Bay of Islands Dolphin Cruise from Paihia or Russell

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Marvel as wild dolphins frolic near you during a half-day dolphin-watching cruise in the Bay of Islands. You'll glide through this scenic region to remote islands where you can hop in the water to snorkel and swim near these free-swimming dolphins (conditions permitting). The experienced crew shares fascinating facts about the dolphins and other marine life you might see, such as orcas, seals or penguins. This tour is limited to 35 passengers, allowing for a more intimate dolphin experience in the waters of New Zealand.

Choose from a morning or afternoon cruise around the Bay of Islands to see dolphins in their natural habitat. After departure from either Russell or Pahia, your boat captain takes you out to secluded islands around the bay to look for bottlenose and common dolphins, as well as other native animals like orcas, baleen whales, seals, penguins and seabirds.

If you get lucky with the weather and wildlife conditions on the day of your cruise, you can jump in the warm water and snorkel near the dolphins. Enjoy swimming in the proximity of these amazing mammals, who are renowned for their intelligence, as well as their grace and agility.

On board the boat, the crew shares informative commentary about dolphin behavior and the marine ecosystem of the Bay of Islands. You’ll also learn about the history of the region and significant events that occurred here, including some that contributed to the founding of New Zealand. Your boat is smaller than most other tour vessels and features a low outdoor viewing deck, underwater microphone, and water jet engines that enhance your dolphin-watching experience. Your cruise ends when you return to your starting point.

Please note: Dolphins are seen on most cruises, however nature is unpredictable. In the unlikely event that no dolphins or whales are spotted during your tour, you can take another dolphin-watching cruise at no additional cost.