Top North Island Water Tours - page 2

Enjoy an America’s Cup sailing experience aboard an authentic racing yacht on Auckland's scenic Waitemata Harbour. Feel the exhilaration of yachting as you take the helm and participate with the professional crew, or just sit back and soak up the harbor views. No sailing experience is necessary and this is a fun activity for keen sailors and complete beginners alike. Wet-weather jackets and sunscreen keep you comfortable.

Ocean Adventure is the fastest boat to the Hole in the Rock, combining exhilaration and exploration with a balance of speed and thrills, as well as stops to view wildlife, learn about the Bay of Islands & take photos. Great for families & adventure seekers to feel the thrill of speeding across the water & viewing the stunning islands of the Bay Relax in state of the art suspension seating for a safe & comfortable ride as you fast track your journey through the iconic scenery of the Bay of Islands. Not suitable for guests over 120kg in weight due to the hydraulic seating. Jump on board for a 1.5 hour cruise, visiting the Cape Brett Peninsula & travel through the iconic Hole in the Rock on Motukōkako, conditions permitting. Enter the amazing Cathedral Cove if conditions permit & hear entertaining commentary about the Bay of Islands with stops for photos. Option to stop at Otehei Bay, Urupukapuka Island (must be pre-booked) and return on a later ferry at no extra cost.

Cruise the scenic bays of Lake Taupō to the Māori Rock Carvings during this boat tour. Listen to informative commentary about the ecology, volcanology, and cultural history of the area. Admire the impressive views of the snowy volcanoes of UNESCO World Heritage–listed Tongariro National Park. See the Māori Rock Carvings depicting the legends of the local Ngāti Tūwharetoa tribe. Choose from morning or afternoon departures to suit your schedule.

Explore the underwater world of the Goat Island Marine Reserve without getting wet when you join a glass-bottomed boat tour. Learn more about New Zealand’s first marine reserve and the wonderful biodiversity around the island. Sail into dramatic caves and admire views of other offshore islands, such as Little Barrier Island. The Goat Island and Matakana areas are an easy half-day trip north of Auckland city.

Witness Wellington from a perspective that most travelers miss with this harbour cruise experience. Hop aboard a fully electric passenger ferry and relax as you listen to tales of the city’s rich history, keeping an eye out for local cultural and ecological landmarks as the boat navigates Wellington Harbour (Te Whanganui-a-Tara).

Discover Rotorua from a different angle on a fun “duck” tour. This sightseeing adventure takes you aboard an authentic World War II-era amphibious vehicle, able to travel on land and water. Start with a city tour before splashing down into a couple of Rotorua’s many scenic lakes. Listen to live commentary about Rotorua’s history and local landmarks along the way. A family-friendly tour that everyone will enjoy.

Experience Auckland's stunning skyline and iconic landmarks from the water on a 1.5-hour scenic cruise with The Red Boats. Glide across the picturesque Waitemata Harbour on one of or iconic wooden vessels while enjoying informative commentary about the area's history and highlights. With comfortable indoor and outdoor seating, this cruise is ideal for taking photos or simply relaxing amidst breathtaking views. A fully licensed bar is available on board for drinks and snacks, making it perfect for families, tourists, and group outings. All cruises are subject to weather and sea conditions. For your safety and comfort, itineraries may be adjusted if required.

Swap Taupō’s bars and restaurants for an alternative evening activity: a leisurely sail aboard an electric yacht to the Mine Bay Māori rock carvings. These traditionally inspired modern carvings, dating from the 1970s, are a must-visit attraction in Taupō. With this handy cruise, you don’t need your own boat to reach them. Bring a picnic and your bathing suit, as swimming is encouraged in fine weather. Complimentary drinks are provided.

Relax during a chilled out half-day private sailing tour along the coast, setting sail from Cooks Beach in the Coromandel. Swim or snorkel at the marine reserve, where you can see colorful fish. Anchor at Cathedral Cove for a while to enjoy views of the cliffs and rocky outcrops. Lounge on the onboard bean bags with some smoked seafood and a cold beer or wine.

Hop on a free shuttle bus and explore the natural wonders of Waimangu Volcanic Valley at your own pace on this self-guided tour. Combine the experience with a chance to get up close to Lake Rotomahana’s towering geysers and steaming cliffs with a boat cruise across waters infused with geothermal energy.

Experience Auckland’s spectacular golden hour on a relaxing Sunset Harbour Cruise across the sparkling Waitematā Harbour. Departing from Westhaven Marina, cruise beneath the iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge and enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline, Sky Tower, Rangitoto Island and Devonport as day turns to night. Relax on spacious indoor and outdoor viewing decks while your local crew shares engaging live commentary about Auckland’s harbour and history. Visit the fully licensed onboard bar for drinks and light snacks, then sit back and enjoy one of Auckland’s most memorable and photogenic harbour experiences.

