Things to do on (and under) the water
Free bookings
To save you time and hassle we can book you on any of the tours, cruises, charters and restaurants, so you're ready to go when you get here.
All of the cruises and tours get busy in the summer so it's often wise to book in advance.
There are various options for water trips ranging from large cruise launches to yachts.
Sailing
If you prefer a smaller, more personal experience with just eight to ten like-minded people and the enjoyment of going where the wind takes you then a yacht is the way to go.
Cruises
If you want to see all of the bay in one go, then take one of the cruise boats, full or half day, which take you through the islands and bays to the famous Hole in the Rock at Cape Brett. They give you a full commentary pointing out interesting aspects of geography and local history.
> www.fullers-bay-of-islands.co.nz
Dolphins
Orcas in the bay
The bay is home to several pods of dolphins (Orca and whales sometimes come into the bay as well). If you'd like to see dolphins or even swim with them there are several specialist dolphin watching options: either on a motor launch or a yacht/sailboat.
To see or swim with dolphins by yacht there's Carino Sailing and Dolphin Adventures.
For the launches, it's Fullers, Kings or Dolphin Discoveries.
> www.fullers-bay-of-islands.co.nz
Tall ship
There's a square rigger called the R Tucker Thompson which looks magnificent in full sail and gives you an idea of what it was like on ships like the Bounty or Endeavour and for the early settlers coming to New Zealand.
Diving
Two dive companies can take you diving in the bay and out to the Rainbow Warrior wreck.
Maori canoe
For something completely different, you can learn to crew and paddle a traditional maori waka (canoe) with tuition by traditionally clad Ngapuhi toa (warriors)