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Bay of Islands (Russell, New Zealand)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Australia - New Zealand - Pacific Ocean Islands

Local Time 2024-04-30 07:10

Port Bay of Islands cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Bay of Islands, Russell, New Zealand. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

The Bay of Islands is an area located on the east coast of Far North District (Northland Region) of New Zealand's North Island. Currently, it is one of NZ's most popular fishing, cruise ship- and tourism travel destinations. Port Russell (locode NZRUS) is the Bay of Islands' principal cruise port, while Paihia is the main tourist town. The town of Russell (aka Kororareka) was established in the early-19th-century as New Zealand's first permanent European settlement and seaport.

The Bay of Islands is approx 60 km (37 mi) northwest of Whangarei City (Northland Region's capital and NZ's northernmost city). Cape Reinga (Aupouri Peninsula's northwesternmost tip) is approx 210 km (130 mi) further to the northwest. The Bay of Islands groups a total of 144 isles, the largest of which is Urupukapuka (208 hectares / 514 acres / 2,1 km2).

Regularly scheduled ferries interlink with daily crossings Urupukapuka with Russel and Paihia. Whangarei has population around 55,000. Paihia (approx 60 km / 37 mi north of Whangarei) has population under 2000. Russel has population under 1,000.

Bay of Islands cruise terminal

Bay of Islands cruise port (New Zealand) has no dock that is able to handle passenger ships. Cruise vessels anchor in the bay (near Russell) and passengers are offloaded via the ship's tender boats.

• Most cruise lines tender to Paihia, but it depends on the ship's daily arrangement.
• A ferry service is available between Russell and Paihia.
• At Waitangi (western side of the bay) there are free of charge shuttle busses to Paihia.

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Coming in to the Bay from a cruise ship?

The Bay of Islands is a tender port, so you will arrive by Tender at the Wharf at Waitangi. 

On arrival at Waitangi those on pre-booked tours will be met and directed to their transport. For free independent travellers complimentary shuttle buses are available for the short 5 minute trip into Paihia, which is the hub of Bay of Islands activities.

Alternatively you may chose to walk around the waterfront to Paihia which is a beautiful 20-25 minute walk. Ambassadors in Waitangi will be happy to provide you with information and offer you a map of the area.

The shuttle buses run continuously between Paihia and Waitangi for the duration of your vessel’s visit to the Bay of Islands. The shuttles also stop at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds which is the scene of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi New Zealand’s founding document and is a must see.

On return to the Waitangi Wharf the Bay of Islands Yacht Club facilities are open to cruise visitors. The club provides restroom facilities, a small cafe offering homemade wares and hot and cold drinks, and offers spectacular views of your ship anchored in the Bay.

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Bay of Islands Cruise Ship Schedule For 2023

Options for Cruise Passengers

If you've planning to arrive in the Bay of Islands via cruise ship, then welcome! The Bay of Islands are a collection of holiday islands set in tranquil waters teeming with dolphins and other forms of marine life.

Boat cruises to explore the idyllic islands are very popular and cater to all tastes. Take an ocean safari to swim with dolphins, sail on a yacht, cruise straight to an island for a walk and a picnic, or go on a fishing charter. You can even paddle a traditional Maori canoe. The Bay of Islands was the first piece of New Zealand to be settled by Europeans. Key historical attractions here include New Zealand's first capital, Russell, and the house where New Zealand's most important document, the Treaty of Waitangi, was signed in 1840.

We hope to help you fill your day with some of the wonderful activities available.

Here are a few suggestions.

For a thrilling experience of the bay, why not jump on a helicopter and fly across the islands. It really puts the bay into perspective. Or steel yourself for a Jet Ski Ride to the Hole in the Rock. For a more sedate option float up in the air above the Bay of Islands in a parasail. The views are spectacular!

There are also more sedate half-day Hole in the Rock tours, where - if you’re lucky - you might see dolphins playing in the bow wake of the boats.

There are plenty of local walks if you fancy stretching your legs - around the Treaty Grounds along the coast, or up to the viewing point via the School Road track. To capture a bit of local history, take one of the local tours or, to get a sense of life in Northland, visit the charming towns of Kawakawa and Opua, taking in the Glow Worm caves on your way home. If you want something more of a workout, try kayaking or cycling part of the Twin Coast Cycle Way.

