Top North Island Day Cruises - page 2

Cruise Auckland's Hauraki Gulf Marine Park on a 4.5-hour eco safari to spot whales, dolphins, seals, and rare seabirds. Enjoy expert commentary and close encounters with diverse marine wildlife in stunning island scenery, departing from downtown Auckland's Viaduct Harbour.

Enjoy views of Auckland you can’t get from land while sailing on a yacht in the Waitemata Harbour. Your Auckland cruise sets sail from the Viaduct Harbour, passing Auckland Harbour Bridge, Westhaven Marina, and Devonport while you listen to informative commentary on the sights. Relax as you take in the views or help the crew sail the vessel—it’s up to you. Provided snacks and hot drinks keep you energized.

Unwind on a relaxing 2-hour sailing cruise through the stunning Bay of Islands. Departing from Paihia Wharf, this small-group experience offers the perfect way to enjoy Northland’s spectacular coastline, fresh sea air, and beautiful island scenery without committing to a full-day tour. Step aboard our spacious catamaran and sail through sheltered bays and scenic island landscapes while enjoying plenty of space to relax and take in the views. With a maximum of just 19 guests onboard, you'll enjoy a more personal and peaceful experience than larger cruise vessels. Your local skipper will share insights about the Bay of Islands as you cruise past historic shorelines, secluded bays, and native wildlife habitats. Keep an eye out for seabirds, dolphins, and other marine life that are often seen in the area.

Sitting majestically off the coast, Rangitoto’s distinctive symmetrical cone rises 260m over the Hauraki Gulf. Boasting a unique landscape of rugged lava crops, lush native bush and sandy coves. This not to be missed walk to the summit takes about an hour at an easy pace. Lookouts along the way provide stunning views as you climb - make sure to leave enough time to detour and explore the lava caves. Plan your visit in advance and ensure you arrive with plenty of time to meet the return ferry to downtown Auckand.

Cruise through bays, hot sand beaches, glowworm caves, and historic Māori sites aboard a one of a kind, handcrafted vessel packed with adventure or relaxation at your pace: twist your feet into the hot sand stream, swim in crystal clear waters, leap from overhanging trees, or wade into glow worm caves to catch their gentle daytime glow, or simply unwind amid scenery so close you can almost touch it. Savor complimentary morning tea as you glide past ancient Māori food storage caves and breathtaking landscapes.

Relax sit back to take in interesting and informative commentary about the harbour, region, local legends and history. The ancient Maori Legend of Mount Maunganui is retold as we cruise past the icons base. See the Statue of Tangaroa as he guards the Harbour entrance & learn of his place in Maori folk law. Cross the entrance of Te Awanui, (Tauranga harbour). Tuck into the picturesque shores of Matakana Island, the third largest island of the north. Continue through Tauranga harbours two inner islands, natural history, and orchards. Through the western channel to Sulphur point, and its relation to our active volcano. Tauranga port and industry working up close, with interesting facts on exports, history and ships.

Cruising is the best way to see the sub-tropical Bay of Islands. Do this in style aboard the Phantom, a live-aboard private yacht. Your hosts are an enthusiastic sailing family who have traveled the world in their yacht. Sit back and relax on board the Phantom while enjoying views of the islands and bay, with possible dolphin sightings and the chance to snorkel.

Scenic Cruise among 144 sub-tropical islands and discover the Bay of Islands on a small group tour. Visit the landing site of Captain James Cook, and stopover on Roberton island for a short walk to the lookout point over the Twin Lagoons. Keep an eye out for wildlife in the Marine Mammal sanctuary, and listen to live commentary and information provided by your local crew on board. Cruising along the Cape Brett Peninsula and to the famous HOLE IN THE ROCK, Cathedral Cave and Cape Brett Lighthouse Stopover on a second island for a chance to explore the nature trails, take a swim, snorkel, relax and enjoy a beachside picnic lunch before cruising back through the outer islands to finish in Paihia/Russell

Visit the Hobbiton Movie Set on a full-day tour from Auckland that explores New Zealand's "Middle-earth," where "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" films came to life. Travel through a landscape of lush farms, then take a guided tour of the 12-acre (4.8-ha) Hobbiton Movie Set, from hobbit holes to gardens and the Green Dragon Inn. With free time to shop and explore, this tour includes transportation from selected locations in Auckland for your convenience.

Enjoy the exclusive use of the luxury sailing catamaran, Serenity. Sit back and take in the sights, or if you want to get involved, take a turn at the wheel under the guidance of your professional captain or assist in hoisting the sails. The captain will select a suitable place to drop anchor and allow you to explore the coast via paddleboard, the beach by foot, hike the scenic island trails, swim or snorkel a lagoon, or simply lounge and relax on the spacious decks. The choice is yours to customize the day as you wish. Serenity comfortably accommodates up to 20 guests. Her spacious interior and enclosed cockpit allow ample space for all, even if a rain shower passes over. Pickup and drop-offs at your coastal luxury lodge or accommodation provider can be arranged.

Cruise through the beautiful Waitemata Harbour to the historic Riverhead Tavern, one of New Zealand's oldest riverside taverns. This 5.5-hour journey includes a 1.5-hour round-trip ferry ride from Westhaven Marina, with stunning views of Auckland's landmarks. Enjoy 2.5 hours at the tavern for dining, where you can indulge in a diverse menu featuring local wines and hearty meals. The cruise also offers informative commentary, making it a perfect escape for families or groups looking to experience Auckland's rich maritime history and enjoy a delightful meal by the water. - 5.5-hour cruise with 1.5 hours of stunning views each way - Enjoy 2.5 hours of dining at the historic Riverhead Tavern - Onboard bar service with a range of snacks and beverages - Commentary provided throughout for an engaging experience All cruises are subject to weather and sea conditions. For your safety and comfort, itineraries may be adjusted if required.

Spend the day cruising the clear blue waters of the Bay of Islands, hopping from beach to beach – or spend it snorkelling around local reefs and shipwrecks – or spend it hiking through the pristine native bush on a handful of the Bay’s 140-plus islands. On this private charter in the Bay of Islands, do what you to do. Instead of sticking to a tour operator’s preset schedule, tailor your half- or full-day itinerary in the Bay to your own tastes.

Our full-day private tour offers a personal and flexible way to discover the Bay of Islands. Departing from Auckland, enjoy a scenic drive through Northland’s rolling hills before arriving in Paihia, where your journey begins. Step aboard a purpose-built catamaran for a 4.5-hour cruise designed for comfort and wildlife encounters. Look out for dolphins and other marine wildlife as you explore secluded coves, sandy beaches, and the islands that make this region special. You’ll also visit the iconic Hole in the Rock and Cape Brett cliffs, conditions permitting, guided by local skippers who bring you close to the action. Your experience includes an unhurried stop at Urupukapuka Island, with time to relax on the beach, enjoy a picnic, or hike to panoramic viewpoints. To finish, return to Auckland along scenic backroads, taking in more of the Far North’s beauty. More than a tour, this is a relaxed private journey designed around you.