Discover New Zealand’s
Most Iconic Boat Experiences
Sail, Cruise, and Explore: Iconic Boats That Bring New Zealand’s Waters to Life
New Zealand is home to some truly iconic boats—each offering a unique way to experience the country’s stunning coastlines, lakes, and fiords. From historic steamships to luxurious yachts and adventure-packed cruises, we've curated a list of the most famous vessels that showcase the best of New Zealand’s waterways. At New Zealand Private Tours, we can seamlessly include any of these unforgettable boat experiences in your custom itinerary—whether you’d like to cruise through Milford Sound, sail across Lake Wakatipu, or explore the Bay of Islands by sea. To help you choose, we’ve listed some of the most unique and memorable items to take home—each one a special reminder of your time in Aotearoa.
North Island Iconic Boats
Hole in the Rock Cruise -Bay of Islands
The Hole in the Rock Cruise is one of the most popular activities in the Bay of Islands, offering a scenic boat journey through the region’s 144 islands. The cruise travels past Cape Brett Lighthouse and ventures out to Motukōkako Island, where the vessel passes through the naturally formed Hole in the Rock—weather permitting. Along the way, passengers often spot dolphins, seals, and other marine life. This experience can be included as part of a custom Northland itinerary with New Zealand Private Tours, either as a day trip from Paihia or incorporated into a multi-day exploration of the upper North Island.
Auckland Dinner Cruise - Auckland
Enjoy a relaxed evening on the water with the Explore Group's Auckland Dinner Cruise, departing from the Viaduct Harbour. This 2.5-hour experience combines scenic cruising on Waitematā Harbour with a freshly prepared three-course meal served on board. As you glide past the city skyline, Auckland Harbour Bridge, and historic Devonport, you’ll enjoy stunning views and excellent hospitality. This cruise offers a unique way to experience the City of Sails at sunset, and it can be easily included in a custom Auckland itinerary with New Zealand Private Tours—ideal for couples, families, or small groups wanting a memorable night on the harbour.
The Huka Jet - Taupō
The Hukafalls Jet offers an electrifying 30-minute jet boat adventure on the Waikato River, bringing you right to the base of the mighty Huka Falls—no other operator is permitted to venture this close. You’ll zoom along the river at speeds of around 80 km/h, past lush native bush, sheer cliffs, and hot-water springs, while your skilled driver performs thrilling 360° spins before approaching the roaring falls at water.
This adrenaline-packed experience can be seamlessly included in a custom Taupō or Central North Island itinerary with New Zealand Private Tours—either as a standalone highlight or combined with cultural cruises, geothermal sites, or scenic lakeside drives. We can easily arrange timing, transfers, and packages to suit your preferred pace and travel style.
Cook Strait Ferry Crossing - Wellington or Picton
The iconic Cook Strait ferry crossing connects Wellington (North Island) to Picton (South Island) and takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours. Covering around 93 km, the route offers some of New Zealand’s most dramatic sea views—from Wellington Harbour, through the often turbulent Cook Strait, and into the maze-like Marlborough Sounds, with its fjord-like channels and forested hills.
While this is a ferry service rather than a cruise, it remains a memorable journey. Passengers often enjoy spotting dolphins, seabirds, seals, and occasionally whales, while relaxing on open viewing decks or in onboard lounges. That said, the crossing can be very rough, particularly in high winds, so we recommend checking conditions in advance and being prepared for motion at sea.
South Island Iconic Boats
Kaikōura Whale Watching - Kaikōura
Kaikōura is world-renowned for its whale watching, with tours operating year-round and an impressive success rate of spotting giant sperm whales, along with dusky dolphins, fur seals, and seabirds. The experience takes place aboard modern catamarans designed for passenger comfort, offering indoor seating, spacious viewing decks, and informative commentary from experienced guides. While the crossing can sometimes be bumpy due to ocean conditions, the opportunity to see marine giants in their natural environment is unforgettable. This tour can easily be included in a custom South Island itinerary with New Zealand Private Tours.
The Glacier Explorers Tour - Mr Cook
The Glacier Explorers Tour at Aoraki / Mount Cook offers a rare opportunity to get up close to one of New Zealand’s few remaining glaciers. This unique experience begins with a short alpine walk through the stunning Hooker Valley before boarding a small boat on Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake. Surrounded by towering peaks, you'll cruise among floating icebergs and witness the face of the glacier from a safe distance. Tours operate seasonally (usually September to May) and are guided by experts who explain the region’s glacial history and natural features. This unforgettable adventure can be included in a tailored Mount Cook itinerary with New Zealand Private Tours, offering a truly immersive experience in one of the country’s most dramatic alpine environments.
Shotover Jet - Queenstown
The Shotover Jet is one of Queenstown’s most iconic adventure activities, offering a thrilling high-speed ride through the narrow canyons of the Shotover River. Powered by twin jet engines, the boat skims across shallow water, performing 360-degree spins and tight turns at exhilarating speeds. Operated by experienced drivers, the ride combines adrenaline with spectacular views of rugged cliffs and deep canyons carved over thousands of years. This must-do experience can easily be included in a custom Queenstown itinerary with New Zealand Private Tours, and is suitable for most ages, making it a favourite for both families and adventure seekers.
TSS Earnslaw - Queenstown
The TSS Earnslaw is a beautifully restored vintage steamship that has been cruising Lake Wakatipu since 1912. Known as the "Lady of the Lake," she offers a unique way to experience Queenstown’s alpine scenery, with panoramic views of mountains, bays, and high-country farms. Passengers can explore the engine room, enjoy refreshments from the onboard café, and listen to live piano music during the cruise. The Earnslaw operates year-round and is often paired with a visit to Walter Peak Station, where guests can enjoy farm tours, BBQ lunches, or cycling. This experience can be seamlessly included in a custom Queenstown itinerary with New Zealand Private Tours, adding a touch of history and charm to your journey.
Milford Sound - Fiordland National Park
A cruise through Milford Sound is one of the most unforgettable experiences in New Zealand. Surrounded by towering granite cliffs, lush rainforest, and cascading waterfalls, the cruise takes you along the full length of the fiord to the Tasman Sea and back—typically lasting around 1 hour and 45 minutes. Passengers often encounter wildlife such as dolphins, fur seals, and, during certain seasons, Fiordland crested penguins. With informative onboard commentary and breathtaking scenery at every turn, the cruise offers a truly immersive way to explore this remote and dramatic landscape. It can be included in your itinerary with New Zealand Private Tours, either as a standalone highlight or combined with a scenic flight, private transfer, or overnight stay in Te Anau or Queenstown.