Excursion “hole in the rock” cruise tour at Waitangi (Bay Of Islands)

Sail through the famous 'Hole in the Rock' during this scenic, half-day, catamaran excursion to the Bay of Islands.

Bay of Islands, Catamaran Cruise

Depart the pier aboard a chartered catamaran for a picturesque, approximately three-hour cruise along the Bay of Islands. Sit back and relax aboard the vessel, which features comfortable indoor and open-deck seating, and a well-stocked cash bar, whilst observing many of the Bay's 144 islands from close quarters.

Cape Brett Lighthouse, Cathedral Cave Formation, Piercy Island, 'Hole in the Rock'

Sail past the historic Cape Brett Lighthouse, the only historic lighthouse managed by the Department Of Conservation with its internal workings still in place, and pass the famous Cathedral Cave formation nearby.

Your route circles Piercy Island, also known as 'Motukokako Island', at the outermost limits of the Bay of Islands, and sails through the 'Hole in the Rock' (weather-permitting). Perhaps one of the most naturally beautiful sights in all of New Zealand, this 210-foot (about 64-metre) hole at sea level was created over centuries by wind and waves. Be sure to have your camera on hand to capture this awe-inspiring natural wonder.

Seabirds, Dolphins, Penguins

Seabirds and marine life abound in this vicinity; bottlenose and common dolphins are the most frequently encountered marine mammals in the Bay of Islands, and you may see a pod during your journey. You may also see little blue penguins, Australasian gannets, black-winged gulls, red-and-black-beaked gulls, Caspian and white-fronted terns, Buller's, sooty, flesh-footed and fluttering shearwaters, prions, storm petrels and pied shags. On the islands, you are likely to see variable oyster-catchers, dotterels, fantails, pukekos, and tuis. Your panoramic Bay of Islands cruise concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking, with a few steps to negotiate to embark/disembark the boat. This tour is not suitable for guests prone to seasickness, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking or boat shoes, and bring sun protection and a weatherproof coat or jacket from the ship. Although frequently encountered on this type of tour, marine life sightings are not guaranteed. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. If the sea conditions are not favourable or deemed to be too rough, and the boat is unable to go out to the 'Hole in the Rock', an alternative inner-island experience is substituted.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Bay of Islands, Catamaran Cruise, Cape Brett Lighthouse, Cathedral Cave Formation, Piercy Island, 'Hole in the Rock', Seabirds, Dolphins, Penguins