Headout logo. Link to home.
Help
Guided Tours

Bay of Islands Small Group Tour & Cruise from Auckland

Auckland Bay of Islands small group tour boat cruising through scenic waters.
Auckland Bay of Islands small group tour boat cruising through scenic waters.
Auckland Bay of Islands cruise with small group exploring scenic coastline.
Auckland Bay of Islands cruise with small group on scenic tour boat.

Set sail on a picturesque cruise through the Bay of Islands. Explore one of New Zealand’s most popular tourist destinations with a professional guide while learning about the area's history and viewing its wonderful marine life.

Highlights

  • Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Bay of Islands on this professionally guided tour.

  • Marvel at the natural beauty of Whangarei Falls and the picturesque views of the sunny seaside town of Paihia.

  • Cruise past the majestic cliffs and sheltered coves which make up the Bay of Islands.

  • Relax on the pristine beaches of Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island.

  • Spot dolphins, whales, and other wildlife as you explore New Zealand’s most popular tourist destination.

  • Learn about the history and culture of New Zealand with expert guides.

Inclusions

  • Cruise with expert English-speaking guide

  • Small group

  • Bottled water

  • Snacks

Cancellation policy

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

From The City of Sails to Paihia, The Quaint Town

The Bay of Islands Explorer tour begins in Auckland, New Zealand’s “City of Sails”. From the moment you arrive in Auckland, you’ll be surrounded by the famed natural beauty of this country. After a short drive north, you’ll arrive at Whangarei Falls, one of the many beautiful waterfalls in New Zealand. Take in the views and sounds of the falling waterfalls as you stroll along the nature trail.

The gorgeous village of Paihia, with its numerous stores and restaurants, is where you'll go next. Explore this charming coastal town that is brimming with art galleries and coffee shops while your guide buys the cruise tickets.

Sailing Through the Bay of Islands

You'll board a cruise ship in Paihia for a relaxing journey around the Bay of Islands. It's a terrific opportunity to see dolphins, whales, or even both with luck, as well as learn about the area's history and culture. You may also get to see the well-known Hole in the Rock, depending on the weather.

A trip to the Bay of Islands would be incomplete without some beach time on one of the islands. The next stop is Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, where you may swim, walk along the white sand beach, climb the hill for stunning views, or simply relax and recharge at the island's bar and café.

As the trip draws to a close, you will have some free time on the bay. You may opt to rest and take in the view, or you can choose to tour Russell, the country's first capital, or the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where the treaty that founded New Zealand as a nation was signed.

Itinerary

Auckland | Whangarei Falls | Paihia | Bay of Islands Cruise | Hole in the Rock - Cape Brett | Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island | Free Time in the Bay

Important Information

  • It is recommended to wear comfortable clothes and shoes as the tour requires a fair amount of travel.

  • Be sure to apply sunscreen and carry swimwear and sunglasses as you will be spending some time on the beach.

Timings

  • The timings are subject to change. Please check the booking page to see the timings on your intended day of visit.
  • Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

  • Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID during the pick-up.

Pick-Up Points

  • This tour includes pick-up points

  • On the day of your tour, arrive 15-20 minutes before the scheduled time at the pick-up point.

  • In the next step of booking, please select the pick-up location.

Similar experiences you'd love

Auckland Explorer Bus at Viaduct Harbour with city skyline in background.
Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
Explorer Bus: Auckland Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Instant confirmation
4.2
Rated 4.21 out of 5.0 from 179 ratings.
from
NZ$65
Free cancellation
Family taking a selfie in front of a hobbit house with a round door and charming details at Hobbiton Movie Set on a small group tour from Auckland
Guided Tours
Small Group Tour to Hobbiton Movie Set from Auckland
Instant confirmation
New
NZ$275
Free cancellation
Waitomo Caves tour group exploring glowworm-lit caverns, Rotorua geothermal features, Te Puia cultural site.
Guided Tours
From Auckland: Waitomo Caves, Rotorua & Te Puia Guided Tour
Instant confirmation
New
from
NZ$349
Free cancellation
Waitomo Glowworm Caves tour boat with visitors viewing glowworms, departing from Auckland.
Day Trips
From Auckland: Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour
Instant confirmation
4.4
Rated 4.4 out of 5.0 from 10 ratings.
from
NZ$279
Free cancellation
Hobbiton Movie Set with lush greenery and Waitomo Caves entrance, New Zealand tour from Auckland.
Day Trips
From Auckland: Hobbiton Movie Set & Waitomo Caves Guided Tour
Instant confirmation
New
from
NZ$399

Top things to do in Auckland

Browse by themes

World at your tap.

Get the Headout app to get tickets on your phone and access app-only deals. Talk about win-win.
iphone

We've served 32 million+ guests and we are here for you

32 million+

Happy customers across 10,000+ experiences

4.4/5

28,000+ verified reviews with 90% excellent score

In the media

Featured and recommended by the best brands

24 x 7 help center

Have a question? Live chat with local experts anywhere, anytime