Island Discovery Tour - Afternoon Kayak

See The Bay As Its Meant To Be Seen

Designed for those who want more than a view from the shore, this guided kayak tour takes you into the quiet, unhurried beauty of the Bay of Islands — places that simply don't exist from a road or a deck.

Your day begins with a scenic 40-minute ferry crossing to spectacular Otehei Bay, the gateway to an extraordinary kayaking journey around Urupukapuka Island and its neighbours. This is New Zealand as it’s meant to be experienced — from the water, at your own pace, far from the crowds.

Paddling through crystal-clear waters, you’ll weave through hidden coves and secret bays, tracing a coastline of white sand beaches that most visitors will never find. 

No experience needed. No pressure. Just the water, the islands, and your guide bringing it all to life.

Beneath you, a vibrant marine world pulses with life — and if the conditions are right, a sting ray may glide silently into view.

A beach stop awaits mid-tour — time to snorkel among the fish, take a swim, or simply sit and let the silence do its work. You’ll hear about the island’s history and the remarkable conservation efforts underway through Project Island Song, protecting this extraordinary place for generations to come.

On the return, we’ll stop to meet the resident snapper at Otehei Bay — an unexpected delight that never gets old — before heading back to shore to unwind and reflect on a morning or afternoon genuinely well spent.

This tour is built for curious people who want to feel connected to a place, not just pass through it. Whether you’re a first-time paddler or simply after something more meaningful than the usual tourist trail, you’ll find it here.

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

REQUIREMENTS

• Suitable for children over 10 years

• No experience required

• Suitable for Low-Medium Fitness 

• Small Groups – maximum of 8 participants per tour

TOUR INCLUSIONS

• Return ferry from Paihia or Russell

• 2.5 - 6 hours Guided Kayaking incl. snorkel time

• Kayak & Spray Deck

• Paddle, Life Vest & Dry bag

• Snorkelling Equipment – Snorkel, Fins, Mask

• Drink & Small snack during tour

• Free Time to explore the island

TOUR TIMES

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

• Ferry departs Otehei Bay at 5.45pm 

• Kayak Tour from 1.30pm - 4.30pm

For more time on the island there is also the option of choosing an 8.30am / 8.40am departure

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