Explore 12 km of rugged volcanic coastline in Mercury Bay, visiting nearby islands and stunning beaches including Lonely Bay, Cooks Beach, and the spectacular Cathedral Cove. Admire the bay’s towering pinnacles, giant blowholes, and huge sea caves.

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
Covid-19 precautions: Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
Reserve now & pay later: Reserve now & pay later to book your spot without any charges today. Learn more
Duration 2 hours: Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide: English

Highlights

Cruise to the world-famous Cathedral Cove
Listen to entertaining live commentary from your local guide
Explore the coastline and see giant blowholes, pinnacles and huge sea caves
Keep a lookout for dolphins, whales or orcas

Full description

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.

Includes

2-hour scenic cruise
Cathedral Cove viewing

Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off

Covid-19 precautions

You must book this activity online because the ticket office is closed

Safety measures in place

All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned

Traveler requirements

All participants who are over 12 years old must present proof of full vaccination

Meeting point

All tours depart from the Whitianga Wharf, Esplanade - 14 Esplanade, Whitianga 3510, New Zealand - Be sure to arrive 15 minutes prior to departure.

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Important information

What to bring

Comfortable shoes
Sunglasses
Towel
Jacket

Know before you go

Pickup can be arranged from the Ferry Landing Wharf by request
Make sure you bring refreshments, a warm jacket, camera/binoculars, sunhat and sunscreen
Be sure to arrive 15 minutes prior to departure
If you plan on swimming or snorkelling wear your swimwear under your clothing and bring a towel
To give you maximum time in the water we discourage the use of wetsuits

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.9 /5

based on 105 reviews

Review summary

Guide
4.8/5
Transportation
4.6/5
Value for money
4.7/5
Safety
5/5

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I booked this tour after realizing I wasn't up to walking the distance to the Cathedral Cove from Hahei. I enjoyed myself and I got to see more of the coastline and the caves. I saw wildlife such as seal, penguin, colourful big fishes lazily swimming and seabirds. It was an informative tour on a comfortable padded seat despite the "four seasons in one day" weather. Do wear a windjacket or a sweater - it does get windy out there.

May 1, 2022

Fantastic boat trip, the guide was very knowledgeable, no need to go on the opposition's boat (glass boat) as the water is so clear in the reserve marina you look over the side and can see the fish! The boat trip was worth every cent and more. Would highly recommend.

May 3, 2021

Justin at the helm was knowledgable friendly supportive and the ultimate professional. He handled all the passengers and their various questions and needs brilliantly. Perfect tour to do ... see the sights ... hear the history .... feed the fish ... then swim and snorkel with them. Justin was bread and born on this coast and will share his boy to man story’s with you of his adventures. I think he might be a merman

February 4, 2021

Whitianga: Cathedral Cove 2 Hour Boat Cruise

Whitianga: Cathedral Cove 2 Hour Boat Cruise

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