The stunning Whitianga coast beckons travelers with its remarkable boat tours and cruises. These water excursions are simply one of the best ways to experience this corner of New Zealand. We particularly love the laid-back Arvo of Goodness Chilled Out Sail (3.5 hours), which perfectly captures the region’s relaxed vibe while showcasing dramatic volcanic coastlines. The 2-hour Cathedral Cove cruise gets our thumbs up for its efficiency and natural beauty, while the glass-bottom boat tours offer a unique peek into the underwater world without getting wet. For a quieter experience, the Whitianga River & Waterways Cruise provides a peaceful escape through scenic backwaters. Let’s look at our favorite boat tours in detail.
Key Points
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The Arvo of Goodness Chilled Out Sail offers a 3.5-hour half-day sailing tour from Cooks Beach, Coromandel, with activities like swimming, snorkeling, and scenic views of Cathedral Cove.
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The Cathedral Cove 2 Hour Boat Cruise from Whitianga Wharf showcases the volcanic coastline and provides opportunities to spot dolphins, whales, and orcas.
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The Glass Bottom Boat Whitianga Cathedral Cove Cruise allows close observation of the vibrant marine ecosystem, with snorkeling equipment available and a mammal watch permit.
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The Cathedral Cove & Caves Boat Tour With Snorkeling is a 2-hour high-speed boat tour from Whitianga that includes rock jumping, snorkeling, and a music experience in Orua cave.
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The Whitianga River & Waterways Cruise provides a tranquil journey through the landscapes, with guided commentary, restroom facilities, and opportunities to spot local wildlife and landmarks.
Arvo of Goodness Chilled Out Sail (3.5hrs)
The “Arvo of Goodness Chilled Out Sail” is a half-day sailing tour that departs from Cooks Beach, Coromandel.
Guests can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and scenic views of cliffs and rock formations at Cathedral Cove. The tour emphasizes sustainability through wind power, with minimal environmental impact.
Onboard amenities include bean bags and smoked seafood with beverages. The tour is private, with a maximum group size of 12 for an intimate experience.
Guests can expect a moderate level of physical fitness, as well as safety measures and guidelines from the attentive crew.
With an overall rating of 5.0 from 38 reviews, this tour offers great value for the price, which starts at $86.72 per person.
Read our full review: Arvo of Goodness Chilled Out Sail (3.5hrs) Review
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Whitianga: Cathedral Cove 2 Hour Boat Cruise
Offering a captivating 2-hour cruise, the Whitianga: Cathedral Cove Boat Cruise immerses guests in the stunning natural beauty of Mercury Bay.
Departing from Whitianga Wharf, the tour showcases the area’s volcanic coastline, including the world-famous Cathedral Cove, part of the Te Whanganui a Hei Marine Reserve.
Along the way, travelers may spot dolphins, whales, and orcas in their natural habitat, while an engaging guide provides entertaining commentary.
With flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this cruise is an excellent choice for couples, groups, and families exploring the Coromandel Peninsula.
Featuring 4.8/5 ratings from over 500 reviews, it’s no wonder this tour is considered one of the best boat experiences in Whitianga.
Read our full review: Whitianga: Cathedral Cove 2 Hour Boat Cruise Review
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Glass Bottom Boat Whitianga Cathedral Cove Cruise
Departing from the same Whitianga Wharf as the Cathedral Cove Boat Cruise, the Glass Bottom Boat Whitianga Cathedral Cove Cruise offers a unique perspective on the stunning marine reserve.
The boat’s glass bottom provides clear views of the diverse underwater life, allowing travelers to observe the vibrant marine ecosystem up close.
With snorkeling equipment available, guests can enjoy 20-minute excursions for an even more immersive experience.
The tour also includes a mammal watch permit, enabling potential encounters with dolphins, whales, orca, and seals.
Suitable for all types of travelers, the cruise features knowledgeable guides, scenic vistas, and a fast boat for an exciting journey.
Read our full review: Glass Bottom Boat Whitianga Cathedral Cove Cruise Review
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Whitianga: Cathedral Cove & Caves Boat Tour With Snorkeling
Explore the stunning Cathedral Cove and its surrounding caves on this thrilling 2-hour boat tour from Whitianga.
