Cathedral Cove & Sea Caves: Eco Catamaran Cruise & Snorkeling

Summary

Cathedral Cove coastlines caves and marine life by eco boat

You’ll ride an eco-friendly catamaran from Whitianga to Cathedral Cove and Orua Sea Cave, hearing local stories as you go. Snorkel in clear Pacific waters (gear included), then warm up with tea or coffee onboard — there’s even a fresh-water shower and restroom for comfort. Expect moments of real quiet, laughter with your guide, and a coastline that lingers in your mind long after you’re back on land.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I’d always seen photos of Cathedral Cove and wondered if it could really feel as peaceful as it looked. Turns out, gliding out from Whitianga on this big, quiet catamaran — Mercury Star, they called her — is the kind of calm that sneaks up on you. The air had that salty-sweet smell you only get this far from city stuff. Our skipper, Tom (who’s lived here since forever), pointed out the volcanic cliffs before I even noticed them. He laughed when I tried to pronounce “Orua” right — still not sure I nailed it.

We drifted close to the sea cave and Tom cut the engines so all you could hear was water slapping gently against the hull. There was this weird echo inside the cave — almost like the rocks were humming back at us. I got goosebumps for a second. Later, we anchored near Cathedral Cove itself. The water was colder than I expected but clear enough to spot little blue fish darting under my feet while snorkeling. Someone offered me tea after (I swear hot drinks taste better when you’re wrapped in a towel with wet hair). The boat had a warm shower too — small thing, but honestly made changing so much easier.

I didn’t expect to learn so much about the coastline’s history just from drifting along it. Tom told stories about Champagne Rocks and those tiny islands dotted offshore; he knew which ones had nesting birds this time of year. It felt good to just listen and not rush anywhere for once. On the way back, sun hit the deck in that sleepy late-afternoon way — everyone went quiet for a bit except for one kid giggling at seagulls fighting over crumbs. Sometimes I still think about that view through salt-streaked sunglasses.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cathedral Cove and Marine Reserve Tour

• Board ecofriendly Mercury Star catamaran
• Enjoy smooth, stable boat ride
• Listen to guide's natural commentary
• Visit Cathedral Cove and marine reserve
• Snorkel and swim in marine reserve
• Explore Orua Sea Cave and Champagne Rocks
• View isolated islands and sandy beaches
• Use onboard shower and toilet facilities
• Enjoy tea, coffee, and refreshments
• Return to Whitianga harbor

Top questions

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this Cathedral Cove tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included during the cruise.

Does the eco catamaran have restrooms onboard?

Yes, there is a restroom and changing room available on Mercury Star.

Are refreshments included during the trip?

Coffee, tea, and water are available for purchase onboard.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces on the catamaran are wheelchair accessible.

How long is the boat ride from Whitianga to Cathedral Cove?

The exact duration isn’t specified but includes stops at key coastal sites along the way.

Can infants or small children join this activity?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed onboard.

Will we visit other places besides Cathedral Cove?

Yes, you’ll also see Orua Sea Cave, Champagne Rocks, islands, and beaches along the coast.

Is there a shower available after swimming?

Yes, there’s a warm fresh-water shower onboard for use after snorkeling or swimming.

What’s included

Your day includes use of snorkeling gear, access to restrooms and changing rooms on board Mercury Star, plus coffee or tea available to purchase during your trip. After swimming or snorkeling near Cathedral Cove or Orua Sea Cave, you can rinse off with a warm fresh-water shower before heading back toward Whitianga’s harbor.