Practical, no-nonsense touring options pack the Bay of Islands, a stunning corner of New Zealand’s Northland. Skip the tourist traps and focus on these worthwhile experiences: The full-day yacht charters offer intimate access to hidden coves most visitors never see. Scenic flights to Cape Reinga combine efficiency with breathtaking aerial views – a smart splurge. For food and drink lovers, local wine and craft beer tours showcase authentic Kiwi flavors without the big-bus crowds. Private overnight charters, while pricey, deliver the bay’s magic without rushing. Shore excursions work well for cruise passengers with limited time.
Let’s explore my favorite Bay of Islands tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- Private overnight charters and island excursions offer exclusive and customizable experiences in the scenic Bay of Islands.
- Guided market tours, hands-on cooking classes, and wine/craft beer tastings provide immersive local culinary experiences.
- Scenic flights, yacht tours, and activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding allow for comprehensive exploration of the Bay of Islands.
- Highly rated tours, such as the Bay of Islands Yacht Tour and the Cape Reinga Half-Day Tour, offer exceptional service, scenery, and value.
- Cruise ship passengers can enjoy personalized wine and craft beer tours with scenic drives and charcuterie board lunches.
Local Market Tour and Modern Vegetarian Cooking Experience in Northland
What better way to explore the local culinary scene in the Bay of Islands than with a guided market tour and hands-on vegetarian cooking experience? That’s exactly what this activity offers.
Hosted by Anna, the tour begins at the Kerikeri Saturday or Sunday market, where you’ll discover the region’s fresh produce and specialty items. Then, it’s off to Anna’s home for a modern vegetarian cooking class.
The menu highlights include fresh rice rolls with satay sauce, a nourishing miso lemongrass broth with soba noodles, sushi, and tempura veggies, plus a delectable lemon chia cake with coconut and banana ice cream for dessert.
All dietary needs are accommodated, and the experience is wheelchair accessible.
Priced from £280.51 per person, this tour provides exceptional value, including the market visit, cooking class, home-cooked meal, and gratuities.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the lowest price guarantee, securing your spot is a hassle-free process. Enjoy the flavors of Northland on this must-try culinary adventure.
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Full-Day Bay of Islands Tour by Vigilant Yacht Charters
Departing from the Russell dock at 10:00 AM, the full-day Bay of Islands tour by Vigilant Yacht Charters offers a captivating voyage through the region’s picturesque islands and beaches.
With a maximum of 10 travelers per tour, the experience provides an intimate and personalized journey. Guests can enjoy a range of activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, swimming, and walking, while learning sailing skills with assistance from the knowledgeable crew.
The tour includes a delicious lunch, hot drinks, and snorkeling gear, as well as round-trip transfers to the Port of Russell.
Based on 211 reviews with a 99% traveler recommendation, the tour is praised for its friendly and competent crew, beautiful scenery, and good local knowledge.
While some travelers desired more land time, the overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 suggests an exceptional experience.
Priced from $107.19 per person, the tour is a must-do for those exploring the stunning Bay of Islands.
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Cape Reinga Half-Day Tour Including Scenic Flight
For those seeking a unique perspective of the Bay of Islands, the Cape Reinga Half-Day Tour including a scenic flight offers an unparalleled experience. This half-day tour combines a 2.5-hour guided drive with breathtaking aerial views, allowing travelers to witness the stunning Far North coastline from the sky.
The tour includes a scenic flight from Paihia to Cape Reinga, where visitors can marvel at the meeting of the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean at the iconic lighthouse. They’ll also explore Tapotupotu Bay and the impressive Te Paki Sand Dunes, with the option to try sandboarding.
The return flight offers additional aerial perspectives, including views of Parengarenga Harbour and Great Exhibition Bay.
With a 98% traveler recommendation and an overall rating of 4.9 stars, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting the Bay of Islands. The package includes hotel pickup, guided tours, refreshments, and lunch, making it a convenient and well-rounded experience.
Bookings are available for both morning and afternoon departures.
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Cruise Ship – Bay of Islands Wine & Craft Beer Tour With Lunch
The Cruise Ship – Bay of Islands Wine & Craft Beer Tour with Lunch provides cruise ship passengers a delightful opportunity to explore the renowned wineries and breweries of the picturesque Bay of Islands region.
