About our Vessel
Bay Explorer is the largest charter boat in Tauranga at an impressive 18.3m (65ft).
Operating within the Te Awanui (the Tauranga Harbour), Bay Explorer has a capacity of 140 passengers, but we prefer to keep the numbers much smaller for the BEST DAY EVER Cruise so that everyone is comfortable, with ample space to view the wildlife and interact with the crew.
Because of its size, the Bay Explorer is stable and seaworthy, and big enough for you to spread out and enjoy your time at sea.
HISTORY OF THE BAY EXPLORER
The vessel started its life as a passenger boat in the Abel Tasman National Park as a passenger boat named Abel Tasman Explorer (we purchased it in 2015 and completed a refit of the interior and the engine in the same year). The Bay Explorer crew then took the boat from Motueka through French pass, Cook Strait and up the East Coast of the North Island, to its new home in Tauranga. it now operates as part of the successful business alongside its sister vessel, the KEWPIE (www.kewpiecruises.co.nz)
Our BEST DAY EVER Cruise has been described as awesome, rewarding and memorable – come and join us and enjoy the BEST DAY EVER with us!
- Enjoy 360 degree views of never-ending ocean, islands and wildlife from the safety and comfort of our viewing platform on the upper deck.
- You can expect to see seasonal wildlife including, seals, sunfish, birds, fish and even the occasional shark and orca.
- Dolphins frequently swim along with us and even ride the bow waves, a fantastic chance to see them up close.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, grab one of the kayaks or stand up paddle boards we have available on the deck. We’ll lower these into the water for you using our davit crane at a beautiful, quiet and restful bay.
- If you prefer to spectate, you’re welcome to stay on board and enjoy a cold beer, wine or soft drink from our licenced bar. We’re the only boat in Tauranga with a licensed bar on board, which is reason to celebrate in itself.
- The Bay Explorer comes complete with a huge BBQ – the biggest on any boat, or so we’re told. Lunchtime is the most sociable part of the trip, with the regular exchange of good-humored stories, and delicious, fresh food cooked on board. Who doesn’t love a BBQ at sea?
Over and above this, our crew are qualified professionals who take your safety and enjoyment very seriously. We look forward to extending their knowledge and skills to you and your friends and family. If you’re looking for fun and unique activities in Tauranga, come and join us for the BEST DAY EVER.
Head Turner
Hot Stuff
Bottoms Up
Munchies
How much does it cost?
Our https://bayexplorer.co.nz/tauranga-scenic/ start at $35 for children and $95 for adults.
We also offer a 10% group discount for groups of 10 or more, and special educational rates are also available (conditions apply).
If your looking to see dolphins and other marine wildlife, check out our Half Day Cruise, costs start at $65 for children and $175 for adults..
Does Bay Explorer operate every day?
Bookings are essential and can be made directly from this website. Check out availability here:
Do we need to book in advance?
Where does the boat leave from?
The boat departs from the Strand Wharf in Tauranga City. (you can find us across the road from the Starbucks cafe) by the Sweetest thing cafe.
When do we check in, and what time is departure?
Check-in: 3:15pm for briefing at 3:30pm (The Strand, Tauranga City Waterfront)
Departure: 3:30pm Strand Tauranga
Return: 6:30pm Strand Tauranga
It is very important that you provide contact details (including a New Zealand mobile phone number) where we can get hold of you.
How big is the boat?
What do we need to bring for the cruise?
The following items are recommended for all trips:
- A water/drink bottle
- A warm jacket (bring an extra layer or two so you can layer up or layer down according to the weather)
- Eftpos card or cash (we have a licenced bar onboard, coffee, tea plus a range of snacks)
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Camera (check that your camera is charged; we do have a 230v power charger on board as a back-up)
- Binoculars if you have them (we have a pair on board but if you have your own please bring them).
These are recommended for our full day trips:
- Your own lunch (either a packed lunch or food brought for cooking on our free communal onboard BBQ)
- Swimming gear is optional (and recommended) in summer *
- Wetsuits and snorkelling gear if you are proficient *
*Note that extra items can be left on the boat while you participate in our water sports on our full day cruises.
What is included?
- Cruising on our comfortable vessel BAY EXPLORER.
- Department of Conservation permit: We have a government permit to view dolphins whales and seals, we will spend time with these mammals whenever we see them.
- The shared knowledge and passion of our professional and experienced captain and crew.
- Onboard books and resources
- An onboard licensed bar where you can purchase cold beer, chilled regional wine and much more.
Our full day cruise also includes:
- Anchoring in a secluded island bay, where we can use Paddle Boards and Kayaks
- Use of our onboard communal BBQ at lunch time
Can I bring my children onboard?
Yes you can! We offer Children's pricing for ages 6-12, and children 5 years and under are $20 for all activities.
If bringing children, please be aware of the following:
- While our boat is spacious, it is not a playground and children must be supervised at all times.
- It is not an option to turn around and come back for one passenger, so please only bring your children if you think they will be okay on the boat for the entire duration of the trip.
What happens if I get seasick?
What happens if my cruise gets cancelled due to weather?
Do you have toilets on board?
Can we go swimming at the island?
How do you find marine mammals?
Most importantly, finding wildlife relies on a keen eye and an ability to keep focused on the water; it requires concentration as there is nothing really to focus on the sea and 360° viewing with an infinity of water, but a trained eye can pick up the slightest movement up to a 2km away. Finding the local seabirds and schooling fish can be the gateway to finding dolphins on our safari. It requires an understanding of tidal flows and current movements to find fish and birds. Often you must rely on your own instinct from many encounters in past days. Sometimes we receive information from other vessels out in the Bay who have spotted animals on their own travels.
What research do you conduct?
Are marine mammals endangered?
Do you have educational material on board?
Current books include:
- WONDERS OF THE SEA: THE PROTECTION OF NEW ZEALAND’S MARINE
- MAMMALS by Kate Mulcahy & Raewyn Peart.
- DOLPHINS OF AOTEAROA. LIVING WITH NZ DOLPHINS by Raewyn Peart
Can groups go on the tour?
Is there a maximum age limit or physical ability requirement?
(please inform crew however if you have any special medical or physical needs). Please note that the optional water sport activities will require you to enter the water via an inflatable craft. Our preferred method involves stepping from the vessel onto an inflatable boat and then onto a standup paddle board SUP or onto a kayak. To get back on board, you will need to climb up a ladder up the side of the boat. However - as mentioned - if you require a more passive experience simply stay onboard and relax and observe the beautiful bay, have lunch or snacks and a drink from the licenced bar.
Do these cruises suit everyone?
Does the vessel accommodate wheelchairs?
Book Your Adventure
Come join us on the water to experience the BEST DAY EVER in the Bay of Plenty! Use our easy online booking system to secure your spot now!
Bay Explorer
Bay Explorer are local boat tour specialists who are passionate about all our region has to offer. We are proudly Kiwi owned and operated, with plenty of experience running day trips from Tauranga.
Departure Point
Corner of Wharf Street & The Strand
Tauranga
New Zealand 3110