CATHEDRAL COVE BOAT TOUR
This coastline has been part of our lives for as long as we can remember
Long before Cathedral Cove became one of New Zealand’s most recognised coastal destinations, these bays and beaches were places to explore, fish and spend long summer days with family. Today, our Cathedral Cove boat tours from Whitianga let us share that same coastline we grew up loving with visitors from around the world.
Cathedral Cove and Volcanic Coast Tour
PRICE
$145 Adults | $80 Children (3-14yrs)
Children 2yrs and under are FREE
Family $390 for 2 Adults + 2 Children
Family $460 for 2 Adults + 3 Children
DEPARTURE TIMES
10.30am, 1.30pm, 4pm (times may vary)
TRIP DURATION
2hrs (approx.)
DEPARTURE LOCATION
Whitianga Wharf, The Esplanade
Our Cathedral Cove boat tours depart from Whitianga Wharf and cruise 12 kilometres of Mercury Bay coastline, taking in Cathedral Cove, Lonely Bay, Hahei, towering volcanic cliffs, secluded beaches, hidden sea caves and the protected waters of Te Whanganui-o-Hei Marine Reserve. Along the way, your local skipper shares the stories behind the coastline — its volcanic origins, Māori history, marine life, local characters and the forces still shaping Mercury Bay today.
Explore Cathedral Cove by Boat
Ocean Leopard is built for sightseeing, not just transport. Comfortable forward-facing seating, plenty of space and excellent all-round visibility mean every guest gets a great view and plenty of opportunities for photography.
The tour ventures into Orua Sea Cave, one of New Zealand’s largest accessible sea caves, where towering volcanic walls, vivid blue water and schools of blue maomao create one of the most memorable moments of the trip. Dolphins, seabirds and other marine wildlife are also regularly seen in these waters, although every trip is different.
We don’t stop for snorkelling. Instead, the full two-hour tour is dedicated to exploring more of Mercury Bay’s coastline — its hidden coves, volcanic formations, sea caves and constantly changing character.
More than a trip to Cathedral Cove, this is a chance to experience one of the Coromandel’s most spectacular stretches of coastline through the eyes of people who’ve spent a lifetime on these waters.
What to know before your Cathedral Cove boat tour
- Bookings are essential. We recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.
- Our Cathedral Cove boat tour departs from Whitianga Wharf, The Esplanade, Whitianga. Please note that pick-ups from Ferry Landing Wharf are no longer permitted.
- Please arrive 15 minutes before departure so we can welcome you aboard and run through a quick safety briefing.
- What to bring: a warm jacket, camera, sunhat and sunscreen. You're also welcome to bring refreshments.
Want to know more before you go? Read our Cathedral Cove Boat Tour: What to Expect guide for parking, weather, what to bring and other practical information.
Private Cathedral Cove Boat Tours
- Private Experience
- Perfect for Photographers
- Special Occasions
Looking for something more personal? Our private boat trips can be tailored to suit your group — whether that’s dedicated time for coastal photography, extra time at Cathedral Cove, or a slower-paced trip around Mercury Bay.
We’re also honoured to support meaningful moments such as birthdays, anniversaries or other personal ceremonies.
Private tour pricing varies depending on group size and what you’re after, so get in touch and we’ll put together something that works for you.
