Bay of Islands Water Activities

Water Activities
The Bay of Islands is best explored from the water, whether that means kayaking between its many islands, flying above the bay on a parasail, or diving one of the world's top-rated dive sites at the Poor Knights. Activities here run from calm, guided half-day paddles to full-day boat trips out to Tutukaka, so the right pick depends on how active you want the day to be and whether you'd rather stay above, on, or under the surface.

Parasailing above the Bay
Bay of Islands Parasailing lifts flyers up to 1,300 feet above the water for a solo, tandem or triple flight departing from Paihia Wharf, with the option of a splashdown on the way back in. It's the standout way to see the bay's islands laid out below without getting wet, and friendly crew keep it relaxed for first-timers. More parasailing options for the region are gathered on the Bay of Islands parasailing page.

Kayaking between the islands
With more than 140 islands scattered across the bay, kayaking is one of the few ways to reach the coves and beaches that boats can't get close to. Guided tours here range from a couple of hours along a rocky coastline to full-day paddles that stop for swimming, snorkelling and lunch on a secluded island. Browse the current Bay of Islands kayaking tours for the full range.

Diving and snorkelling the Poor Knights Islands
An hour or so from the Bay of Islands at Tutukaka, the Poor Knights Islands are a marine reserve regularly rated among the world's best subtropical dive sites. Scuba Diving with Dive Tutukaka runs two guided dives a day suited to everyone from first-timers to dive masters, with the boat passing through sea caves and arches on the way. Non-divers aren't left out: Perfect Day with Dive Tutukaka covers the same islands by boat, with snorkelling, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding included alongside a buffet lunch and a live underwater camera feed on board.

Frequently Asked Questions

What water activities are available in the Bay of Islands?
The Bay of Islands offers parasailing above Paihia, guided kayaking tours between the bay's islands, and diving or snorkelling trips out to the Poor Knights Islands near Tutukaka, alongside the region's boat cruises and dolphin trips.
Do I need diving experience to visit the Poor Knights Islands?
No. Dive Tutukaka runs guided dives for everyone from complete beginners to dive masters, and non-divers can still visit the Poor Knights on a day trip built around snorkelling, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding instead.
Is Bay of Islands kayaking suitable for beginners?
Most guided kayaking tours in the Bay of Islands need no prior experience, just a reasonable level of fitness, and come with a guide, safety equipment and snorkelling gear included.
Where does Bay of Islands parasailing depart from?
Parasailing flights depart from Paihia Wharf, with solo, tandem and triple flight options climbing above the bay for panoramic views back over the islands.
How far is Tutukaka and the Poor Knights Islands from the Bay of Islands?
Tutukaka sits roughly an hour or so from the Bay of Islands, and boat trips out to the Poor Knights Islands themselves take a further 40 to 60 minutes each way from the Tutukaka Marina.