Exploring The Watery Wonders Of The Bay
Visiting the Bay of Plenty and not getting out on the water really should be a crime! But we understand that if you aren’t a fan of surfing or over-crowded beaches then you may just want to stick to cafes and walking tracks. But we are here to try and convince you otherwise with these four alternative ways to get out on the water and get exploring what the region has on offer!
Kewpie Harbour Cruises
Want to get on the water and stay dry while seeing some local wildlife? Then you have to experience the Bay of Plenty’s best value Scenic Tour – Kewpie Harbour Cruises. KEWPIES’ popular tour travels through the Tauranga inner harbour surrounded by the Grand Kaimai range. Scenic features include the Statue of Tangaroa, a diversity of landscapes from untouched white sandy beaches, lush green forests, islands and small village settlements, contrasted by the massive highly developed port infrastructure. Get close- up with cargo and container ships or visiting cruise ships as we travel through Stella Passage and New Zealand’s largest port. Wildlife includes blue penguins, sea birds, (marine mammals can be seen occasionally in season, including NZ fur seals, orca, dolphins).
Better yet, if you are travelling with the family and have children under 12 years – they travel FREE!
Bay Explorer Island & Wildlife Cruise
But if you are looking for a cruise that has more of a focus on the local watery wildlife, then you will have to board this great day cruise! You will explore the aquatic world of seasonal marine wildlife; dolphins, seals, penguins, fish, and occasional whale encounters. The regular dolphin encounters can range from a few animals to hundreds! A full day cruise on a spacious boat with 360° outdoor views from the largest open-air wildlife watching sun deck, along with swimming, paddle boarding, a licensed bar and more – what are you waiting for?!
Waimarino Glow Worm Kayak Tour
If you are looking for something a little more intimate, chill and a tiny bit active, then we have a breathtaking experience that you can’t miss! Paddling a kayak may be something you have tried before, but you probably haven’t kayaked at night – and certainly not have kayaked in the dark to see constellations of glow worms! This fully guided kayak tour comes complete with professional guides leading your group and providing a fascinating & informative brief about the life cycle and peculiarities of the New Zealand glow worm!
White Island Tours
How about travelling on water around an “active” volcano? Whakaari/White Island is home to New Zealand’s most impressive geothermal activity, and during the guided tour, you will get up close to roaring steam vents, bubbling pits of mud, hot volcanic streams, and the amazing lake of steaming acid. The vivid hues of yellow and orange, resulting from the abundant Sulphur on the island, make it a photographer’s dream! With lunch and drinks and views or wildlife also provided, this is a great day out for everyone!