a one day tour. Swim with dolphins,
cruise amongst the 144 islands and learn more about the area regarded as the 'birthplace of the nation'.
Explore Holidays offers two opportunities to get to the Bay of Islands if you are on a tight time schedule.
Tour Option 1: Scenic Bay of Islands
Flight North and Your Choice of Cruise
Take the express van from downtown Auckland , 20 mins to the North Shore Airfield where your plane awaits. Fly up the centre of the upper North Island for 50 minutes while enjoying the spectacular views. You will spot the stunning beaches of the East coast and the scattered inlets and peninsulas of the West coast, as well as the dramatic Kaipara Harbour, before landing in Kerikeri. Transfer to Paihia and continue with your chosen cruise.
You choose from:
Dolphin Discoveries ‘Hole in the Rock’ cruise
Visit Cape Brett and cruise through the iconic ‘Hole in the Rock’ (conditions permitting). Learn about the rich history and culture in the Bay View wildlife such as dolphins, whales and a variety of birdlife.
Dolphin Discoveries ‘Swim with the Dolphins’ cruise
With the warmest water in New Zealand and the friendliest dolphin species (Bottlenose), the Bay of Islands is the best place to experience swimming with dolphins (conditions permitting). Learn about these wonderful creatures and their habits. Swim alongside dolphins in their world. Wetsuits, snorkels, masks and fins are provided.
Sail NZ ‘On the Edge’ day sail
Experience the exhilarating ride on New Zealand’s fastest commercial sailing catamaran. Island stopover with activities such as snorkelling, swimming, nature walks, sunbathing and kayaking. BBQ lunch and fully licensed bar onboard. Ample shelter from the weather.
Please bring swimming gear and sunscreen.
Departs: daily 6:40am from downtown Auckland, returns 6:30pm (approx).
Tour Option 2: A Taste of The Bay
‘Hole in the Rock’ or ‘Swim with the Dolphins’ cruise.
Head north over Auckland’s Harbour Bridge and enjoy the fully commentated, scenic drive before arriving in the idyllic Bay of Islands.
You choose from:
Dolphin Discoveries ‘Hole in the Rock’ cruise
Visit Cape Brett and cruise through the iconic ‘Hole in the Rock’ (conditions permitting). Learn about the rich history and culture in the Bay. View wildlife such as dolphins, whales and a variety of birdlife.
Dolphin Discoveries ‘Swim with the Dolphins’ cruise
With the warmest water in New Zealand and the friendliest dolphin species (Bottlenose), the Bay of Islands is the best place to experience swimming with dolphins (conditions permitting). Learn about these wonderful creatures and their habits. Swim alongside dolphins in their world. Wetsuits, snorkels, masks and fins are provided.
Those opting for the ‘Swim with the Dolphins’ cruise check in whilst ‘Hole in the Rock’ passengers proceed to the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds for a guided tour, before checking in for their cruise.
Departs: daily 7:30am from downtown Auckland, arrives back 8pm (approx).
Location: Booking Kiosk, Viaduct Harbour, Auckland
Telephone: +64 9 359 5987
