Sailing
6 hours
Free cancellation
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Recommended by 100% of travellers
100% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
₹10,934
per adult
Carino Wildlife Cruises
Carino Wildlife Cruises
5
Boat ToursDolphin & Whale WatchingNature & Wildlife ToursDay Trips
7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Monday
7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday
7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday
7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday
7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday
7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Saturday
7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Sunday
7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Full view
About
Experience with us and help protect our wild dolphins! Surrounded by deep blue water, vivid green islands and diverse wildlife, sailing on Carino NZ our 50ft catamaran is the best way to experience the stunning bay of islands. Help to set sails or sit back and relax as the sails catch the breeze. Watch wild dolphins in their ocean habitat. We are only yacht licensed view wild dolphins in the Bay of islands. We can watch and appreciate the magic of wild dolphins. Every ticket directly contributes to marine mammal research and conservation – Protect the future. While we are sailing, watch for our local little blue penguins, the world’s smallest penguin, our crazy diving gannets, pied cormorants, shearwaters, stormy petrels and other ocean birds. An island stop is included, where you get to explore a historic scenic island with nature walks and snorkel the beach. Kiwi style bbq lunch aboard Carino NZ, with a cash bar available. Departs Paihia daily 9.00am-3.30pm
Paihia, New Zealand
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
5.0
255 reviews
Excellent
227
Very good
22
Average
2
Poor
4
Terrible
0
oceangirl27
canada210 contributions
I thought that this trip was just amazing. It was so calm and relaxing to just sail around the different bays. We founds some dolphins unfortunately due to them having babies we werent able to go swimming with them, but that was ok because it was still fun. We docked for lunch were we were taken over in a little boat to go hiking around the island and climb up the mountain for an amazing view of the bay. while we were hiking vanessa was cooking up the lunch which was really good and hit the spot. once lunch was over we headed out again for more sailing and relaxing. if your looking for a good time, a way to just sit back and relax without the motors of the larger boats running then this is definately a tour for you.
Written 19 October 2008
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
hc_206
Queenstown, New Zealand7 contributions
Apr 2014 • Friends
We went on this trip recently as it was a bucket list item of mine to swim with dolphins. It was gorgeous weather and the trip was lovely and relaxing. We were originally looking at a slightly cheaper cruise option with another company but I was so glad they were full and we booked this one, and after the seeing the very full boat on the water this is clearly a much more personal tour to do and worth the extra money. We saw lots of dolphins and penguins and got to book.
The only thing that let it down was the angry crew member...the Captain Vanessa was lovely and couldn't do enough for you, however the man, although not rude directly to customers let off a very angry vibe. He was scowling at people if they were sat in the wrong place, swearing under his breath, and generally made us feel a bit uncomfortable - a real shame to this other wise excellent trip.
The only thing that let it down was the angry crew member...the Captain Vanessa was lovely and couldn't do enough for you, however the man, although not rude directly to customers let off a very angry vibe. He was scowling at people if they were sat in the wrong place, swearing under his breath, and generally made us feel a bit uncomfortable - a real shame to this other wise excellent trip.
Written 5 May 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear hc_206
Thank you for your feedback, we do try to provide a great trip for all our guest and if we we fail, we do like to be informed.
I am sorry for the vibe the crew was giving off and have spoken to the person concerned about providing a better and friendlier experience for our guests.
Regards
Vanessa McKay
Written 8 May 2014
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
JandDseetheworld
it varies2 contributions
We had a thoroughly enjoyable day with Carino. The boat was fully booked, but it did not feel crowded on board at all. There was plenty of space for people to sit inside the cabin or lay about outside. The crew was very friendly, and went out of their way to take us farther out to see a second dolphin pod, keeping us out on the water an extra half-hour just so we could see them. To be honest, we never actually "sailed", as there was absolutely no wind that day. We also did not actually get in the water with the dolphins we saw (they were either swimming past us to get somewhere or there was a baby dolphin in the pod). But they took us to a quiet little beach where we could snorkel to see a few fish as well as climb a short but steep path that gave us a fantastic panoramic view of the bay.