This small-group tour, limited to 11 travelers, offers a personalized experience with friendly and knowledgeable guides. Participants can expect a scenic drive through the countryside, wine and beer tastings, and a large charcuterie board lunch.
While the tour generally receives positive feedback, some common concerns include issues with audio quality on the bus and confusion over the itinerary. Some guests also felt the wine tasting portions were too small.
The unique winery experiences, beautiful scenery, and recommendations of specific guides like Ken Malarkey have earned this tour an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5.
For wine lovers and cruise ship passengers seeking a fun and memorable outing, the Cruise Ship – Bay of Islands Wine & Craft Beer Tour with Lunch is a recommended option.
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Private Overnight Charter & Island Excursions in Bay of Islands
Travelers seeking a truly immersive and personalized experience in the Bay of Islands can embark on a Private Overnight Charter & Island Excursions tour operated by Love Machine Yacht Charter.
The tour meets at the Kororāreka/Russell Wharf in Russell at 10:00 am and ends back at the same location. Included amenities are the use of paddleboards and snorkeling equipment, as well as coffee, tea, and a provided lunch.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate.
The private nature of the tour ensures that only your group will be in attendance, and confirmation is received at the time of booking.
Explore the stunning landscapes and pristine waters of the Bay of Islands at your own pace on this exclusive charter experience.
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Full Day Private Shore Tour in Auckland From Bay of Islands Port
Ideal for those seeking a comprehensive exploration of Auckland from the Bay of Islands port, this full-day private shore tour provides a personalized experience with a professional local guide.
Travelers will be picked up at the cruise terminal and transported in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle to explore the city’s top attractions. The tour includes an hour of free time for shopping and dining, as well as an extended shopping or sit-down meal.
The price starts at €1,500 per person, and confirmation is received at booking. This private tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available. Most travelers can participate, and the tour route and duration are subject to docking times, traffic, and events.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, and a full refund is provided if the ship can’t dock.
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Popular Cruise Ship Tour* Bay of Islands and Glow Worm Caves Shore Excursion
Boasting 218 reviews with a 4.5/5-star rating, the Bay of Islands and Glow Worm Caves Shore Excursion offers cruise-ship passengers and those short on time a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural wonders.
The tour takes visitors to the Kawiti Glow Worm Caves for a guided experience, Haruru Falls for scenic views, the Manginangina Kauri Walk to see ancient trees, and the Makana Chocolate Factory for tastings.
With a maximum of 35 travelers, the tour is adjustable based on cruise ship docking times. Included in the experience are a driver/guide, port pickup and drop-off, chocolate tastings, local taxes, bottled water, and an air-conditioned vehicle.
While some reviews mention overcrowding in the glow worm caves and a rushed itinerary, travelers appreciated the tour’s organization and flexibility in accommodating cruise ship delays.
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Private Yacht Charter and Island Excursions in the Bay of Islands
While cruise ship tours provide a convenient way to see the highlights of the Bay of Islands, private yacht charters offer a more exclusive and personalized experience. One such option is the private yacht charter and island excursions operated by Love Machine Yacht Charter. This tour includes lunch, coffee/tea, snorkeling equipment, and paddleboards, all within a private setting with only your group participating.
The tour starts at the Kororāreka/Russell Wharf in Russell, New Zealand, at 10:00 am, and ends back at the same location. Guests have the opportunity to hike on islands, snorkel in the brisk waters, and enjoy paddleboarding.
The lunch menu features a ham and mushroom quiche, salad, and rosé wine, which guests have praised for its quality.
Reviews of the tour highlight the fantastic experiences with the crew members, Erin and Bruno, as well as the customized trip and friendly service. With a perfect 5-star rating from 2 reviews, this private yacht charter offers a unique and memorable way to explore the Bay of Islands.
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The Sum Up
The Bay of Islands offers a diverse range of tours for visitors. From local market and cooking experiences to private yacht charters and scenic flights, there’s something to suit every traveler’s interests. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed day on the water or a more immersive cultural experience, the Bay of Islands has a tour that can provide an unforgettable trip.