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
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 2 hours
- Check availability to see starting times.
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English
Experience
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
Customers must book this activity online because the ticket office is closed
Safety measures in place
- All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
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.
Open in Google Maps ⟶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