Throughout the day, as we sailed (motored) past many of the larger tour boats packed full of people who had no place to lounge out in the sun, we felt confident that we had made the right decision going with Carino. I would recommend them to anyone.
Throughout the day, as we sailed (motored) past many of the larger tour boats packed full of people who had no place to lounge out in the sun, we felt confident that we had made the right decision going with Carino. I would recommend them to anyone.
Written 1 March 2009
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
OzS
South England468 contributions
Mar 2015 • Couples
Vanessa and her crew really care to have happy clients and do all they can to give them a great experience. Its never overfull of people, very comfortable and the views of wildlife are really close up because you are quite close to the water and can move around. The stopover on the beach with snorkelling, a (steepish) walk to the lookout or just sunbathing, is another high point. Nothing is ever as nice as a BBQ on a boat (provided) and then a sail around the bay.
NOTE: Unlike other boats, even with engines going, its very quiet. This makes a difference.
NOTE: Unlike other boats, even with engines going, its very quiet. This makes a difference.
Written 24 March 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear OzS
Thank you for taking the time to review us. We are so glad you enjoyed you day and spent the day in comfort. Sailing about the bay is always fun for us and we are pleased to be able to share this with you.
regards
Written 4 October 2015
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
WindsongCharters
New Port Richey, Florida30 contributions
Jan 2012 • Couples
It was a lovely day and, as a sailor, I truly loved watching all the regattas throughout the day. While this was NOT at all what I was expecting, the day was nice. Frstly, this review is SUBJECTIVE. I am a woman captain that owns my own sailing charter company. Carino & my company, perhaps, have different goals and objectives with our guests. We are also on opposite ends of the earth with a different culture.
I have travelled and sailed many a catamaran/dolphin adventure all over the world and this was, a bit "sterile" for what I am used to. 99.999% of all the catamaran cruises I've boarded are fun and a party like atmosphere. I have always been able to chat with the captain about the different licensing requirements of the country and always got behind the helm for a couple of hours as we bantered of our experiences sailing and our guests.
This captain had her ivory tower helm in which dicussing anything, let alone speaking with her - was difficult. She towered above you and almost made you feel as if she wanted nothing to do with you.
The crew was not versed in any sailing terms whatsoever. Perhaps they used "laymans" terms for the tourists, but "ropes" are "lines" and "maps" are "charts".
The "Kiwi BBQ" was MOST disappointing. They were hot dogs on stale buns. That's it. They make no allowance for vegetarians or those that don't eat red meat/pork. Even fish/chicken or more salads would have given this a review a bit higher star rating.
While we did not see a single dolphin that day, it was no heartache for me as I sail with them every day at my company. My concern is for others who have never sailed, it is a rather boring day for them with no music, no drinks (well, shall I say no COLD drinks - you could pay for beer and colas but they were warm!!!)
Again, perhaps this is a cultural difference? New Zealand is about the America's Cup, racing, RYA and things done in a certain way only. My business is about tourists, having a FUN, FUN, FUN time, music, great food and if we get to encounter a dolphin (which is 90% of the time) - mega bonus!
Bring a book, snacks & drinks.
I have travelled and sailed many a catamaran/dolphin adventure all over the world and this was, a bit "sterile" for what I am used to. 99.999% of all the catamaran cruises I've boarded are fun and a party like atmosphere. I have always been able to chat with the captain about the different licensing requirements of the country and always got behind the helm for a couple of hours as we bantered of our experiences sailing and our guests.
This captain had her ivory tower helm in which dicussing anything, let alone speaking with her - was difficult. She towered above you and almost made you feel as if she wanted nothing to do with you.
The crew was not versed in any sailing terms whatsoever. Perhaps they used "laymans" terms for the tourists, but "ropes" are "lines" and "maps" are "charts".
