About our Vessel
Bay Explorer is the largest charter boat in Tauranga at an impressive 18.3m (65ft). Making her spacious, stable & Family friendly.
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 her life as a passenger boat in the Abel Tasman National Park as a passenger boat named Abel Tasman Explorer (we purchased her 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 her new home in Tauranga. She now operates as part of the successful business alongside her 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!
Key Information for the BEST DAY EVER Cruise:
- 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 our bow waves, a fantastic chance to see them up close.
- 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.
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
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!
Since returning home to take the helm at Bay Explorer, Emily has focused on creating responsible and sustainable marine wildlife experiences. Guests can explore scenic harbour cruises in Tauranga Harbour, eco-friendly wildlife tours, and trips to Matakana Island, all designed to be educational, safe, and unforgettable. Her private charters remain a popular choice for corporate events, birthday parties, and special group experiences, offering a flexible and personalised way to enjoy Tauranga dolphin encounters and up-close wildlife sightings.
Over the years, Emily has introduced thousands of visitors to New Zealand’s marine environment, fostering awareness, respect, and conservation of marine wildlife. She also works alongside Kewpie Cruises in Mount Maunganui, Tauranga, an iconic tour business running daily scenic harbour cruises and Matakana Island trips, making it one of the area’s most-loved Tauranga tourist activities
With her experience and passion, Emily has introduced thousands of visitors to New Zealand’s marine environment. Her mission is to foster awareness, respect, and conservation of marine wildlife, providing unforgettable wildlife experiences for families, friends, and corporate groups alike.
BAY EXPLORER also operates alongside KEWPIE CRUISES www.kewpiecruises.co.nz in Mount Maunganui, Tauranga. It's an icon tour business in Tauranga now, taking passengers daily on scenic harbour cruises in Tauranga harbour and to Matakana Island.
“Its now part of the local pride in the area, the best of Tauranga tourist activities”. An ideal option if you are limited for time and looking for activities in Mt Maunganui.
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