There’s a regular artisan market on Paihia’s village green where you can purchase locally made arts and crafts, then hop on a the ferry to Russell for a stroll around this beautifully preserved village. Visit the historic church and Pompalier House. Round it off with afternoon tea at the Duke of Marlborough.

Alongside Restaurant

Alongside is an exciting social space situated over the water in the stunning bay of islands. There is no place quite like it in Northland and we...

ABC Shuttles and Tours

Taxi, Tours and Private Hire service in Kerikeri, Paihia, Bay of Islands and surrounding areas in New Zealand's stunning Northland

Adventure Puketi

Enjoy a range of forest walks including day, overnight and weekend tours as well as a lavish Bed & Breakfast to accommodate your relaxing Bay of Islands getaway.

Bay of Islands Night Kayaking Ltd

Our Bay of Islands adventure tourism business is a boat cruise that does kayaking. Our specialist boat that we built, allows us to deliver a more...

Bay of Islands Parasail

PAIHIA PARASAILING COME PARASAILING IN PAIHIA'S ISLAND PARADISE Parasailing in Paihia is the ultimate way to see the spectacular island...

Bay Beach Hire

At Bay Beach Hire, we specialise in Kayaks, Paddle Boards, Sailing, Bikes and more. With our professional and friendly team, you're sure to have...

Barefoot Sailing Adventures

Looking for a unique, kiwi experience? Take a boat trip with Barefoot Sailing Adventures

Carino Sailing And Dolphin Charters

Experience with us and help protect our wild dolphins! Surrounded by deep blue waters, vivid green islands and diverse wildlife, sailing on...

Coastal Kayakers Limited

Since 1988 Coastal Kayakers has been offering Half Day, Full Day, or Multi Day Guided Tours of the Historic Waitangi River, Haruru Falls water...

Explore Group Limited

Specialists in Hole in the Rock cruises, day trips to Cape Reinga and dolphin cruises in the Bay of Islands. Explore incredible places, take...

Paihia Mountain Bike Rentals

Welcome to Paihia Mountain Bikes! Official Rental, Shuttle and Guiding Company for both the Waitangi Mountain Bike Park and the Twin Coast Cycle Rail Trail.

Rogue Pony Tours are about showcasing the Bay of Islands as one of the finest locations in New Zealand particularly seen from our unique...

Taiamai Tours Heritage Journeys Limited

Waka Tours - Maori Culture. The Best Maori cultural experience in northland

Get Reel Charters

Get Reel charter fishing from Russell and Paihia costs start from $110.00 Target snapper, kingfish and marlin. Being based out of Russell and...

Bay of Islands Sea Shuttle

Join us for an Island Getaway! Scenic cruising, paddle boarding, swimming, snorkelling, island walks and wildlife, experienced on a small personalised tour in the Bay of Islands

Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Nau Mai Haere Mai Welcome to New Zealand's most important historic site. The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are an absolute must-do when you are at...

Russell Tours

See the Sights and Hear the History!

The Rock Adventure Cruise - Activity

Come aboard The Rock Adventure Cruise for an action-packed, scenic tour of the Bay of Islands. The Rock is a tour of the Bay of Islands with...

Best seen from above! Fly over the Bay of Islands or up to Cape Reinga

Flying Kiwi Parasail

Enjoy stunning aerial views of the Bay of Islands from the perfect safety of our custom-designed parasail boat. Suitable for the entire family, no...

The Rock Adventure Cruise

Come aboard The Rock Overnight Cruise for an action-packed, scenic tour of the Bay of Islands. The Rock is a tour of the Bay of Islands with...

Paihia Dive

Dive trips to the Wrecks and Reefs of the Bay of Islands, Also Diver Training. The HMNZS Canterbury F421 now rests in Deep Water Cove near Cape...

Total Tours

TOTAL TOURS can take you on one of our tried and true tours or we can personalise a tour for your group, come with us and explore this spectacular region of New Zealand.

