New Zealand
The Rock was the most fantastic experience we had in New Zealand as a family. It is an overnight boat trip which takes you out to the bay of islands where you can have a go at fishing, kayaking and looking at the night stars. We had a really nice meal and the kids were entertained by the young crew who were so friendly and attractive! We then drank in to the early hours and my husband played guitar with one of the crew.
The next day we could swim in the ocean and collect green lipped muscles which were cooked and eaten on board. Our daughter loved this and we saw her confidence grow as she swam in the water. We then moored up at one of the islands and went walking. As we kayaked back to The Rock we were joined by some dolphins which were very playful. We then headed back to shore. All in all one of the best things we have ever done and we met so many interesting people from all over the world.
www.rocktheboat.co.nz
Paihia Wharf Building, The Wharf Marsden Rd, Paihia 0250
(09) 402 7796
Google map: bit.ly/jsKQeF
This trip was the highlight of my year travelling around NZ. There are lots of boat companies in the Bay of Islands; I would recommend ignoring the glossy corporate operators and going on this owner-operated trip.
We saw dolphins, hammerhead sharks and visited remote islands off the tourist trail. The skipper truly makes the trip - a true sea captain with tales from afar!
If you just go on one trip in NZ I would recommend the Gungha II.
GUNGHA NEW ZEALAND CRUISES
RD 1, Kerikeri, Bay of Islands, New Zealand
Ph +64 9 407 7930 Fax +64 9 407 9794 Mobile +64 25 760 670
E-mail BayOfIslandsSailing@xtra.co.nz
Search Been there