The 6 Best Bay of Islands Cruises

1.Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sailing on R. Tucker Thompson Including BBQ Lunch

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 361 reviews · from $111Our pick

Spend 5.5 hours aboard the R. Tucker Thompson, a working tall ship sailing from Russell through the Bay of Islands. Help raise sails, steer, climb the rigging, swim from the ship, visit an island, and enjoy scones, tea, and a chicken BBQ lunch. Paihia ferry transport is included when selected.

“Wonderful day out, sun, sea and sand. Dip in the water. Fabulous weather. Food was yummy. Staff were really attentive. They looked after everyone and we’re “down” with the kids!”

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2.Bay of Islands Glow Worm Caves & Scenic Shore Excursion

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 317 reviews · from $139

Travel from Waitangi Wharf or your hotel with guides such as Dyson, Rob, or Gareth to Haruru Falls, Makana Chocolate Boutique, Kawiti Glow Worm Caves, and the Manginangina Kauri Walk. Expect a compact, informative day with bottled water, live commentary, and a careful return to port.

“We have done many shore excursions and were somewhat disappointed in this tour. While the logistics of being picked up and returned were fine, our guide did not really engage with us like guides in the past (and especially compared to ouRead more”

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3.Bay of Islands: 12,000ft Skydive

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 253 reviews · from $93Best value

You’ll tandem skydive from 12,000 feet above the Bay of Islands with an experienced instructor, enjoying about 40 seconds of freefall and wide views of 144 islands, turquoise water, Paihia, and Kerikeri. Pickup is available in selected central locations, and photos and video cost extra.

“This is the most efficient, well run place I have ever seen. It’s a tight ship and they know what they’re doing. Of course I had a great time; I was skydiving.”

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4.Full-Day Bay of Islands Tour by Vigilant Yacht Charters

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 219 reviews · from $114

Join Nat, Nathalie, Nick, Dallas, or Anita aboard Vigilant for a 5.5-hour sailing trip from Russell. Help with the sails, stop at an island for swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, or a walk, then enjoy lunch, hot drinks, and the chance to spot dolphins or other marine life.

“We enjoyed a lovely day aboard Vigilant. The captain and her first mate were knowledgeable sailors and made the day quite enjoyable. They made us feel welcome and shared their knowledge and history of the area. We spent 1.5 hours on an island that allowed us to hike, swim, and kayak followed by a freshly made lunch and a leisurely sail. The weather was perfect and we enjoyed our time getting to know the captain, first mate and our fellow passengers. We highly recommend this tour.”

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5.Phantom Sailing Bay of Islands

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 177 reviews · from $121

Join sailing hosts Rick and Robin aboard the Phantom for about five and a half hours around New Zealand’s Bay of Islands. With no more than 10 people aboard, you’ll enjoy an island walk, swimming, snorkeling, homemade lunch, local stories, and a possible dolphin sighting.

“Wow! What an absolutely wonderful day we had sailing with Rick & Robin. We sailed through many incredible places, and the knowledge and experience that was shared was second to none. Everything was just amazing! The lunch also was beautiful, all home made and delicious. Highly recommend you go with this company above others. Even my aged parents, with Dad over 80 felt safe and comfortable. Sailing with Rick & Robin is a day our family will never ever forget!”

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6.Private Charter Bay of Islands

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 13 reviews

Join Nathalie and Dallas aboard the 42-foot Vigilant for a private Bay of Islands charter from Russell. You choose the pace, from a relaxed sail and picnic lunch to an island walk, snorkeling, kayaking, or time on a private beach. The charter suits up to 10 people and lasts about 5½ hours.

“Nathalie and Dallas were great hosts to a perfect day! We motored to an island that allowed us to take a great hike to the front side where we snorkeled and enjoyed our own private beach. When we returned to the boat we enjoyed a greaRead more”

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