35 South Aquarium Restaurant & Bar

Come join us right on Paihia's waterfront at 35° South Aquarium Restaurant & Bar for a taste of Bay of Island's life. Enjoy dining above the...

Fullers GreatSights Bay of Islands

Fullers GreatSights Bay of Islands offers the most extensive range of Bay of Islands cruises. See all the top Bay of Islands attractions, like the...

Bay of Islands Kayaking

We take Small Tours..... Usually 8 or Less! A True Adventure. See Nature up Close. Stop on Multiple Islands to Walk and Snorkel in a Day.

35 Degrees South & Alongside - Deals & Events

Come join us right on Paihia's waterfront at 35° South Aquarium Restaurant & Bar for a taste of Bay of Island's life. Enjoy dining above the...

Skydive Bay of Island

Come fly with us! Skydive Bay of Islands is New Zealand’s number one destination for skydiving at the beach. Blue skies, clear blue waters,...

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Family holiday.

A traditional holiday destination for Kiwi Families the Bay of Islands has loads to entertain the young and young at heart.

Escape to the Bay of Islands for some romance with your special someone

Jet Skis, Skydiving, Scuba Diving, Kayaking and more are all available in the Bay of Islands

Chill out on a white sand beach or watch the world roll by with a glass of wine

Budget Activities

Great value activities are on offer all over the Bay of Islands

Rainy Day Activities

No matter the weather the Bay of Islands has something to keep you entertained

Weekend Packages

Escape for a weekend to the islands with these great offers

Indulge yourself with some 5 star treatment from accommodation and spas to private yachts or helicopter rides

• Coral Princess 2.400 passengers 16 Aug 2024 - 07:00
• Queen Elizabeth 2.503 passengers 12 Oct 2024 - 00:00
• Celebrity Solstice 3.420 passengers 16 Oct 2024 - 07:00
• Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 17 Oct 2024 - 07:00
• Celebrity Edge 3.373 passengers 19 Oct 2024 - 09:30
• Ovation Of The Seas 4.819 passengers 29 Oct 2024 - 07:00
• Celebrity Edge 3.373 passengers 09 Nov 2024 - 10:00
• Silver Muse 691 passengers 11 Nov 2024 - 08:00
• Celebrity Edge 3.373 passengers 21 Nov 2024 - 10:00
• Pacific Adventure 3.174 passengers 25 Nov 2024 - 07:00
• Royal Princess 4.272 passengers 26 Nov 2024 - 08:00
• Queen Elizabeth 2.503 passengers 30 Nov 2024 - 00:00
• Oceania Regatta 803 passengers 06 Dec 2024 - 12:00
• Royal Princess 4.272 passengers 11 Dec 2024 - 07:00
• Carnival Splendor 3.619 passengers 16 Dec 2024 - 07:00
• Silver Nova 728 passengers 23 Dec 2024 - 08:00
• ms Europa 2 516 passengers 24 Dec 2024 - 09:00
• Seabourn Quest 540 passengers 28 Dec 2024 - 08:00
• Celebrity Edge 3.373 passengers 30 Dec 2024 - 07:00
• Royal Princess 4.272 passengers 31 Dec 2024 - 07:00
• ms Westerdam 2.362 passengers 02 Jan 2025 - 07:00
• Seven Seas Explorer 829 passengers 02 Jan 2025 - 08:00
• Seven Seas Explorer 829 passengers 04 Jan 2025 - 07:00
• Ovation Of The Seas 4.819 passengers 04 Jan 2025 - 07:00
• Royal Princess 4.272 passengers 08 Jan 2025 - 07:00
• Azamara Pursuit 748 passengers 18 Jan 2025 - 13:30
• Queen Elizabeth 2.503 passengers 19 Jan 2025 - 00:00
• Silver Nova 728 passengers 20 Jan 2025 - 08:00
• Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 21 Jan 2025 - 08:00
• Azamara Pursuit 748 passengers 21 Jan 2025 - 08:00
• Royal Princess 4.272 passengers 22 Jan 2025 - 07:00
• Viking Sky 930 passengers 27 Jan 2025 - 00:00
• Oceania Regatta 803 passengers 28 Jan 2025 - 14:00
• Azamara Pursuit 748 passengers 04 Feb 2025 - 06:30
• Royal Princess 4.272 passengers 05 Feb 2025 - 07:00
• Azamara Onward 781 passengers 07 Feb 2025 - 00:00
• Island Princess 2.657 passengers 07 Feb 2025 - 07:00
• Celebrity Edge 3.373 passengers 08 Feb 2025 - 08:00
• Island Princess 2.657 passengers 09 Feb 2025 - 07:00
• Seven Seas Voyager 777 passengers 12 Feb 2025 - 07:00
• Amadea 624 passengers 13 Feb 2025 - 09:00
• Arcadia 1.904 passengers 15 Feb 2025 - 00:00
• Amadea 624 passengers 17 Feb 2025 - 08:00
• Crown Princess 3.674 passengers 18 Feb 2025 - 08:00
• Celebrity Edge 3.373 passengers 21 Feb 2025 - 07:00
• Queen Anne 3.353 passengers 24 Feb 2025 - 00:00
• Royal Princess 4.272 passengers 26 Feb 2025 - 09:00
• Queen Anne 3.353 passengers 27 Feb 2025 - 00:00
• Norwegian Sun 2.323 passengers 02 Mar 2025 - 07:00
• Royal Princess 4.272 passengers 02 Mar 2025 - 10:00

