Bay of Islands Discovery Experience from Auckland incl. Hole In The Rock Cruise
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Highlighted days have spots open. Grey days are sold out or not running.
September 2026
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Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
Select a highlighted day to see live departure times and the exact price for your group.
Non-refundable booking. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 16 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Bay of Islands Discovery Experience from Auckland incl. Hole In The Rock Cruise worth booking?
Bay of Islands Discovery Experience from Auckland incl. Hole In The Rock Cruise is a 13-hour experience in Auckland, New Zealand, from $627 per person. It scores 58 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 16 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 58 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (16)
- Duration
- 13 hours
- From
- $627 per person
Embark on a voyage of discovery on this unique luxurious private experience from Auckland to enjoy the beauty, discover the scenery, captivating wildlife, and rich history on the Bay of Islands cruise. Get up close to th
What you get
About this experience
Embark on a voyage of discovery on this unique luxurious private experience from Auckland to enjoy the beauty, discover the scenery, captivating wildlife, and rich history on the Bay of Islands cruise. Get up close to the cliffs at Cape Brett and travel through the iconic Hole in the Rock. Spot dolphins, whales, and other marine wildlife, and enjoy a 1.5-hour island stop to swim and walk. You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to must-dos in the Bay of Islands!
What's included
Included
- Opportunity to view marine mammals including dolphins, whales, seals, birdlife and more
- Private transportation
- Complimentary High-Speed Internet on-board the minibus
- Complimentary refreshments and water on board
- Fully guided private return transfers from Auckland
- Discover self-guided bush walks for spectacular views over the Bay of Islands
- Keep a lookout for dolphins, whales, or orcas (at mother nature's discretion)
- Listen to entertaining live commentary from your local Nature Guide
- Luxurious temperature controlled transportation in a minibus
- Discover some of the 144 stunning islands in the Bay of Islands on a scenic cruise
- All Fees and Taxes
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Witness the iconic Hole in the Rock
- Engaging and informative commentary in English
- Journey by boat across the pristine Islands
- Complimentary pick up and drop off from Auckland
- Lunch stops at Otehei Bay
- On-board WiFi
- Marvel at the breath-taking scenery en route
- Admission to 4.5 hours Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise
- A local English-speaking tour escort throughout the tour
- Stop off at Urupukapuka Island and lunch/dinner stop at Otehei Bay
- Enjoy a 1.5-hour island stop-over and walk, swim, paddle board, kayak or relax
Not included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
- Lunch
What you'll see and do
Auckland Central
We pickup travellers from most locations in the Auckland CBD location. If your pickup location is not available on the list, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will do our very best to accommodate your request.
15 minutes here
We stop to get some great coffee at your own expense and a comfort break before we continue our journey into the Northland region.
15 minutes here
Whangarei isite Visitor Information Centre
We stop to get some great coffee at your own expense and a comfort break before we continue our journey into the Northland region.
10 minutes here
We visit one of the main tourist attractions in Kawakawa, the colourful public toilet designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. First visiting New Zealand in the 1970s for an exhibition of his work, he decided to make the country his second home and bought property on the Waikare inlet, east of Kawakawa. In 1998 with the help of the community he transformed the town’s public toilets into a work of art.
15 minutes here
The Bay of Islands is a natural playground offering a huge variety of activities to keep you entertained for days. With scenic landscapes to explore by land, sea or sky, abundant wildlife including the playful dolphins, plenty of rich and colourful history and of course water sport opportunities around every corner. Once a booming, bustling and bawdy seafaring centre, it’s now a peaceful and pristine spot, and offers the perfect base for exploring Northland. You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to must-dos in the Bay of Islands! Embark on a voyage of discovery and enjoy the beauty of this area when you join a daily cruise to hole in the rock, the most popular dolphin watching cruise in the Bay of Islands.
240 minutes here · Admission included
Auckland Central
After an exhilarating fun-filled adventure experience at Paihia, it is now time to head back to Auckland to conclude your evening and drop-off at your hotel in Auckland. We can also drop you at your accommodation in Paihia if you are staying locally in the region.
15 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Auckland
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Before you book
- Cancellation
- All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- ExperienceKart
Know before you go
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for the conditions, walking shoes, Sun protection, jacket/warm layer, & any essential personal items.
- Bring a camera or a phone with camera capability as this is the perfect place to get some great experiences photos.
- You are welcome to bring your own food. There is also hot and cold food available for purchase on board.
- A full commentary is provided by your skipper. A limited number of multi-lingual headsets are available in German, French and Mandarin Chinese.
- A portion of your fare contributes to marine mammal research and conservation.
- You will be able to purchase lunch or dinner, depending upon the sailing time, from the café at Otehei Bay.
- Snacks and drinks are also available for purchase onboard the vessel.
- Easy and good fitness level required.
- Interacting with common and bottlenose dolphins, orca, whales and other marine mammals is subject to DOC regulations.
