ISLAND HOPPING GUIDE
The island days worth booking a whole trip around.
The 8 new zealand island hopping travellers book most, gathered in one place. Which islands each trip reaches, how long you are on the water, who runs the boat, and what a seat aboard costs.
Paihia or Russell catamaran to Motukōkako Hole in the Rock, dolphin/whale spotting, and a 1.5-hour Urupukapuka Island stop with swim time.
Most Popular“Absolute highlight of our 6-month travels around Oceana!! When the pod of dolphins were located, it was an absolute WOW moment - 100% recommended.”
Sail the Bay of Islands by catamaran, snorkel and paddleboard with gear included, then enjoy a 2-hour wildlife sanctuary island stop.
“Bring clothes you can get wet and clothes to keep you dry. You are given the opportunity to snorkel, paddle board, hike, or just enjoy the day on the beach. I chose to hike and paddleboard, had a blast doing both.”
Cruise to Mou Waho on Lake Wanaka, hike for views and Arethusa Pool, and spot rare predator-free native birds with expert local guides.
“35 min each way on small boat 15 pax in total. Steep climb at times, occasional damp (remember decent footwear. Im 71 with average capability. Managed the climb with a few stops to catch a breath. Well worth the views from the top. Jaimie Read more”
Ride a catamaran on Lake Wānaka to Stevensons Island, then hike to the summit with tea and great Southern Alps views.
“The hosts Reon and Adrian were very attentive, knowledgeable, funny and embraced all the cultures on the boat. It was quite rough out in the open but Reon navigated it all expertly. The walk up the island was awesome, just enough puff to lRead more”
Ride a catamaran on Lake Wānaka to Stevensons Island, then hike to the summit with tea and great Southern Alps views.
“Enjoyed the cruise with friendly crew and they were also very knowledgeable about the area. The walk to the top of the island was interesting”
Take a 1-hour catamaran cruise from Wanaka Marina to Ruby Island, then enjoy an easy optional walk and photo lookouts.
“Our Ruby Island cruise was canceled as the Lake was too full with the rain and snow melt. We were vey efficiently transferred to the lake cruise and drinks in the afternoon .it was wet, but the boat handled it well and we had a great familiarisation trip. The crew were excellent and helpful.”
Auckland dolphin and whale cruise with a Hauraki Gulf wildlife search, guaranteed marine sightings, and an island stop on Waiheke.
“Great trip! We weren't lucky enough to see any whales but we did see dolphins! The stop at the winery was a wonderful side excursion.”
Cruise Lake Wanaka to predator-free Mou Waho Island, then hike to glacial views at Arethusa Pool and Roys Bay.
“Great views of the island lake within a lake at the top, a short hike but does have some tricky ish sections”
Every archipelago worth the trip, island by island.