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Cruise Ship Visitor day Tours Trips activities Paihia Bay of Islands

New Zealand Cruise Ship Port – Bay of Islands

Day tours, activities & things to do.

Disembark from your cruise ship and explore one of New Zealands top cruise ship destinations, the Bay of islands.

The Bay of Islands provides a warm welcome to its cruise ship visitors, offering a multitude of day tours, activities and things to see and do both on the water or on land.

The Bay of Islands is renowned as a marine playground with a multitude of ways to enjoy being in, on and under the water, from cruising through the 144 islands to the famous Hole in the Rock, the opportunity to see dolphins and other marine life and for the adventurous you can take a guided Jet ski through these stunning islands with stops on remote and idyllic beaches. Feel the wind through your hair sailing through these stunning islands.

For the passengers that wish to explore themselves you can hire a car for the day or for the ones that like a little exercise then check out the electric bikes they are simple and safe to ride, either ride like a regular bike or set the E-assist level from eco to turbo depending on the amount of effort you want to put in or if you need a little help up those hills.

Click on images for more tour information.

Activities on the water in the Bay of Islands:  

Explore NZ – Hole in the Rock Cruise                    Great Sights – Hole in the Rock Cruise                 Tango Jet Ski guided Island Tours 

Paihia Dive – Scenic & Wreck Dives                      Catch fish in the Bay of Islands                                Coastal Kayakers guided kayak trips

Great Sights Dolphin swim & Viewing                   Explore NZ – Dolphin Swim & Viewing                Island Adventurer

Day Sailing trips amongst the 144 Islands of the Bay of Islands:  

Catering to small personalised groups, there is no better way to spend a day in the Bay of Islands than on the water and what better way than to set sail on and experience a day sailing amidst the 144 islands of the Bay of Islands with hundreds of bays and beaches waiting to be explored learning about the area’s history, its diverse marine life with dolphins, penquins and other seabirds frequently sighted, step ashore Kayak or take a swim, Island walks or just simply chill-out.

Day Sailing Trips – ‘She’s a Lady’                         ‘Carino NZ’ a 50ft spacious catamaran                   R. Tucker Thompson Historic Tall ship

Vigilant Yacht Charters

The Bay of Islands is best seen from above:

The Bay of Islands is best seen from above with unique memorable scenic flights by aeroplane or helicopter taking in the panoramic scenery of  Northland’s coastline and its many remote islands. the ultimate helicopter experience is the the opportunity to land by helicopter on top of the iconic landmark of ‘Hole in the Rock’ on Salt Air’s newly built helipad. Surrounded by steep cliffs, over a 150 metres high giving the best vantage point in the Bay of Islands.

Skydiving over the Bay of Islands is arguably the most scenic and picturesque skydive you can do in New Zealand, letting you experience the 144 islands of the Bay of Islands from the air.

