Top 4 Paihia Boat Tours

1.Paihia/Russell: Hole in the Rock Cruise with 2 Island Stops

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 1,002 reviews · 4h 30m · from $90Our pick

Spend 4.5 hours with a small local crew cruising from Paihia or Russell through the Bay of Islands. Captain Blair, Hamish, or Zac may provide the commentary, with island walks, Twin Lagoons, snorkeling gear, wildlife sightings, and a weather-dependent passage through the Hole in the Rock.

“Such a beautiful experience — a stunning place with friendly staff. You get to enjoy a lovely walk on a beautiful island and swim at another. We were very lucky to see dolphins and orcas during the cruise. A must-do if you’re staying in the Bay of Islands!”

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2.Paihia/Russell: Hole in the Rock, Dolphins & Island Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 821 reviews · 4h 30m · from $95

Join Explore Group New Zealand from Paihia or Russell for a 270-minute catamaran cruise among 144 islands. Hear live English commentary, look for dolphins and whales, pass Cape Brett, attempt the Hole in the Rock, then swim or walk at Otehei Bay. Food and drinks cost extra.

“Captain and staff were very knowledgeable and helpful. No question asked was not answered. Only disappointing part was no dolphins or whales were spotted, but that can't be helped. We thoroughly enjoyed our cruise”

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3.Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour – with two island stopovers

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 701 reviews · from $104Top rated

Join Island Getaway Tours from Paihia for a small-group cruise through the Bay of Islands. Expect local stories, wildlife spotting, two island stops, swimming, snorkelling, and a chance to pass through the Hole in the Rock with captains such as Hamish, Nick, or Blair.

“What an incredible tour! The captain/guide and his crew were phenomenal. We learned a lot and the weather was spectacular so we were able to go through the hole. We also had two island stops that allowed for short hikes, opening tRead more”

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4.The Rock Adventure Overnight Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 457 reviews · from $296

Spend 22 hours aboard The Rock in the Bay of Islands, with shared-cabin accommodation, meals, night kayaking, fishing, snorkeling, SUP boarding, target shooting, and island walks. Crew members such as Erin, Byron, Finn, and Jonny help keep the trip active, friendly, and easy to join.

“Fun trip all the way - night kayaking, morning snorkel, island walk, fishing and a friendly, fun crew who were enthusiastic and helpful. Food was great and the toilets and showers worked well. Overall it was a great night out on the boat with thRead more”

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