location, the Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Stopover offers a wealth of engaging activities and captivating features.

Visitors can look forward to cruising amidst the stunning 144 islands of the Bay of Islands, marveling at the iconic Hole in the Rock formation, and exploring the historic Cape Brett Lighthouse.

The experience also includes:

1. Feeding schools of fish at a voluntary marine reserve, providing a unique opportunity to interact with the local marine life.

2. Stopping over at either Urupukapuka or Roberton Island, the location determined by wind direction, for a chance to further immerse in the natural beauty of the region.

3. Enjoying the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.

Marine Reserve and Island Stopover

One of the highlights of the Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Stopover is the opportunity to interact with the local marine life by feeding schools of fish at a voluntary marine reserve along the way. This unique experience allows visitors to get up close and personal with the vibrant underwater ecosystem. Depending on the wind direction, the tour also includes a stopover at either Urupukapuka or Roberton Island, where travelers can explore the stunning natural landscapes and wildlife. Guests are sure to be captivated by the breathtaking scenery and abundance of marine life during this memorable excursion.

Fish Species	Quantity	Feeding Experience
Snapper	Abundant	Interactive and Fun
Kingfish	Frequent	Exciting to Witness
Kahawai	Occasional	Rewarding Encounter
Trevally	Rare	Unique Opportunity

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Food And/Or Refreshments Provided During the Cruise?

The tour overview does not indicate that food and/or refreshments are provided during the cruise. Travelers should plan to bring their own snacks and drinks if desired, as catering is not included in the tour package.

How Long Is the Cruise Duration, Including the Island Stopover?

The cruise duration, including the island stopover, is 3 hours. The tour overview states the duration is 3 hours and includes visiting the Hole in the Rock, Cape Brett Lighthouse, and stopping over at either Urupukapuka or Roberton Island.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. However, there may be light refreshments and snacks available for purchase on board. Guests are advised to check with the tour operator for any specific policies regarding outside food and beverages.

What Should I Bring or Wear for the Tour?

For this scenic cruise, travelers should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. It’s recommended to bring sun protection, a camera, and any necessary medications. Light snacks and drinks are available for purchase on board.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography or Filming During the Tour?

Visitors are generally free to take photos and videos during the tour, though the operator may request that filming is limited in certain sensitive areas to avoid disrupting wildlife. Specific rules will be communicated to guests at the start of the excursion.

Recap

This captivating 3-hour cruise in the Bay of Islands offers an intimate small-group experience, featuring the iconic Hole in the Rock, a scenic island stopover, and an interactive fish feeding experience.

Surrounded by stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure amidst New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes.