Things to do in
Mercury Bay

Mercury Bay: Our most recommended tours and activities

Whitianga: Cathedral Cove 2 Hour Boat Cruise

Whitianga: Cathedral Cove 2 Hour Boat Cruise

Based in Whitianga, this scenic boat cruise showcases Mercury Bay’s stunning coastal paradise at its very best. Embark on a 2-hour journey across the rugged volcanic shores of the bay and explore its beautiful beaches including Hahei and Lonely Bay. The highlight of the tour is the world-famous Cathedral Cove at Te Whanganui a Hei Marine Reserve. The site has a rich Maori heritage, attracts around 150,000 visitors per year, and was used as a filming location for the blockbuster movie Narnia. Sit back and relax as you sail around the bay, and marvel at its stunning natural landscapes that stretch across the peninsula. Along the way, listen to your guide share entertaining live commentary about the bay and the wildlife that lives here. Make sure to keep an eye on the water too, as there's always a chance to see dolphins, whales and orcas in their natural habitat.

Whitianga: Sailing Trip to Cathedral Cove

Whitianga: Sailing Trip to Cathedral Cove

Embark on a sailing trip from Flaxmill Bay, a small cove nestled between Cooks Beach and Whitianga to see the iconic sights of Mercury Bay and Cathedral Cove. Lend a hand with the sailing or simply sit back and relax on comfy beanbags and admire the picturesque scenery.  Board our large, modern catamaran, and after a short safety briefing, set sail out to the calm waters of the bay.  As you sail, spot the area's most notable sights with the help of your guide. Keep your cameras ready as you sail past Cathedral Cove. You will enjoy some snacks and drinks during the journey.  Once the boat sets anchor, if conditions are good, choose to swim or snorkel in the marine reserve with the wonderful sea life, or simply chill out on board and soak up the scenery.  The tour concludes back at the starting point in Flaxmill Bay. 

From Whitianga: Cathedral Cove Cruise with Snorkeling

From Whitianga: Cathedral Cove Cruise with Snorkeling

Cave Cruzer 7.8 metres, the only vessel this size able to navigate inside small caves, giant blowholes & caves. Dedicated to explore more spots only accessible by boat over 24kms, getting you closer, for the best unique, unimpeded (no roof) photos & views of wildlife in the Marine Reserve & majestic, volcanic, coastal views possible on the day. See Cathedral Cove, Shakespeare Cliff, Lonely Bay, Cooks & Hahei beaches & more. The only tour with music to experience the acoustics of New Zealand's 2nd largest sea cave, Orua. The prefect mix of time for pictures, local history & geological info. Optional Rock jumping & Snorkel amongst the fish or just view over the side.

Whitianga: Cathedral Cove Adventure Boat Tour and Snorkeling

Whitianga: Cathedral Cove Adventure Boat Tour and Snorkeling

The only Cathedral Cove tour combining high speed thrills, excitement & small cave experiences other boats can’t offer. Cave Cruzer 7.8 metres, the only vessel this size able to navigate inside small caves, giant blowholes & caves. Dedicated to explore more spots only accessible by boat over 24kms, getting you closer, for the best unique, unimpeded (no roof) photos & views of wildlife in the Marine Reserve & majestic, volcanic, coastal views possible on the day. See Cathedral Cove, Shakespeare Cliff, Lonely Bay, Cooks & Hahei beaches & more. The only tour with music to experience the acoustics of NZs 2nd largest sea cave, Orua. The prefect mix of time for pictures, local history & geological info. Optional Rock jumping & Snorkel amongst the fish or just view over the side.

Whitianga: Cathedral Cove Highlights Boat Tour

Whitianga: Cathedral Cove Highlights Boat Tour

Explore 12 kilometers of rugged volcanic coastline from the water on a fascinating boat trip departing from Whitianga. Relax as you discover the best of Cathedral Cove, look out for local marine life, and gaze at nearby islands and beautiful beaches. Board your boat in Whitianga and immerse yourself in its surrounding coastal scenery. Listen to insightful live commentary as you come across iconic locations such as the breathtaking Cathedral Cove, Lonely Bay, Cooks Beach, and Hahei. Pass by towering rock pinnacles and enter giant blowholes and sea caves. Spot marine life in the early morning, with calm sea conditions and low sparkling sunlight that beams across the Mercury Bay coast.

Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve: Boat Trip with Snorkeling

Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve: Boat Trip with Snorkeling

Special Deal - Book onto our specialised snorkel boat tour and keep the snorkel gear for the rest of the day FREE OF CHARGE Snorkeling & Diving in and around Cathedral Cove, Hahei, Coromandel Peninsula NZ...at its BEST! Cathedral Cove Dive & Snorkel is located at the gateway to the world famous Cathedral Cove and Te Whanganui-o-Hei Marine Reserve. Operating from Hahei, we are surrounded by islands offering divers, snorkelers, and sightseers untouched and breath-taking scenery both above and under the water. Book a dedicated Cathedral Cove Snorkel Boat Tour or Dive Tour today - non swimmers welcome as we provide swimming/floating aides. Snorkel tours Hop on our boat and explore some of the great snorkeling sites around Hahei, that simply can’t be accessed from shore. There are some stunning areas of our coast, with rocky reefs and drop offs or shallow colourful plateaus teaming with life. Book in as a single snorkeler or, better still, get a group together and fill the boat. We provide top quality gear, full warm wetsuits and floatation aides for non swimmers. Drop in for a dip - there's more than one way to see the Cathedral Cove - full warm suits supplied on all snorkel boat trips.

COROMANDEL CATHEDRAL COVE & DRIVING CREEK - PRIVATE DAY TOUR

COROMANDEL CATHEDRAL COVE & DRIVING CREEK - PRIVATE DAY TOUR

Start your day with a convenient hotel pickup in Auckland CBD between 6:15 AM to 6:30 AM, ensuring you are ready 15 minutes prior. The journey begins with a drive to Kopu, where a brief 15-minute break allows for restroom use and a quick coffee stop. Continue traveling to Hahei Beach for a breathtaking boat ride to Cathedral Cove, famously featured in "The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian." This scenic adventure, lasting around 1 hours, reveals pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. *Terms & Conditions. Due to weather condition, if the boat operators cancels the trip, we will alternatively offer Hot Water Beach Tour. We don't have control over weather, and we do offer any refund on the weather condition cancellations by the boat operators. Afterward, enjoy a scenic ride to Whitianga and enjoy a delicious lunch (at your own cost) at one of the restaurants in Albert Street, Whitianga. Post-lunch, embark on the enchanting Driving Creek Railway tour, showcasing engineering marvels and artistic creations amidst the lush Coromandel Peninsula. Conclude your tour with a return to Auckland CBD via Thames, where you'll be comfortably dropped off at your hotel, having experienced a day filled with scenic beauty, historic charm, and delightful culinary and cultural experiences.

Cathedral Cove Coast and Cave Tour

Cathedral Cove Coast and Cave Tour

Our journey to the breathtaking Cathedral Cove and the surrounding marine reserve showcases the region’s stunning volcanic landscapes and diverse marine life with snorkeling and swimming opportunities. Although Cathedral Cove is one of the highlights of this tour, there is more dramatic scenery to discover on the Pacific coastline, including Orua Sea Cave, Champagne Rocks, isolated islands, and pristine sandy beaches. Throughout the journey, our professional and friendly guide and skipper will showcase their in-depth knowledge of the natural wonders and rich history of the land, providing commentary over our built-in speaker system. Your comfort is our priority, with tea and coffee available, a shower, and a toilet on board for your convenience. Our experienced staff will ensure your safety and hope to provide you with an unforgettable experience when discovering our magical coastline with us.

Auckland: Coromandel Beach, Caves & Forest Private Tour

Auckland: Coromandel Beach, Caves & Forest Private Tour

Discover the wonders of the Coromandel Peninsula, a haven for ecotourism. Explore the region's natural beauty and rich history on a guided tour. Embark on a boat ride through the marine reserves, witness volcanic scenery, ride the Driving Creek Railway, and relax at Hot Water Beach. Embark on a captivating boat ride through the Coromandel’s marine reserves, where the azure waters reveal an array of hidden gems. Navigate through enchanting coastal islands, vibrant reefs, and towering sea caves. One of the highlights is the world-famous Cathedral Cove, known for its iconic archway and stunning beach. As you glide through these waters, keep an eye out for the diverse marine life that calls this area home, including playful dolphins, curious seals, and the charming little blue penguins. While sightings of these creatures are not guaranteed, the chance to see them in their natural habitat adds to the thrill of the journey. The Coromandel Peninsula is a canvas of dramatic volcanic landscapes, best appreciated from the sea. As you approach these magnificent formations, your guide will provide insightful commentary, enriching your understanding of the region’s geological history and its unique features. Marvel at the sheer cliffs, intricate rock formations, and the powerful blowholes that have shaped this coast over millennia. After exploring the coastline, continue your adventure with a visit to the Driving Creek Railway. Enjoy a scenic 1-hour train ride that winds through native forests and tunnels, climbing steadily up the hill to the Eyeful Tower. At the summit, be captivated by panoramic views over the island-studded Hauraki Gulf and the lush Coromandel landscape. No visit to the Coromandel Peninsula is complete without experiencing the famous Hot Water Beach. Here, dig your own private pool in the sand and relax in naturally heated water. Two underground fissures release water at temperatures as high as 64°C (147°F) at a rate of up to 15 liters per minute. This mineral-rich water, brimming with calcium, magnesium, potassium, fluorine, bromine, and silica, creates a soothing and therapeutic spa experience right on the beach. Whether you’re soaking in your hand-dug pool or marveling at the phenomenon, Hot Water Beach offers a unique and memorable encounter with nature.