- Tours are suitable for people of all ages and average fitness. Our scenic walks are short and optional. Please let our guide know at check in if you have any fitness concerns.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 16 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
5 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Organization
3 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Traveler reviews
16 verified traveler reviews for Bay of Islands Discovery Experience from Auckland incl. Hole In The Rock Cruise. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Fantastic Bay of Islands tour day
Fantastic day to the Bay of Islands. Our guide Karthik was super knowledgeable, taught us alot about the history and culture. He was very accomodating, our travels were comfortable, everyone had a wonderful time. Truly one of the best tours we’ve done!
Response from the operator: Kia Ora Kerry, Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback. We’re delighted to hear you had such a fantastic day exploring the Bay of Islands with us. It’s great to know that Karthik helped make the journey so memorable through his knowledge, storytelling, and care throughout the day. We’re especially pleased everyone felt comfortable and well looked after along the way. Hearing that this was one of the best tours you’ve done truly means a lot to our team. We hope to welcome you back again for another unforgettable New Zealand journey. Ngā mihi nui, The ExperienceKart Team
via Tripadvisor
Great!
Kartnik was very informative about New Zealand geography and history. Everything went smoothly and it was an enjoyable day
Response from the operator: Kia Ora David, Thank you for your kind review! We’re delighted to hear you had such an enjoyable day and that Karthik’s insights into New Zealand’s geography and history added to the experience. It’s great to know everything ran smoothly throughout the journey. We truly appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you again for another memorable adventure in Aotearoa. Ngā mihi nui, The ExperienceKart Team
via Tripadvisor
Nice day in the Bay of Islands
We enjoyed this tour. It is quite a long journey to the Bay of Islands but the drive is very scenic. Karthik, our guide, was very informative about New Zealand’s history and geology The boat ride was quite nice We had dinner at one of the islands and had a beautiful view. We would recommend this tour
Response from the operator: Kia Ora Dawn, Thank you for your lovely review! We’re so pleased to hear you enjoyed the journey north, it’s a longer day, but as you experienced, the ever-changing scenery along the way makes it truly special. It’s wonderful to know Karthik’s insights into New Zealand’s history and geology added depth to your experience, and that you were able to relax and enjoy the cruise through the stunning Bay of Islands. Finishing the day with dinner overlooking such beautiful views is always a highlight. We truly appreciate your recommendation and are so glad we could be part of your New Zealand adventure. Ngā mihi nui, The ExperienceKart Team
via Tripadvisor
100 island cruise
Pickup was on time the rides wasn’t boring bcs the driver had so much history and information about all of New Zealand. Everything was organized and seamless. From the pick up to the drop off. We got to see beautiful islands and we went on a ferry and it was breathtaking. I highly recommend the million Island cruise.
Response from the operator: Kia Ora Laurie, Thank you for your fantastic 5-star review! We’re so pleased the journey was engaging and seamless from pickup to drop-off. It’s wonderful to hear you enjoyed the beautiful islands and breathtaking cruise experience. We truly appreciate the recommendation! Ngā mihi nui, The ExperienceKart Team
via Tripadvisor
Lovely all around
Lovely boat, friendly guides along the whole tour. Beautiful views on the way back to the Wharf. The island where they drop you off for lunch is efficient with good food. Wish the art gallery was open while we were there.
Response from the operator: Kia Ora Meg, Thank you so much for your lovely 5-star review! We’re delighted to hear you enjoyed the beautiful cruise, the friendly guides, and those stunning views on the return to the wharf. It’s great to know the island lunch stop was smooth, efficient, and tasty too, it’s such a special part of the day. We’re sorry to hear the art gallery wasn’t open during your visit, but we hope the rest of the experience still made for a memorable and enjoyable adventure. We’d love to welcome you back again for more wonderful moments across Aotearoa! Ngā mihi nui, The ExperienceKart Team
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 13 hours
- Free cancellation
- Non-refundable
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $627 to $1295
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 6
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Why this scores 58
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Bay of Islands Discovery Experience from Auckland incl. Hole In The Rock Cruise: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Auckland.
How much does Bay of Islands Discovery Experience from Auckland incl. Hole In The Rock Cruise cost?
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Prices start at $627 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Auckland usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Bay of Islands Discovery Experience from Auckland incl. Hole In The Rock Cruise take?
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Plan for about 13 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Auckland is not rushed.
Is Bay of Islands Discovery Experience from Auckland incl. Hole In The Rock Cruise worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 58 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 16 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable culture & history in Auckland, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Bay of Islands Discovery Experience from Auckland incl. Hole In The Rock Cruise?
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No. This experience is sold on a non-refundable basis, so only book a date you are confident about. Similar experiences in the city do offer free cancellation if flexibility matters more than price.
Is Bay of Islands Discovery Experience from Auckland incl. Hole In The Rock Cruise suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 13-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Bay of Islands Discovery Experience from Auckland incl. Hole In The Rock Cruise?
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Around 6 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Auckland can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Auckland and add a light layer if any part of the 13-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Bay of Islands Discovery Experience from Auckland incl. Hole In The Rock Cruise start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Auckland within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Auckland?
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On Outty we rank every Auckland experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Guided Day Trip from Auckland incl lunch, Hobbiton Movie Set Small Group Tour with Cheeky Kiwi Travel, Hobbiton & Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour with Lunch from Auckland. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Auckland?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Auckland?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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