The Bay of Islands, North Island – All Aboard the Rock!
They had me at Adventure Cruise. After a few days in Auckland, we were anxious to see what else this glorious country had to offer. So onward and upward to Paihia, the gateway to sandy beaches and exquisite diving in the Bay of Islands. We knew we wanted to spend some time on the water, so after a little research, I found The Rock Adventure Cruise, and an adventure it surely was! The Rock is a 40-person houseboat that offers 3 cruising options complete with meals, activities, and, of course, a stocked bar. Excited to see as much of the Bay of Islands as possible, we opted for the Classic Overnight Cruise. After boarding, we grabbed a beer and practiced our target-shooting on the 3 hour cruise out into the Bay. We were lucky enough to encounter a pod of dolphins passing by before reaching our anchorage point where we got to spend a couple hours fishing for our dinner. I caught the first fish obviously! (unfortunately it wasn’t quite big enough to eat). A few beers and fewer fish later (although David had yet to catch one…haha!), we called it quits as it was time for supper. Enjoying a simple meal at one long table with people from different backgrounds and cultures was an amazing experience, and one of the reasons I cannot recommend The Rock enough! You never know who you are going to meet! Afterward, we set out into the Bay for some night-kayaking. With so many stars overhead and the phosphorescence swirling beneath you, it was hard to determine where the water ended and the sky began – simply magical! Before heading off to our cabin, we were treated to drinks, music, and stories by the fire. Can you say Best Day Ever?
I cannot say enough about the unspoiled beauty of the Bay of Islands! We awoke the next morning to the sun peeking out from behind the nearest island – perfection!
We wandered downstairs to find our captain fishing off the back of the boat and the first mate diving for kina (sea urchins). After some coffee and a lite breakfast, it was time for some diving of our own…and holy moly was that water cold (it was September after all). David, and a few others, braved the waters, but I was content to stay warm and dry onboard the boat. Kina, stingrays, dolphins and other sea life are abundant throughout the crystal clear waters of the Bay of Islands, so scuba diving and snorkeling are some of the most popular activities.
With some much needed hot tea and a quick change, it was off the explore the nearby islands. Waewaetorea Island is simply put, a little slice of heaven! Between the beautiful sandy beaches, lush greenery, and rocky cliffs, the beauty of this small island is captivating! After kayaking to shore, we set off on a hike to the summit for panoramic views of the Bay of Islands. Passing few people along the way, it felt as if we had this paradise all to ourselves!
Alas all good things must come to an end. It was back to the Rock for our return journey to Paihia. But the crew had a few more surprises in store for us! Sashimi and kina! When Timo (one of the crew members) pulled out a knife and started splitting sea urchins in two, we didn’t know what to expect. Taking a spoon, he dug out a yellowish goo and placed it on each of our hands. Some fellow travelers from Singapore immediately ate it up and started breaking open their own kina. As it turns out, kina roe is a delicacy! Delicacy or not, it had a salty and slightly briny taste and was one of our more exotic culinary experiences.
David also took a kina shot. What a reaction!
With a super relaxed vibe where shoes aren’t mandatory (and even discouraged), the Rock Adventure Cruise is a must do in New Zealand! With so much more to explore and discover in the Bay of Islands, we will be back for sure!
