Napier, New Zealand, is a city that offers much more than just its stunning Art Deco architecture. Its location along Hawkes Bay makes it an ideal spot for exploring by boat or cruise, whether you want a quick glimpse of the city’s highlights or an in-depth private experience. One of our favorite options is the Napier Cruise Excursion Art Deco Tour and Wine Tasting, which combines cultural sights, local stories, and wine tasting — all perfect for a short stop. This tour is designed to help cruise ship passengers maximize their limited time ashore while enjoying personalized attention and local insights.
For travelers interested in a more leisurely, in-depth exploration, the Art Deco Walking Private Tour from Napier Cruise Port offers a detailed look at Napier’s famed architecture and scenic waterfront. Meanwhile, those seeking a broader countryside adventure might prefer the Te Mata Explorer Private Tour from Napier Cruise Port, which combines nature, local food, and vintage cars into a full-day private excursion.
Quick Overview
This list features short, guided cruises and walking tours that highlight Napier’s Art Deco architecture, cultural sites, and scenic countryside. From quick shore excursions like the Art Deco Tour with wine tasting to full-day private adventures exploring waterfalls, honey farms, and panoramic peaks, there’s a tour suited to nearly every interest and schedule.
1. Napier Cruise Excursion Art Deco Tour and Wine Tasting
At number 1, this 3-hour 30-minute cruise excursion is perfect for cruise passengers wanting a snapshot of Napier’s highlights with a touch of local flavor. The tour kicks off with a visit to the Art Deco quarter, where beautifully preserved buildings from the 1930s provide a vivid backdrop for storytelling about the city’s reconstruction after the 1931 earthquake. Your passionate local guide shares stories beyond the basics, including hidden anecdotes you won’t find in guidebooks.
A highlight is the visit to the Atea a Rangi, a Māori cultural site where you’ll learn about traditional navigation tools used by Polynesian explorers. This adds a cultural depth to the tour that sets it apart. The drive through Ahuriri, once a working fishing village, now a lively suburb with boutique shops and waterfront cafes, offers a glimpse into Napier’s maritime heritage. The tour culminates with a wine tasting at a local vineyard, giving you a chance to sample regional wines and enjoy the scenic views.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on personalized storytelling and culture, making it ideal for cruise passengers with limited time but a desire for authentic experiences. Priced at around $109 per person, most travelers find the value excellent, especially considering the inclusion of local wine and cultural stops.
Bottom Line: This tour balances history, culture, and local flavors in a compact timeframe, making it an excellent choice for those on a tight schedule.
$109.34 per person
2. Art Deco Walking Private Tour from Napier Cruise Port
At number 2, this 4.5-hour private walking tour offers an immersive experience of Napier’s famed Art Deco architecture. Starting along the scenic Marine Parade, you’ll stroll past iconic landmarks including the Pania of the Reef statue, the Soundshell, and the Veronica Sunbay. These sites are not only photogenic but also steeped in local stories and legends.
The tour includes a visit to the Art Deco Trust, which features a brief but engaging 20-minute film about Napier’s 1931 earthquake and its aftermath. This contextualizes the city’s unique architecture and why it’s considered the best-preserved example of Art Deco style in the world. For those with extra energy, the guide can recommend an optional hike up to the Bluff Hill Lookout, offering panoramic views of Napier’s waterfront and the Pacific Ocean.
While this tour costs around $249 per person, it’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, personalized experience with plenty of time for photos, questions, and extra explorations. The focus on architecture and scenic waterfront makes it ideal for design lovers and those wanting a relaxed, in-depth look at Napier.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who value personalized attention and want to really understand Napier’s architectural story while enjoying stunning coastal scenery.
$249.00 per person
3. Te Mata Explorer Private Tour from Napier Cruise Port
Number 3 offers a full-day private adventure that takes you beyond the city’s borders into Hawkes Bay’s countryside. Starting with a scenic drive, you’ll visit Maraetotara Falls, where a peaceful 45-minute walk guides you through lush scenery and ends at a waterfall swimming spot — perfect for a quick nature break.
Next, the Arataki Honey Visitors Centre, the largest beekeeping operation in the Southern Hemisphere, invites you to sample Manuka Honey and learn about honey production. This stop is especially appealing to food lovers and those curious about local products. The tour continues to Te Mata Peak, offering breathtaking views over the Hawkes Bay, and then to the Hooters Showroom, a vintage car enthusiast’s dream.
This tour’s private nature allows you to customize stops and pace, making it ideal for families or small groups wanting a flexible, all-encompassing day. At $531 per person, it’s an investment in an experience that combines nature, food, and vintage charm.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a personalized, full-day escape into Hawkes Bay’s scenic and cultural landscape, with plenty of unique stops.
$531.00 per person
How to Choose
When selecting the right boat or shore tour in Napier, consider your interests, available time, and budget. For a quick taste of Napier’s architecture, the Art Deco Tour with wine tasting offers excellent value and cultural insights. If you prefer a more detailed exploration, the private Art Deco walking tour provides an in-depth look at the city’s design and scenic waterfront. For those wanting a full countryside experience, the Te Mata Explorer is ideal—especially if you’re interested in nature, local food, and vintage cars.
Think about your fitness level and interest in walking or driving. Walking tours suit those comfortable on their feet, while private drives are perfect for travelers with limited mobility or those who want to relax. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak cruise season, to ensure availability.
In summary, Napier offers a variety of boat and shore excursions tailored to different interests and schedules. Whether you’re after a quick cultural snapshot, a leisurely in-depth exploration, or a personalized countryside adventure, these tours provide a well-rounded taste of Hawkes Bay. For the best experience, consider your interests, budget, and time constraints—and don’t forget to book early to secure your spot.