Rocky Coast Half Day Adventure

RUGGED COASTLINE ADVENTURE

The perfect introduction to kayaking in the Bay of Islands — a short, guided adventure the whole family can enjoy together, no experience needed.

Your adventure begins with a scenic 40-minute ferry crossing to spectacular Otehei Bay — and from the moment you hit the water, you’re in a world most visitors never get to see.

Paddling through crystal-clear waters, you’ll weave between dramatic rock formations and trace the rugged cliffs of Poroporo Island. Beneath your kayak, a vibrant marine world comes to life — spot fish darting below the surface, and if the tide is right, paddle into a small sea cave carved out over centuries. Kids love this part.

No experience needed, and our sit-on-top kayaks make it easy for all ages to join in — even the littlest adventurers.

A snorkel stop gives everyone the chance to explore the underwater world up close, take a swim, or simply float and soak it all in. Your guide will share the story of the Poroporo plant that gives the island its name — prized by Māori for centuries and still used in medicine today. It’s the kind of learning that sticks, because it happens out here, not in a classroom.

On the return, we’ll stop to meet the resident snapper at Otehei Bay — always a hit with the kids — before heading back to shore with plenty of time to explore the island before your ferry home.

This tour is built for families who want to do something genuinely memorable together — not just tick a box. Short enough for young ones, interesting enough for everyone.

With time to explore, unwind, and take in the unspoiled beauty around you…

… this is more than a tour — it’s an immersion into the heart of Aotearoa.

REQUIREMENTS

• Suitable for children of all ages*

• No experience required

• Low-Medium Fitness required

*Children under 5 must be able to fit a child’s life vest and will be seated in the middle of the kayak between two accompanying paddlers. The child must be able to sit upright unsupported. The child will not be required to paddle.

TOUR INCLUSIONS

• Return ferry from Paihia or Russell

• 1 ½ - 2 hours Guided Kayaking incl. snorkel time

• Sit-on-top Kayak with Seat

• Paddle, Life Vest & Dry bag

• Snorkelling Equipment – Snorkel, Fins, Mask

• Free Time to explore the island

TOUR TIMES

• Ferry departs Paihia at 11.30am (Russell 11.40am)

• Ferry departs Otehei Bay at 4.15pm or 5.45pm 

• Kayak Tour from 12.45pm - 3.00pm

WHAT TO BRING

• Activewear / Swimwear

• Warm Jacket

• Towel

• Sunscreen

• Hat & Sunglasses

• Mobile Phone

• Water

Hot showers are available after your tour

Tour available from Saturday 24 October 2026 to Monday 29 March 2027