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Paihia Dolphin & whale watching

Our most recommended Paihia Dolphin & whale watching

From Paihia or Russell: Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise

1. From Paihia or Russell: Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise

Embark on a catamaran tour of the Bay of Islands from Paihia or Russell. Enjoy insightful commentary as you visit famous sights, including the "Hole in the Rock" and make a stop at Urupukapuka Island. Board your vessel in Paihia or Russell and glide out through the islands. Cruise along the Rakaumangamanga Peninsula to Cape Brett, where a historic lighthouse watches over the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’.  The natural sculpture, one of New Zealand's most popular attractions, was created from centuries of sea and wind erosion. According to Maori legend, local warriors paddled through the Hole in the Rock in their canoes before departing for battle. Drops of water from the cave roof were a good omen. Take in the Grand Cathedral Cave before heading back into the bay. Keep an eye out for common and bottlenose dolphins, whales, and other marine life.  Cruise in comfort aboard the Dolphin Seeker with indoor and outdoor seating and the Bay of Island's largest outdoor viewing decks. Treat yourself to snacks and a licensed bar on board, or enjoy the Otehei Bar Café and Bar on Urupukapuka Island.

From Paihia: Hole in the Rock Cruise with Island Stop

2. From Paihia: Hole in the Rock Cruise with Island Stop

Travel among the 144 remote islands of New Zealand's renowned Bay of Islands. Enjoy a guided boat tour departing from Paihia and discover some of the most unique sights of this natural destination. Admire the stunning Hole in the Rock and stop to explore one of the islands. Set sail and surround yourself with the imposing rocky scenery of the Bay of Islands. Keep an eye out for a variety of marine wildlife as you cruise along the coastline. Listen to interesting commentary from your tour guide as they relay the history of the area. Visit the original landing site of Captain James Cook on Roberton Island. Experience Cathedral Cave on Motukokako Island and the famous Hole in the Rock. If weather permits, you'll even sail through it. Up next, take in the awe-striking Cape Brett Peninsula and its lighthouse. Stop at one of the islands along the way. Take a short walk toward a lookout point and help feed the schools of fish in the Voluntary Marine Reserve.

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What people are saying about Paihia

Overall rating

4.3 / 5

based on 21 reviews

I had been to Hole in the Rock 3 times, but this time, the boat did not enter the Hole because of wavy water, but linger longer when dolphins appeared and played with the boat and made a show for the passengers.

The tour was great. However, due to the weather conditions, we were not at the hole in the rock, but we were able to watch dolphins. We also had a 1 hour layover on one of the islands.

It was a beautiful trip out with lots of info shared with us. The stop on the island gave a chance to see 360 degrees around for breathtaking views. Just watch for the sheep dung!!

Great cruise that got through the hole as well as seeing dolphins. The stop at the island was a good break to the cruise.

Well organised. Good communication. Safety was a priority.