21 Day Grand Kiwi Experience Small Group Tour

21 Day Grand Kiwi Experience Small Group Tour

Experience the majestic beauty of New Zealand's diverse landscapes on a 21-day adventure. Take part in unique local activities along the way and end your journey in the city of Christchurch. Day 1: Welcome to Auckland- Arrival at Hostel Welcome evening - Meet your Small Group Tour driver guide and fellow travelers Day 2: Auckland to Coromandel •Explore the stunning Cathedral Cove •Relax at Hot Water Beach by digging your own spa pool Day 3: Coromandel to Waitomo •Hike through the Karangahake Gorge •Admire the magical glowworm caves in Waitomo Day 4: Waitomo to Rotorua •Explore the lush Ruakuri Reserve •Spend the night in a Māori village, where you'll learn about local history and culture •Visit Hobbiton (extra) •Discover the town and lake in Rotorua Day 5: Rotorua Free Day •Immerse yourself in the history and culture at Te Pā Tū Māori Village Day 6: Rotorua to Taupo •Walk the scenic Huka Falls walkway •Soak under a waterfall or in the naturally heated rock pools at Spa Park Day 7: Taupo Free day •Today is at your leisure; feel free to explore; you can book one of the many optional activities online via the Trip Planner. Day 8: Taupo to River Valley •Walk the trail to Taranaki Falls •Spend the day at River Valley Lodge, nestled along the Rangitikei River •Taste an organic roast dinner Day 9: River Valley to Wellington •Take in the vibrant city vibes of Wellington, New Zealand's capital Day 10: Wellington Free Day •Today is yours to do as you wish! Day 11: Wellington to Kaikoura •Board a spacious ferry for a ride across the Cook Strait •Sip on some local wine in the Marlborough region •Visit the impressive Kaikoura seal colony Day 12: Kaikoura to Christchurch •Hike the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway •Admire incredible panoramic views of Kaikoura •Discover hidden gems of Christchurch on a city-street art trail Day 13: Christchurch to Lake Tekapo •Marvel at the stars in the Dark Sky Project •Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd Day 14: Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook •Spend the day inside the Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park •Walk through the Hooker Valley track to Hooker Lake Day 15: Lake Tekapo to Queenstown •Feast on a buffet dinner with panoramic views of Queenstown at the Skyline Stratosphere Restaurant Day 16: Queenstown free day •Have the whole day to yourself and explore the wonders of Queenstown Day 17: Queenstown to Milford Sound •2 hour Milford Sound boat cruise Day 18: Queenstown to Lake Hawea via Wanaka •Take in views over Lake Wānaka from Roys Peak (weather dependent) •Visit the famous Wanaka tree Day 19: Lake Hawea to Franz Josef •Discover the Thunder Creek falls in Mt Aspiring National Park •Admire the famous mirror views of Aoraki/Mount Cook from Lake Matheson Day 20: Franz Josef •Design and carve your own Greenstone jewelry in a West Coast workshop •Take on a glacier walk Day 21: Franz Josef to Christchurch •Explore a variety of trails across Arthur's Pass •Walk the Castle Hill track •Stop at the Devils Punchbowl waterfalls

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What people are saying about Mercury Bay

Overall rating

5
(27 reviews)

Sam was a very good captain, smiling and professional. The tour was postponed by 24 hours due to the weather and it was a good choice because the crossing was very pleasant today. Maybe it would be useful to show some photos, quite large, to illustrate certain points such as the superb fish that everyone admired from the shore... the water was very clear! It was very nice!! Thank you ...

Absolutely loved this boat trip. Throughout the trip, we were well informed of the local history and felt the trip was personal thanks to the skipper and crew. Being a new business, the boat was modern and immaculate. I would definitely recommend this boat trip over all of the other boat trips provided.

The boat trip was great even though the ocean was quite choppy the boat and driver managed the conditions well. Our guide told us all about the rocks and their names plus the history of James Cook. We saw some fur seal and their pups and also saw snappers in the water. Great tour can highly recommend

It was an awesome couple of hours out on the water. Sam our skipper and guide was super friendly and knowledgeable and the coastline was just stunning. I would happily recommend this trip.

Alex was an awesome guide. he was a skilled skipper and was very knowledgeable. I highly recommend this activity