Fishing and observing dolphins in the Bay of Islands
Date: December 5, 2019
Passengers: 14
Skipper: Jonny
Crew: Sam, Nicole, Celia
Wind: NW15 (20) going SW less than 10 overnight
Overnight Anchorage: Assassination Cove
Snorkel Spot: Mussel Rock
Island Visit: Waewaetorea Island
Wildlife: Lots of penguins
Departed Paihia at 5:10pm heading to Assassination Cove. Sam took the lead on introductions as Jonny had lost his voice. Some guests had pictured a 'cruise' as being for oldies — they were pleasantly surprised by the atmosphere. Dusk fishing at sundown in the beautiful scenery and crystal-clear waters.
Snorkelling at Mussel Rock with great visibility — face-to-face with hundreds of dazzling local fish species. A highlight was watching a few guests overcome challenges around confidence in and around water.
Good fishing hits: kahawai and a blue mackerel, added to the dinner menu. Penguins spotted in their natural habitat at dusk — coming home after a day's fishing at sea.
Day two destination: Waewaetorea Island — kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, island walk, and a beach cleanup. A standout moment was helping one guest overcome a fear of open water, with the whole crew working seamlessly to build confidence and provide security.
The islands offer extraordinary species diversity, plus undersea features — deep canyons, kelp forests, volcanic reefs, caves, and pinnacles.
---
Source: Rock the Boat NZ | rocktheboat.co.nz