The "Kiwi BBQ" was MOST disappointing. They were hot dogs on stale buns. That's it. They make no allowance for vegetarians or those that don't eat red meat/pork. Even fish/chicken or more salads would have given this a review a bit higher star rating.
While we did not see a single dolphin that day, it was no heartache for me as I sail with them every day at my company. My concern is for others who have never sailed, it is a rather boring day for them with no music, no drinks (well, shall I say no COLD drinks - you could pay for beer and colas but they were warm!!!)
Again, perhaps this is a cultural difference? New Zealand is about the America's Cup, racing, RYA and things done in a certain way only. My business is about tourists, having a FUN, FUN, FUN time, music, great food and if we get to encounter a dolphin (which is 90% of the time) - mega bonus!
Bring a book, snacks & drinks.
Written 29 January 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Wind song Charters
I am sorry that our tour was not what you expected. Our tour is designed to show the environment and enjoy the natural beauty of the Bay of Islands.
Most of our guests are not sailors as enjoy the sounds of sailing, when the engines are turned off, this is a new experience for them.
I am sorry the captain did not talk to you personally, as you noted, no dolphins were found on that tour, the crew and captain were on lookout for any signs of marine mammals.
Our lunch is optional and only $6.00 pp, if the crew had know that you found it disappointing, we may have been able to offer you a alternative.
Thank you for your feedback, I appreciated all comments and feedback. We endeavor to provide a great experience for all out guests and feedback helps.
Vanessa McKay
Carino Sailing and Dolphin Charters
Written 4 February 2012
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
GrahamR55
London, UK80 contributions
Feb 2020
This is one of the smaller boats. It can take up to 30 people and we only had 19 on the day we went out. Such a contrast to the bigger boats that you see as you actually get time to talk with the crew and other passengers. Vanessa and her crew were very knowledgable and their enthusiasm shines through. The wildlife was very shy on our day which of course was disappointing but it did not detract too much. You take this chance when you book. No problem recommending this tour.
Written 29 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear GrahamR55
Thank you for taking the time to make feedback and for highly recommending our tour. Myself and the crew love to take the time and chat with our guests and share the stunning Bay of Islands with you. Thank you for understanding that wildlife are completely wild and each day is different. Even if we did not get to sight dolphins on this day, please beware that a portion of your fare is still going to the protection of the dolphin in the Bay of Islands, Thank you for choosing us.
Written 23 June 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jana D
New Plymouth, New Zealand107 contributions
Jan 2019 • Family
We went with our kids, aged 9 and 14. They loved it, it was the highlight of our 3 week holiday. very knowledgeable skipper, really passionate about the dolphins and very friendly crew. We found the dolphins, they had 3 babies with them so no swimming with them. But we spent a good half an hour around them, they came absolutely close, even rubbing their backs on the rudder of the boat. It was so nice to be almost at same level, rather than on one of the mass tourism boats we also saw, were people were like sardines over 3 decks! We only paid about $20 pp extra and had another hour on board too. The catamaran was spacious enough for us just under 30 people. Lunch was basic but fine. We stopped at Roberton Island for an awesome walk to a viewpoint, great snorkeling in one of the amazing lagoons and then we sailed back home. Just little wind that day but what an awesome trip! Thanks so much guys, we have been with you 15 years ago and will be again! Highly recommended.
Written 4 February 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jane6396
Adelaide, Australia39 contributions
Jan 2019 • Couples
What an amazing day. Vanessa, Rhonda and Tim were fantastic and their knowledge and passion the area and wildlife certainly and enhanced our experience. Cannot fault this tour. Have been in many boat trips particularly in Australia and this is our best experience ever. My husband is a very nervous sailor and he loved it too. Great value and cannot recommend this highly enough. If you only do one trip whilst in this beautiful area, choose this one
Written 29 January 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Asgar Shane Mamoe
Auckland, New Zealand73 contributions
Dec 2016
I've been on most, if not all water related tours in the Bay Of Islands and Carino is by far my favourite.