Aboard the specialized Cave Cruzer, you’ll embark on a high-speed adventure to witness volcanic pinnacles, blowholes, and sea caves.
The optional activities, including rock jumping and snorkeling, allow you to fully learn about the natural wonders.
Enjoy the music experience in the second-largest sea cave, Orua.
Suitable for ages 2 and above, this tour provides an unforgettable experience, with positive reviews praising the engaging tour guide, Brian.
Snorkeling gear, food, and drinks are included, making this an all-inclusive adventure.
Book now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Whitianga: Cathedral Cove & Caves Boat Tour With Snorkeling Review
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Morning Glory Chilled Out Sail (3.5hrs)
The Morning Glory Chilled Out Sail (3.5hrs) provides a serene and leisurely way to explore the stunning Coromandel Peninsula.
This 3-hour 30-minute cruise sails around Mercury Bay and Gemstone Bay, offering breathtaking views of Cathedral Cove’s natural landscapes. Guests can enjoy refreshments like fresh brew coffee and baked snacks, as well as opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in the Pacific waters.
With a limited capacity of up to 12 people, this small-group experience allows for a personalized and relaxing atmosphere aboard a wind-powered ship.
The departure time is 9:15 AM, and the tour includes instant mobile ticketing for convenience.
Read our full review: Morning Glory Chilled Out Sail (3.5hrs) Review
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Ocean Leopard Tours – Cathedral Cove Boat Tour
What better way to experience the natural splendor of Cathedral Cove than a relaxing boat tour with Ocean Leopard Tours?
This approximately 2-hour cruise along the coast offers stunning views of caves, cliffs, arches, and rock formations. Guests can enjoy a knowledgeable local guide‘s insights on the area’s marine biodiversity while snorkeling gear is available for those interested.
Although there are no restrooms on board, the convenient instant mobile tickets and language support in English make this an ideal activity for busy itineraries.
With a maximum capacity of 16 travelers, this engaging and informative experience showcases the scenic beauty of the marine reserve.
Read our full review: Ocean Leopard Tours – Cathedral Cove Boat Tour Review
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Whitianga River & Waterways Cruise in Whitianga
Departing from the vibrant Esplanade in Whitianga, the Whitianga River & Waterways Cruise offers visitors a tranquil journey through the region’s picturesque landscapes.
Throughout the tour, guests can enjoy guided commentary and stunning views of the river and its surrounding natural beauty.
Restroom facilities, refreshments, and comfortable seating are provided, ensuring a comfortable experience.
The cruise is suitable for all ages and groups, with the opportunity to spot local wildlife and landmarks along the way.
Guests are advised to arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time, and a full refund is available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Whitianga River & Waterways Cruise in Whitianga Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?
Most cruise lines allow passengers to bring their own food and drinks on board, but it’s best to check the specific policies of the cruise you’re taking. Many have restrictions or additional fees for outside items.
Are There Any Age or Health Restrictions for the Boat Tours?
Most boat tour operators have age and health restrictions to ensure passenger safety. Children may need to be accompanied by an adult, and guests with mobility issues may be required to notify the operator in advance.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Boat Tours?
The cancellation and refund policy varies by operator, but many offer full refunds for cancellations made within 24-48 hours of the tour. Some may charge a fee for last-minute cancellations. Customers should check the specific policy before booking.
Can I Customize the Itinerary of the Boat Tour to My Preferences?
Many boat tour operators allow customers to customize the itinerary to their preferences, within reason. Customers should inquire about the level of flexibility offered and any restrictions when booking their tour.
Is There Any Discount or Package Option Available for Multiple Boat Tours?
Many tour operators offer discounted packages or bundles for guests who book multiple boat tours. These package deals can provide significant savings compared to booking each tour individually. Customers should inquire about any available discounts or package options when planning their activities.
The Sum Up
Whitianga offers a variety of cruises and boat tours that allow visitors to explore its stunning coastline and natural wonders. From chilled-out sails to glass-bottom boat tours, there’s something to suit every interest and budget. Whether you’re looking to see Cathedral Cove, the Whitianga River, or even go snorkeling, Whitianga’s diverse range of boat tours provides an excellent way to experience the beauty of this coastal town.