Overnight Cruise - The Rock Bay of Islands
About
Description
The Rock Overnight Cruise is a unique way to experience the stunning Bay of Islands in New Zealand. Perfect for the active traveler who doesn’t mind getting their feet wet! Ten years ago in a burst of “Kiwi Ingenuity” a 1969 car ferry was given a complete facelift into a stable and purpose built overnight cruise vessel.
The Rock features a spacious and open downstairs living area that includes a bar, dining area, lounge, pool table, piano and open fire. Outside has an open deck that is the perfect platform for fishing, target shooting, swimming, kayaking and snorkelling. Upstairs all cabins have sea views and doors that open onto observation decks perfect for viewing the scenery or wildlife.
Every cruise is small and personal with a maximum of 36 guests. Our crew have all fallen in love with the region. They enjoy introducing our guests to the area and the many new experiences available onboard. The overnight timeframe allows us more time to take in the region and all that it has to offer.
Dinner and breakfast are both relaxed affairs and a great time to swap stories with other guests. The activities are guided and equipment provided. With stable kayaks, fishing gear, masks, snorkels and fins for every guest as well as a small dinghy and 18 person tender the Rock has everything required to “Do it All” in the Bay of Islands. There is also time to explore on your own during the island visit.
With an action packed itinerary guests are welcome to take part in every activity or just enjoy the experience of being on the water in a unique vessel. Whether travelling in a group or on your own you will feel at home from the moment you step aboard.
Typical Itineray
Day One
- Shooting Competition (plastic ducks!)
- 2 - 3 hrs cruising to the outer islands
- Dusk fishing for Snapper
- Buffet dinner on sunset
- Night Kayaking
- Star & Planet Talk
- Night Swimming
- Music, Bar and Log Fire
- Pool Competition
Day Two
- Sunrise and Breakfast
- Cruising and Exploring
- Sea kayaking in the clear island waters
- Snorkeling and Mussel diving
- Island walks
- Beachcombing, cricket, rugby
- Natural experiences, rare sea birds, schooling fish, penguins, dolphins
Trip Includes
- Dinner and breakfast
- Accommodation in a multi share cabin (sleep 6) or a private family cabin (sleep 4)
- Fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, island exploring, night kayaking, target shooting, seafood tasting and much more
Duration
- 22 hours (overnight)
Departures
- 5pm from Paihia wharf (returns by 3pm the next day)
- Summer (Oct-Apr) - departs Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday
- Winter (May-Sep) - departs Saturdays only
- There are often extra departures so if you ware wishing to travel on a date that is not available to book on our website please contact us and we can check if there is a trip available
Other Information
- Cabins are multi share (sleep 6), private cabins (sleep 1 or 2) or family cabins (sleeps 4). If you want to have a room to yourself you must book a private cabin (sleeps 1)
- All rooms have stunning ocean views
- Children are welcome but you must book a private family cabin or book 6 x multi share for a larger 6 bed cabin
- Only operates on Saturdays during winter months
- During peak times the boat can depart daily so contact us if you would like to go on a day other than a Monday, Wednesday, Friday or Saturday
- Bring cash for the bar, towel, swimsuit, a warm jacket and a sleeping bag
- Lunch is not provided on the second day so you can bring your own or pre order
- Sleeping bag and wetsuits can be hired on board
- Vegetarian meals available
- Absolutely no alcohol or drugs to be brought aboard The Rock. A full cash bar is available onboard
- We recommend parking your car at the Pay and Display carpark ($8 overnight) opposite the police station which is only a 3 minute walk to the wharf where the boat leaves from