Rarotonga: Muri Lagoon Glass Bottom Cruise & BBQ Lunch

Summary

Snorkeling, island barbecue, music & Cook Islands culture in one half-day

You’ll cruise Rarotonga’s Muri Lagoon by glass bottom boat with local guides, snorkel among giant clams and tropical fish, then feast on fresh BBQ lunch right on Motu Koromiri. There’s live island music, coconut demos, laughter—and you’ll probably leave feeling lighter than when you arrived.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped onto the glass bottom boat at Muri Beach just as the drumming started—honestly, it caught me off guard how quickly the energy shifted. The lagoon looked almost fake, all those wild blue shades. Our guide (I think his name was Tama) grinned and handed out masks, cracking a joke about Charlie the eel being “the real boss” here. I laughed but also kept an eye out for him once we slid into the water—Charlie’s huge, by the way. The clams were even bigger than I expected. Fish everywhere, some so close I could feel them brush my arms. I forgot about time for a bit there.

Back on shore at Motu Koromiri, someone was already grilling fish over open fire—the smell made my stomach growl embarrassingly loud (Tama noticed and winked). Lunch was simple but perfect: smoky fish, salads with coconut, fresh fruit that tasted like sunshine. There was a coconut husking demo too; I tried to join in and nearly dropped the thing on my foot. Everyone laughed, including this older woman who showed me how to tie a pareu properly (I still mess it up at home). The NSA stringband played in the background—kind of loose and happy music that made people dance without needing much encouragement.

I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed so fast. Maybe it’s something about the salt air or just how everyone treats you like an old friend here. Even when the sun got hot overhead and I realized I’d forgotten sunscreen on my knees (rookie move), it didn’t really matter. We lingered longer than planned before heading back across Muri Lagoon—the water still sparkling under us through the glass bottom as if nothing had changed at all.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Muri Lagoon cruise and BBQ lunch

• Arrive at Muri Beach
• Welcome with Cook Island drumming
• Board glass bottom boat
• Cruise to marine reserve
• Snorkel with tropical fish and clams
• View marine life through glass bottom
• Enjoy fresh fish BBQ lunch
• Watch coconut climbing and husking show
• See pareu tying demonstration
• Listen to NSA stringband on Motu Koromiri

Top questions

Is snorkeling equipment provided on the Muri Lagoon cruise?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included in your tour.

Does this tour include lunch?

Yes, a buffet BBQ lunch is served during the cruise experience.

Are hotel transfers included in this tour?

No, but return hotel transfers can be arranged for an extra fee paid on the day.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?

Yes, it’s suitable for all ages and fitness levels; infants must sit on an adult’s lap.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible.

Can I bring alcoholic beverages on board?

No alcohol is provided but you’re welcome to bring your own drinks.

What time does the Muri Lagoon cruise depart?

The boat departs from Muri Beach at 11am; arrive 30 minutes early.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your half-day includes pickup options from your hotel (for an extra fee), glass bottom boat cruise from Muri Beach with all snorkeling gear provided, a fresh open-fire BBQ lunch right on Motu Koromiri island with salads and fruit, plus cultural demos like coconut husking and pareu tying—all wrapped up with live Cook Islands music before returning to shore.