Island Experience With Lunch

OVERVIEW

Cruise to Urupukapuka Island, a serene beach-blessed oasis where you can relax for hours however you please. To reach this largest of the 144 islands in the gorgeous Bay of Islands, you will cruise through a stunningly beautiful seascape, where you may spot bottlenose dolphins and other marine life. Upon arriving at Otehei Bay, which is tucked between two headlands on the island’s southern shore, you will be free to enjoy the golden sands and crystal-clear waters. You might take a refreshing swim in the sea, stretch on a towel and bask in the sun and ease into a bean-bag chair and gaze out over the sheltered waters. Once populated by the Māori, the island still holds several of their fortified areas known as pās. American author Zane Grey used Urupukapuka as a base for his early 20th-century fishing expeditions and his writings brought great attention to the Bay of Islands.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise through the beautiful Bay of Islands to Urupukapuka, the largest of the islands.
• Spend free time enjoying Urupukapuka at your leisure, whether swimming or just relaxing.
• Enjoy a buffet lunch along Otehei Bay on the island’s southern shore.
• Walk to a scenic lookout point and a former Māori fortified area if you wish.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing with a swimsuit underneath.
• Bring a hat, towel, and sunscreen.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.