Sail away on a harbor cruise in Auckland and enjoy a 3-course dinner as you sail past Waitemata Harbour highlights, including the Sky Tower and Auckland Harbour Bridge. Board your yacht at the Viaduct Harbour and enjoy a welcome drink. Learn about Auckland and its scenic sights from your captain. As evening falls, dinner is served onboard while you sail.

Experience the magic of the Bay of Plenty on this evening glow-worm kayak tour of Tauranga’s Lake McLaren. Avoid getting lost as day turns to night by kayaking with a guide. Marvel at the bright green glow worms clinging to the towering cliffs and gain insight into the life cycle of these fascinating creatures.

Visit two of New Zealand's must-see attractions on this combo tour from Auckland to the Hobbiton™ Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Peek into Hobbit holes, frolic in the Shire, and get a drink at the Green Dragon Inn on a guided tour of Middle-earth, followed by a café lunch. In the afternoon, explore Māori myths and history on an underground boat ride at Waitomo, surrounded by thousands of glowworms.

Explore the Rotorua lakes district and learn about its history on a 2-hour tour duck boat cruise from Rotorua. Travel on land and by water in the amphibious World War II vehicle, visiting four lakes including Lake Tarawera, located at the foot of Mt Tarawera. Hear about the devastating 1886 eruption of Mt Tarawera and other aspects of local history on this family-friendly tour.

Explore subtropical islands, Maori heritage sites and golden beaches on this cruise around the Bay of Islands from Paihia. Soak up the scenery as you float between the bay’s 144 islands and sail straight through the iconic Hole in the Rock (weather permitting). Along the way, spot dolphins swimming and playing alongside the boat.

Set sail on the MV Ocean Spirit for a day of fishing on Auckland's stunning Waitemata Harbour. Ideal for individuals or small groups, these public fishing trips accommodate up to 18 passengers, ensuring a comfortable experience. With over 10 years of charter fishing expertise, the skilled crew utilizes state-of-the-art fish-finding technology to enhance your catch. Bring your own rods and bait, and enjoy a day of camaraderie and fishing in one of New Zealand's most picturesque locations. All cruises are subject to weather and sea conditions. For your safety and comfort, itineraries may be adjusted if required.

The vibrant blue-green waters of Tauranga Harbour are home to some of the area’s most popular sights. Relax aboard a two-deck boat on this boat cruise as you explore the harbor, taking in ocean views and the area’s beaches, forests, islands, and village settlements, contrasted by scenes of the Grand Kaimai mountain range and Mount Maunganui in the distance.

If you’re a nature lover, the island sanctuary of Tiritiri Matangi offers the chance to spot rare native wildlife that are tricky to see anywhere else in the region. Hop aboard the ferry in Auckland and explore the island’s walking trails and beaches, keeping an eye out for tuatara reptiles, and rare birds such as the kokako, takahe, and tieke.

Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the coast of Cathedral Cove in a comfortable boat with plenty of shade—ideal on a hot summer’s day. Learn about the biodiversity of the marine reserve from your guide while admiring the caves, cliffs, arches, and rock formations. Depart from Whitianga Wharf in the morning or afternoon. This tour does not include snorkeling.

Spend a day relaxing during this catamaran sailing trip, complete with an island stop and packed lunch. Sail aboard a spacious 40-foot (12-meter) catamaran in the Bay of Islands. Enjoy the scenery as you glide through the waters. Anchor at a secluded bay at an island accessible only by boat. Choose to stroll the island, swim, try stand-up paddle boarding, or snorkel. Relish a delicious catered packed lunch on beanbags upfront before cruising back to Paihia.

Experience Auckland after dark on a relaxing 2-hour Night Lights Harbour Cruise across the sparkling Waitematā Harbour. Departing from Z Pier at Westhaven Marina, cruise beneath the illuminated Auckland Harbour Bridge and enjoy spectacular views of the Sky Tower, Viaduct Harbour and the city’s glittering waterfront. Your experience includes a complimentary welcome drink and delicious canapés as you unwind with carefully selected background music in a relaxed atmosphere. With spacious indoor and outdoor seating plus a fully licensed onboard bar, it’s the perfect evening for couples, friends, families and visitors looking to experience Auckland from the water. Capture unforgettable photos of the city lights reflecting across the harbour and discover why Auckland is known as the “City of Sails” on this unique nighttime cruise.

Step into Peter Jackson's Middle-earth with this guided group tour of the Hobbiton™ Movie Set from 'The Lord of the Rings' film trilogy. Learn more about the movies than you ever would by exploring by yourself with the help of your local guide. And with a shuttle service at your disposal, you enjoy a truly seamless Matamata experience.

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.