New Zealand: The Bay of Islands
4 days
From $ 370
Duration4 days

Nature lovers who leave the North Island without stopping off at the Bay of Islands will kick themselves all the way back home (and that’s a looong flight). This four-day trip to this outdoorsman’s paradise features ample time hiking the nature trails and makes the most of all that water with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, and sailing. Not enough? A night aboard a houseboat should do the trick. We take care of all the fuss. All you have to do is have the time of your life.

This tour is operated by

  • Duration: 4 days
    Service level: Basic
  • Physical Grading: Average
  • Ages: 18+
New Zealand–The Bay of Islands - Tour Map

Itinerary

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Day 1: Auckland
Arrive in Auckland at any time. There are no planned activities during the day, so check into the hotel and explore the city. Visit the Maritime Museum, walk the waterfront, or even take the ferry to Waiheke Island.
Arrive at any time. Jump right into your adventure by adding the 'Auckland Sailing: America's Cup Experience' extra to your tour. Work with a crew to sail around Auckland's Waitemata Harbour on a competitive yacht, and take in the stunning views. PLEASE NOTE: If booking this extra, a pre-night in Auckland is highly recommended as this activity may start early in the morning on Day 1.

This tour departs Auckland early on Day 2. If you are interested in exploring the city and its nearby attractions, like a local winery, it is recommended you book additional pre-trip accommodation nights.
Day 2: Auckland/Bay of Islands
Depart early and travel to a local reserve with giant kauri trees. Native to New Zealand, these trees are some of the largest in the world. Learn about their importance to European settlement in New Zealand. Head to the Goat Island Marine Reserve for an included activity of snorkelling to see abundant sea life (seasonal).

Continue on to the Bay of Islands and board a houseboat – your home for the night. While on board, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins that may be frolicking nearby!
Travel north via backroads, stopping to see giant kauri trees, and go for an included snorkel at Goat Island Marine Reserve (seasonal). Board a large houseboat for an overnight trip through the beautiful Bay of Islands. Please note: during the winter months (late April - early November) Goat Island snorkelling will be cancelled due to an earlier departure time for the houseboat. As a result, there will be more time for activities on board the houseboat. Breakfast box Beefsteak and salad buffet

End place: Oneroa Bay

Meals: B, D
Day 3: Bay of Islands/Paihia

Start place: Oneroa Bay

Enjoy a morning of activities from our boat base. Then travel back to the mainland for a walk around the small town of Paihia. An optional visit to the Treaty House in the nearby town of Waitangi is highly recommended.
Enjoy free time in the morning on the boat. Choose to do a number of included water activities like kayaking, snorkelling, fishing or visiting nearby islands. Disembark and explore Paihia before enjoying dinner with the group. Basic muesli, corn flakes, and the captains' favourite porridge Picnic lunch (piece of fruit, sandwich, brownie, and snack bar)
Meals: B, L, D
Day 4: Paihia/Auckland
Take advantage of optional morning activities such as skydiving, fishing or visiting the historic town of Russell.
Enjoy a free morning to relax. Opt to skydive or check out the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Return to Auckland in the early evening where the tour finishes upon arrival. Please book any onward flights after 21:00.
Meals: B

Inclusions

Included

  • Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
  • Snorkelling in Goat Island Marine Reserve (seasonal)
  • Overnight boat excursion with included activities onboard like snorkelling, fishing, and kayaking
  • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
  • Transport

    Private vehicle
  • Accommodation

    Hostels (2 nts), Houseboat (1 nt) All nights multi-share

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