Ocean Adventure

The Fast Track to the Hole in the Rock

Ocean Adventure is for people who want to get to the Hole in the Rock quickly and with a bit of adrenaline thrown in. This is the fastest boat in the Bay of Islands, and it makes the most of that speed. The 1.5-hour trip combines high-speed blasts across the water with stops for wildlife viewing, photos, and skipper commentary about what you’re seeing.

What You Get

The boat departs three times daily from Paihia (9:30am, 12pm, and 2:30pm), so you can fit it around other plans. It’s equipped with state-of-the-art suspension seating, which is genuinely impressive. The seats absorb the impact when the boat hits waves at speed, making what could be a bone-jarring ride surprisingly comfortable. You’re provided with life jackets and waterproof clothing, which you’ll want because you do get spray when the boat is moving fast.

The route takes you out to Cape Brett Peninsula and the Hole in the Rock at Motukōkako. When conditions allow, the boat travels through the rock formation and also enters Cathedral Cave, a sea cave that’s genuinely dramatic when you’re inside it looking up. The skipper provides commentary throughout, explaining the geography, history, and marine life of the area, and makes stops for photo opportunities and to spot dolphins, seals, and other wildlife.

One option worth considering: if you take the 10am departure (note: the website says 9:30am but check current times when booking), you can add a stopover at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island and return on a later ferry. This needs to be pre-booked. It’s a smart way to turn a short blast into a longer day if you want both the speed experience and some island time.

Who Is It Good For?

This is an adventure activity, and Explore Group is upfront about who it’s suitable for. Minimum age is 7 years, minimum height is 120cm, maximum weight is 120kg. Certain medical conditions rule you out (discuss with the team if you’re unsure). In rough sea conditions, the minimum height requirement can increase to 150cm for safety reasons.

Teenagers consistently rate this as a highlight. The customer testimonials mention families with teens having a great time. If you’re traveling with older kids who want something more exciting than a standard cruise, this is a good pick. Adults who like a bit of speed and don’t mind getting splashed also enjoy it. Not suitable for very young children, people who prefer a gentle cruise, or anyone who gets motion sickness easily.

The suspension seating genuinely makes a difference. Several reviews specifically mention being impressed with how the seats handle the waves and bumps, making the ride comfortable even when conditions are choppy.

Who Might Want to Skip It

If you prefer a relaxed, slow-paced cruise where you can sit back and take in the scenery without any rushing, do the Discover the Bay cruise instead. Ocean Adventure is about speed and thrills alongside the sightseeing. If you get motion sick, the fast movement and wave impacts (even with suspension seating) are likely to be a problem. And if you don’t meet the height, weight, or age requirements, it’s a non-starter anyway.

The boat runs in most conditions, but obviously rough weather can affect whether you get through the Hole in the Rock or into Cathedral Cave. The skipper makes the call on the day based on safety.

About this Activity

• Free cancellation – Bookings can be cancelled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Reserve now & pay later – Keep your travel plans flexible.
• Duration – 1.5 hours.
• Departure – Daily from Paihia at 9:30am, 12:00pm, and 2:30pm.
• Suitable for – Ages 7+ (minimum 120cm height, maximum 120kg weight). Not suitable for certain medical conditions or passengers under 7 years old.
• Weather dependent – Certain sea and weather conditions may require minimum height of 150cm.

What’s Included

• 1.5-hour high-speed cruise to the Hole in the Rock
• State-of-the-art suspension seating for comfortable ride at speed
• Life jackets and waterproof clothing provided
• Visit to Cape Brett Peninsula and travel through the Hole in the Rock (conditions permitting)
• Entry to Cathedral Cave if conditions allow
• Stops for wildlife viewing and photo opportunities
• Skipper commentary about Bay of Islands history and environment
• Option to add Otehei Bay island stopover on 9:30am departure (must be pre-booked, return on later ferry)
• Family passes available

Practical Information

Season: Daily departures year-round. Three departure times give flexibility to fit around other activities. Summer months (December to February) are busiest.

Getting there: Departures from Paihia Wharf (Maritime Building). Easy walking distance from Paihia town center. Parking available nearby.

What to bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses (secure strap recommended as it gets windy), hat that won’t blow off, camera in waterproof case or bag. Waterproof clothing is provided, but you will likely get some spray. Wear clothes you don’t mind getting damp.

Height and weight restrictions: Strictly enforced for safety. Minimum 120cm height (can increase to 150cm in rough conditions), maximum 120kg weight, minimum age 7 years. If you’re close to any limits, contact Explore Group before booking to confirm suitability.

Medical conditions: Certain conditions make this unsuitable. If you have back problems, neck issues, are pregnant, or have other medical concerns, discuss with the reservations team before booking. The high-speed nature and wave impacts (even with suspension seating) put stress on the body.

Island stopover option: Available on the 9:30am departure only. Must be pre-booked. You travel on Ocean Adventure to the Hole in the Rock, then the boat drops you at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island. You catch a later Explore ferry back to Paihia (ferry schedule available from reservations team). Good option if you want both the speed experience and island time.

Photography: The boat does stop for photo opportunities, but when moving at speed it’s difficult to get clear shots. Bring a waterproof case or bag for your phone or camera. Action cameras work well if you have one.

Nearby: Paihia has cafés, shops, and the Waitangi Treaty Grounds within easy reach. The 12pm or 2:30pm departures work well if you’re doing morning activities and want an afternoon blast out to the Hole in the Rock.