Bay of Islands Cruise: Scenic Dolphin Adventure

Discover the Bay of Islands on a private tour with a catamaran cruise, dolphin watching, and island exploration. Book your adventure today.

Duration: 12 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Bay of Islands - Enjoy a 4.5-hour guided boat tour.
  • Witness the Hole in the Rock.
  • Visit Urupukapuka Island.
What's Included
  • Private transportation
  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • On-board WiFi
  • Bottled water
  • Lunch
  • Snacks
  • All entry tickets & guided tours
  • In-vehicle air conditioning
  • Professional driver/guide
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

This full-day excursion starts with a convenient pick-up from your Auckland City hotel, followed by a picturesque three-hour drive north through the stunning landscapes of the Far North District.
Upon reaching Paihia, embark on a 4.5-hour guided catamaran cruise to discover the vibrant marine life, including dolphins, and visit the famous Hole in the…

Location
Bay of Islands
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(18 Ratings)
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Ghall10011
Feb 19, 2026
Very long but beautiful day - All day Bay of Islands tour: This is an incredible tour, but be aware of what you’re signing up for - this is a very long day on a mini bus! That being said, our tour guide Simon was absolutely incredible during the drive up and back. He was so knowledgeable on the countryside and the history of the area, and of New Zealand itself, with just the right amount of humor. He’s the main reason this tour gets five stars. The Bay of Islands, of course, was as beautiful as advertised. I recommend this for anyone who wants to get up and see that area in one day and is willing to endure over 12 hours to do so.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Johnfc5294it
Jan 25, 2026
Hole in the Rock - Long but very enjoyable day. Some light showers and wind made for bit bumpy ride on the ferry but there is an enclosed deck for fair weather travelers. Jon our driver was superb. Excellent service dropping all in our group back to our hotels in the evening. Good taste of Bay of the islands wanting a longer stay but great for a day trip!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Y4103fkamandac
Jan 25, 2026
You better hope you get Jon as your driver!! - Jon was our driver today and he was great. Very informative on the drive in regards to Auckland and very friendly!! The boat trip was great, got to see multiple dolphins and see the islands. Such a great day!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Stevewphillips988
Jan 9, 2026
Visit to the Bay of Islands - Nancy was excellent, so knowledgeable and everything was just perfect !! We had an absolutely beautiful day and learned so much about Nee Zealand during our tour. Once we got out on boat, we had a wonderful boat ride. We really enjoyed the islands absolutely beautiful !
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Judithgx1658gd
Dec 6, 2025
A perfect day getting to know more of beautiful New Zealand - At first I was worried that this trip would be too long. However, the long drive to and from Auckland is a beautiful drive. The driver, Nancy, made it a fascinating experience, telling us about history, the people of New Zealand, as well as cultural information of the Māori and current events. She made stops in interesting places and anticipated our every need. The trip on the bay was fabulous! It is beautiful! A pod of dolphins put in an incredible display of acrobatics for more than 30 minutes. It seemed they knew they had an appreciative audience. From our great driver, Nancy, who was friendly, helpful and very knowledgeable, to the exquisite natural beauty of the bay, everything was perfect. I enjoy every minute.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Explore-and-enjoy
Dec 6, 2025
Wonderful trip to Bay of Islands. - Had an amazing time with Nancy! She’s a great storyteller and went the extra mile to make it a wonderful experience! Thank you!1
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Departure26659180615
Nov 16, 2025
Orcas - I had a wonderful trip to the Bay of Islands snd a cruise to the Hole in the Rock. Raymond, our guide was really nice and pacient.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sylviabb4048lp
Nov 11, 2025
Long day; but worth every moment. - It was a long day, but well worth it. Our guide Dave was well informed and knew the area very well. He filled every bit of our day with information and knew exactly when to say ‘look now’ for amazing views.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Dsh80
Oct 26, 2025
Amazing service and experience - Adil was an amazing tour guide. So knowledgeable about the history of NZ and the area. Loved his stories and impromptu stops along the way to see interesting sights. Had great tips for food and the boat. Promptly got us there and back! Highly recommend.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Explorer54747245842
Nov 8, 2025
Bay of Islands - We certainly enjoyed our tour ! John was a great guide and took care of us from start to finish - and a great driver. Would recommend.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $559
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).