BAY OF ISLANDS BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
A Day to the Hole in the Rock: A Full‑day Run from Auckland into the Bay of Islands
A 12‑hour full‑day outing from Auckland that pairs a three‑hour scenic drive with a four‑hour guided cruise on the catamaran Dolphin Seeker, offering beach time on Urupukapuka Island and a passage to the famous Hole in the Rock.
A Day to the Hole in the Rock: A Full‑day Run from Auckland into the Bay of Islands.
This full‑day Bay of Islands tour departs Auckland CBD and pushes north through the Far North, trading city streets for island‑dotted bluewater. The itinerary combines a long scenic drive with a four‑hour guided cruise aboard the Dolphin Seeker to search for dolphins and other marine life, a stopover to relax or climb on Urupukapuka Island, and a run to Motukokako — the Hole in the Rock — at the tip of the Cape Brett Peninsula.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Dolphins and a Marine Search
The cruise aboard the Dolphin Seeker is centered on finding dolphins and other marine life, turning several hours at sea into a focused wildlife search under an experienced guide.
Hole in the Rock and Cape Brett
The boat runs out to Motukokako — the Hole in the Rock — sailing to the end of the Cape Brett Peninsula and attempting a passage through the hole when tides permit.
Urupukapuka Island Stopover
A planned stop on Urupukapuka Island gives time to relax on the beach or hike to the island summit for panoramic, 360° views of the surrounding islands and coastline.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
The day unfolds as a long coastal transit bookended by concentrated sea time: a scenic drive north from Auckland, arrival in Paihia to board the catamaran, a four‑hour guided cruise searching for wildlife with a beach stop on Urupukapuka, and an outward run toward the Hole in the Rock before the return drive to Auckland.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits—and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The operator’s materials do not list specific gear requirements for the tour.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Bay of Islands Tour?
The tour is a full‑day outing lasting 12 hours.
Where does the tour start?
The tour starts with pickup in Auckland CBD.
How much time is spent on the boat?
You board for a four‑hour guided cruise aboard the catamaran Dolphin Seeker.
Will we visit the Hole in the Rock?
The itinerary attempts a visit to the Hole in the Rock at Motukokako, but passage is subject to tide conditions.
Is Whangarei Falls included on the tour?
No — the itinerary does not include Whangarei Falls.