A relaxed environment with an extremely knowledgeable crew that are respectful of marine life and go out of their way to ensure their guests are well looked after.
We decided not to swim with the dolphins on this particular visit (we sailed with Carino on 3 different visits) and just spend the time relaxing as the catamaran sailed and a bit of snorkelling as we anchored for lunch.
Beverages can be purchased on board and for a reasonable cost, lunch in way of a light BBQ can be prearranged during your booking.
The atmosphere is more relaxing and personal, than the bigger boats that offer similar tours and that's just perfect for us.
A relaxed environment with an extremely knowledgeable crew that are respectful of marine life and go out of their way to ensure their guests are well looked after.
We decided not to swim with the dolphins on this particular visit (we sailed with Carino on 3 different visits) and just spend the time relaxing as the catamaran sailed and a bit of snorkelling as we anchored for lunch.
Beverages can be purchased on board and for a reasonable cost, lunch in way of a light BBQ can be prearranged during your booking.
The atmosphere is more relaxing and personal, than the bigger boats that offer similar tours and that's just perfect for us.
Written 6 February 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear shanozM
What a lovely review, thank you. Relaxing and personal is what we are aiming for, I am very glad that you came away from our tour with the understanding that we are very respectful of the dolphins and the marine environment. Hope to see you again!
regards
Written 18 June 2017
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Zak192
Nairobi, Kenya27 contributions
Dec 2015 • Couples
This was a great day out on the water. Although we weren't able to swim with the Dolphins as they had young babies it was still an amazing experience especially seeing a three day old. The catamaran is beautiful and if you want you can get involved with sailing it. The captain and crew were amazing and really knowledgable about the area and the Dolphins. Lunch can be bought and was excellent, as vegetarians we had really good vegetarian hotdogs and salad. We stopped over on an island where you can snorkel (not much to see) and walk to a lookout point for 360 views of the bay.
Written 12 December 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
hi there! we will go on the day cruise with you in November. Is there a possibility to change on the boat or do you recommend putting on swimming clothes in advance?
Written 29 September 2023
Hi, what is the max amount of people on the boat?
Thanks
Camilla
Written 10 October 2022
What time does the cruise return? We are on a cruise ship which leaves at 5 p.m. and need to be back no later than 4 p.m. Also, what is the water temperature typically at the end of March? Thank you.
Written 3 March 2020
Hi
We return to the Paihia wharf around 3.30/3.45pm. You will need to take a cruise bus back to the tender port of Waitangi ( about 10mins away).
cheers
Written 4 March 2020
Hello,
is it possible to park on the premises or where would it be best/safest to park our car while on a day tour?
Thanks!
Written 13 October 2019
Pahia is a small town. Quiet and quite safe,as is much of New Zealand. There are parking spaces along the roads and side streets. We left the car in the hotel car park and walked to the quayside. Have a great trip.
Written 14 October 2019
What time is the departure for the dolphin tour with BBQ included ?
If it's early in the morning, where do people usually stay (cheapest possible) since there may not be any means of transport if too early.
Written 7 October 2018
Dear Machida
Our tour departs paihia wharf at 9.15am. In paihia there are many different accommodation options, backpackers, motels, hotels.
I hope this helps.
Written 8 October 2018
Is it possible to book for tomorrow and how much please?
Written 20 March 2018
Hi Yes we have seats on the 23rd Mar 18. please call to book 09 4028040
cheers
Written 21 March 2018
sarahcamiller87
Hastings, New Zealand
Hello,
how much would this cost. I'm looking for two adults and 2 children.
Thank you, Sarah
Written 22 September 2015
Dear Sarah
Thank you for your inquiry. The cost for the day sailing is $119.00 per adult and $74.00 per child. Total cost is $386.00. It is an extra $6.00 pp if you wish to have the BBQ lunch.
I hope this helps
Regards Vanessa
Written 22 September 2015
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