Enjoy stunning aerial landscapes of the Bay of Islands on New Zealand’s highest Kiwi Parasail at 1200 ft with a choice of single, tandem or triple flights.

Helicopter flights are located on the Paihia waterfront being the departure and return point for all helicopter scenic flights, and Kerikeri airport for scenic flights by plane and tandem skydive.

Salt Air Scenic Flights Bay of Islands                     Bay of Islands Tandem Skydive                             Flying Kiwi Parasail

Bay of Islands Parasail

Bay of Islands historical places of interest:

The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are New Zealand’s most important historic site and an absolute must-do when you are in the Bay of Islands – rich in history, stunning scenery and a cultural performance not to be missed. Take the ferry to the historic seaside village of Russell for a stroll around this beautifully preserved village.and explore the historical points of interest  with Russell mini Tours. Visit the historic church and Pompalier House. Round it off with and quench your thirst at New Zealand’s first licensed hotel ‘The Duke of Marlborough’

The Waitangi Treaty Grounds                          Russell Mini Tours                                             Bay of Islands Sight Seeing Tours

Things to do on land Bay of Islands:

There are plenty of things to keep the cruise ship visitor entertained with plenty local walks if you fancy stretching your legs, capture a bit of local history with one of the local small bus tours catering to small groups giving a sense of life in Northland, visit the charming towns of Kawakawa and Opua, taking in the Glow Worm caves and the famous Kawakawa toilets  If you want something more of a workout, try cycling part of the Twin Coast Cycle Way. There’s a regular artisan market on Paihia’s village green where you can purchase locally made arts and crafts, or browse the local shops & eateries.

The Waitangi 18 Hole Golf Course                 Short Walks Bay of Islands                             Twin-Coast Cycle Trail

Bay of Islands Electric Bike hire                      Paihia car rental for a day                                350 Chev Trike Tours, Paihia

Booking for Cruise Ship Visitor day Tours Trips activities Paihia Bay of Islands

Bay of Islands

3 day weather forecast.

Rates & Times

Adult $180.00, child $120.00 (4-14).

Departs from the Paihia wharf 9am, boarding 8.45am pier B

Returns to Paihia wharf at 3.00pm

Easy Cancellation

Cancel or change your booking  24hrs before the day of departure  – 100% refund, no cancellation fees!

See full booking terms

Bay of Islands Sailing & Marine Wildlife Experience.

Island & wildlife day cruise includes:.

• Your Relaxing Day sailing
• Your chance to see the magic of Dolphins- Dolphin watching 
• Untouched beaches on Island stopover
• Safe and easy Snorkeling
• Beautiful island scenic walks
• BBQ Lunch (optional extra $10.00pp)

What to bring

Towel, swimming gear, sunhat, sunblock and warm clothes.  Just like going to the beach. Remember your camera.

Please note:

We are proud to be a eco tourism operator in the Bay of Islands who is licensed by the Department of Conservation to interact with marine mammals. Interaction is strictly limited by the rules of the license and we take this responsibility very seriously.

• There is no guarantee of dolphins. Carino operates with a Department of Conservation permit , for the protection of Dolphins and other marine mammals, interaction with them is governed by the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
• We don’t interact with bottlenose dolphins at all, before 12pm daily
• There are certain areas in the Bay of Islands that are marine mammal sanctuary zones , which we do not travel in – if the marine mammals are in these areas, we cannot view them.
• No Swimming with wild dolphins
• The time we spend with a pod is limited to 50 minutes per trip, or 20 minutes if the species is Bottlenose dolphins
• Swimming and snorkeling can be a strenuous physical activity which may increase health and safety risk for persons suffering from medical condition.  Stress from sudden exposure to cold water, panic or strenuous activity can aggravate some medical conditions, and certain medical condition such as heart disease may result in cardiac arrest and death.
• Please  advise us of any medical conditions and  to have any medication with you on the tour.

Check out our Terms and Conditions for booking

WILDLIFE CRUISES

More information.

Island & wildlife Day Cruise

cruise ship schedule 2022-23 14.12.22