Bay of Islands Small Group Tour from Auckland - Full Day

Uncover the magnificence of the Bay of Islands on a full-day, small-group tour departing from Auckland, inclusive of a scenic cruise through some of the region's 144 pristine islands. Journey across crystal‑clear waters while listening to engaging live commentary from a knowledgeable local guide. Marvel at breathtaking coastal scenery along the way, including the famous Hole in the Rock, which you'll get to journey through. Along the way, keep a keen eye out for marine life such as dolphins, whales, seals, seabirds, and, on rare occasions, orcas.

Relax at Urupukapuka Island with time to explore, with self‑guided bush walks offering spectacular views over the Bay of Islands. Spend up to an hour and thirty minutes swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply unwinding on the beach. The cruise also includes a stop at Otehei Bay, where you can enjoy a meal (at your own expense) while soaking up the coastal island atmosphere. With stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and time to explore at your own pace, this experience captures the very best of the Bay of Islands.

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Inclusions

• Full-day Bay of Islands tour
• Four-hour and 30-minute Hole in the Rock scenic boat cruise
• Skipper commentary
• One hour and 30-minute island stopover
• Lunch or dinner stop at Otehei Bay (meal not included)
• Return transfers from Auckland
• Refreshments and water onboard
• Minibus transport with high-speed internet
• English-speaking tour guide

Exclusions

• Meals and beverages
• Tips and personal expenses

Time

• Please make sure you are present at the pickup location 10 minutes prior to your scheduled pickup time.

Duration

• This is a full-day experience, approximately 12 hours in duration
• Scenic boat cruise is four hours and 30 minutes in duration

Departure Location

• This experience includes hotel pick up from selected destinations, or you may meet at the central meeting location, Mövenpick Hotel Auckland, 8 Customs Street East, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010.

Hotel Pickup

• 8.30am: Cordis Auckland, Mercure Auckland, Kiwi International, VR Queen Street Hotel and Suites and Pullman Auckland
• 8.35am: Four Points by Sheraton Auckland, Grand Millennium Auckland, VR Auckland City Hobson Street and Crowne Plaza Auckland
• 8.40am: SkyCity Hotel, The Grand by SkyCity, Heritage Auckland and Rydges Auckland
• 8.45am: JW Marriott, Voco Auckland City Centre, Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre and Ibis Budget Auckland City Centre
• 8.50am: Mövenpick Hotel, Nesuto Stadium Hotel and Apartments and Adina Apartment Hotel
• 8.55am: M Social and Hilton Auckland
• 9.00am: Sofitel Auckland, Park Hyatt and Swiss Bel-Suites Victoria Park

What To Bring

• Comfortable clothing suitable for the condition
• Warm layers (recommended)
• Closed-toe footwear with a good grip
• Sunscreen, sunglasses and sun hat
• Additional coat in cooler months
• Camera/GoPro
• A light rain jacket (optional)
• Essential personal items

Terms And Conditions

• Bookings are subject to availability
• Children under eight years must travel in a child car seat
• Car seats can be rented for $50 per child, with 24 hours' notice
• Booster seats are recommended for children aged five to seven
• A limited number of multi-lingual headsets are available in German, French and Mandarin Chinese onboard the scenic cruise
• Meals are not included, but participants can purchase food from the café at Otehei Bay
• Snacks and drinks are also available for purchase on board the vessel
• The site is wheelchair accessible, but please be prepared for uneven surfaces, which may be difficult for those with limited mobility and wheelchair users
• This experience requires a minimum number of travellers; if not met, you’ll be offered a different date, experience or a full refund
• This experience includes collection from select Auckland CBD hotels; if your hotel is not listed, please select the nearest alternative pickup location
• A portion of the fare contributes to marine mammal research and conservation
• Interacting with common and bottlenose dolphins, orca, whales and other marine mammals is subject to DOC regulations

Cancellation Policy

• Change your booking up to 24 hours before the start time of your experience 
• Changes are not permitted within 24 hours of your experience 
• Late arrivals or no shows may result in you forfeiting your experience 
• If your preferred date or time is unavailable and you choose to cancel, a cancellation fee will apply

Booking Information

• Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking
• Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of the experience
• Mobile Vouchers are accepted! - Vouchers can also be presented on your mobile device for this attraction
• Availability was accurate at the time of booking however, is subject to change due to circumstances out of our control
• For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher
• We strongly suggest reconfirming your booking with the tour operator within 24 hours of making your booking and prior to making other travel arrangements