Rakino Island Cruise
Rakino Island is a small pest-free island and considered a little piece of paradise. Take a private cruise to this untouched, isolated and "off-the-grid" destination to explore it's beautiful beaches, and wildlife, or stay in its luxurious island accommodation.
Best for
Luxurious and private accommodation, wildlife and landscape photography, sweeping views of the gulf, nature-lovers, beach-goers.
Time
1 hour 30 minutes to get to the wharf. Spend 4 hours on the island. Total trip 7 hours.
Schedule
Pick up 10am from Z Pier, Westhaven Marina. Leaving Rakino Island at 3.30pm, arriving back in Auckland approximately 5pm.
Cost
The price depends on numbers and requirements. Enquire to book! Private charters only.
Amenities
Licensed bar, flushing toilet, eftpos, sound system, indoor and outdoor seating.
Boat capacity
The Riverhead Ferry can comfortably fit 49 passengers.
Rakino Island is a small and quiet island with only 16 permanent residents. Surrounded by crystal clear waters, and captivating views of the Hauraki Gulf, it's a beautiful isolated island destination. There are many public bays and beaches to walk to and a lot of history to enjoy - including the world's first solar-powered telephone!
The Destination
Where is it?
An island located in the Hauraki Gulf, 21.7kms off Auckland’s mainland.
What can I do?
Popular activities include fishing, walking, diving, snorkelling and swimming. There are no shops or electricity (except for at Hurakia Lodge) so relish in the off-grid nature experience.
How do I get around?
Walking is the only way to get around.
What do I need?
Sun protection, food and drink, light rain jacket, warm layers, good walking shoes, swimming gear, somewhere to put your rubbish, camping gear, and overnight luggage if staying at the lodge. Make sure you also pack your own food for the day as there are no shops on the island. Please wear soft, comfortable, and supportive shoes.
How long should I stay?
As a small island, a day trip is sufficient. Or spend a few days in its luxurious accommodation to relax and rejuvenate.
The Cruise
What you'll see
Rakino Island is further away than the other Hauraki Gulf islands, so during your journey you’ll cruise past Rangitoto, Motuihe, Motutapu, Browns and Waiheke Island.
Drop-off & pick-up
Your pick-up location is Z Pier, Westhaven Marina. Find out how to get to us here.
Onboard the ferry
Play your own music using our AUX sound system, while you watch the beautiful Hauraki Gulf sail past you. You'll have access to seating in the back and front of the boat, with comfortable indoor couches available to relax too.
Food & Drink
Enjoy the range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages from our licensed bar, as well as bar snacks available for purchase. Self-catering for food required. We recommend the Cater Station, or bring your own food to grill on our Weber BBQ. BYO food is free of charge. Eftpos available!
Refunds & Cancellations
Please note the date and time you've requested is still available to others until the deposit or the total amount is paid. Your booking is confirmed when we receive the deposit amount. All our cruises are designed with your safety and comfort in mind. In the event of unsafe sea and weather conditions, we may have to cancel the charter in the interests of your safety. If we need to cancel your trip due to bad weather, we will re-schedule your cruise for a new date or offer a full refund. A pre-warning will be provided 3 days before your departure time, but our owner & skipper will make a final call on the day. When booking, a refundable deposit is required for up to 28 days before departure. Full payment is due 28 days before the date or paid in full if booking within 28 days before your chosen date. Once full payment has been made, it will not be refunded if the charter is cancelled. If you need to cancel the charter due to unforeseen circumstances we can reschedule the charter to an alternative date.
Health & Safety
Your safety is important to us. To ensure that your journey is smooth sailing please make sure you; use handrails when moving around the vessel, remove luggage/bags from seats and aisles, ensure you listen to safety announcements on departure, familiarise yourself with the location of the life jackets on your particular vessel, climbing, jumping or running onboard the vessel is not permitted at any time, do not stand on seats or sit on railings, intoxicated passengers that are not fit to travel are not allowed on any of our vessels, and drugs or illicit substances are not permitted onboard any of our charters. Please note: doorways on our vessel are 45 centimeters wide (0.45 meters). Please wear soft, comfortable, and supportive shoes — no gumboots, penny heels, and work boots.
Biosecurity Information
We follow and support the biosecurity requirements set out by the Auckland Council and the Department of Conservation. Before travelling into the Hauraki Gulf with us, please ensure your gear is clean and pest-free. For more information on how to check your gear, click here.
Over time, The Hauraki Gulf has been compromised by pollution and fishing. There are many pest-free islands that are home to protected species, so to help keep the Hauraki Gulf clean and safe for all species, we ask you to follow our biosecurity instructions. Watch the video here.
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