First Stop Magic: Sailing into the Bay of Islands & the Legendary Hole in the Rock
After departing Auckland aboard the beautiful Oceania Nautica, our journey through New Zealand began with one of the country’s most iconic and awe-inspiring destinations: the Bay of Islands.
It’s hard to imagine a more perfect place to begin a cruise. With 144 subtropical islands scattered like emeralds across turquoise waters, the Bay of Islands offers a breathtaking introduction to the spirit of Aotearoa (New Zealand). As we arrived, the morning light danced across the sea, and I could already feel the peace and power this land holds.
Sailing Through the Hole in the Rock
We boarded a catamaran for a coastal cruise to one of the region’s most famous landmarks: the Hole in the Rock on Motukokako Island. This towering sea arch, shaped by centuries of wind and water, is more than just a geological wonder—it's a sacred site deeply woven into Māori history.
As the catamaran approached the opening, our captain paused, allowing us to take in the full majesty of the rock. Then, with calm seas as our guide, we passed right through the hole—a moment of stillness and awe that I’ll never forget. Nearby, perched atop rugged cliffs, the Cape Brett Lighthouse stood tall, a quiet sentinel that has guided mariners since 1910.
The Spirit in the Stone
There’s something mysterious about Motukokako. According to Māori legend, warriors would paddle through the hole before going into battle. If water dripped onto them as they passed beneath, it was seen as a spiritual warning—a sign from the ancestors.
And then there's the face in the rock. If you look closely at the cliffs surrounding the opening, you may see the profile of a guardian chief carved by time into stone. It is said his spirit remains, watching over the waters and the people who travel them. Whether you believe in legend or simply feel the energy of the place, the experience is nothing short of magical.
Honoring the Māori
To truly appreciate the Bay of Islands is to understand the people who have long called this place home. The Māori are the Indigenous people of Aotearoa, having arrived more than a thousand years ago in ocean-going waka (canoes). Their culture is built on deep respect for the natural world, for ancestry, and for storytelling. You feel their presence not only in sacred sites like Motukokako, but in the language, the place names, the carvings, and the warmth of the people.
A Solo Traveler’s Reflection
As a solo traveler and cruise specialist, I find great joy in helping others experience moments like this—especially those navigating the world on their own or with accessibility needs. The Bay of Islands reminded me that solo doesn’t mean solitary. It means being open—to connection, to culture, to nature, and to moments that make your heart swell.
This was only the first stop on our journey, but it set the tone for everything that followed: thoughtful travel, cultural depth, and unforgettable experiences.
New Zealand has a way of stirring something inside you. From the ancient face in the rock to the still-standing lighthouse, every element of the Bay of Islands tells a story. I feel honored to have begun this voyage here—and I know I’ll be back.
If you're dreaming of a cruise that blends natural beauty with cultural richness, the Bay of Islands is a place that will speak to your soul.
