Top Whitianga Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises

While many travelers come to Cathedral Cove to relax on the beach, this is a marine reserve so there’s so much to see beneath the surface of the ocean. Take a look on a glass bottomed boat ride, and jump in with a snorkel if you want to get up close to the fish. Learn all about the history of this important area while relaxing and enjoying the views of the rock formations and pinnacles.

Relax during a chilled out half-day private sailing tour along the coast, setting sail from Cooks Beach in the Coromandel. Swim or snorkel at the marine reserve, where you can see colorful fish. Anchor at Cathedral Cove for a while to enjoy views of the cliffs and rocky outcrops. Lounge on the onboard bean bags with some smoked seafood and a cold beer or wine.

The abundance of volcanic activity that has shaped New Zealand’s dramatic landscape is also why the coastline around Whitianga is home to imposing sea caves and twisting lava tubes. Take a journey through these stunning natural landscapes on this boat tour around the rugged coast while keeping an eye out for the seasonal wildlife that roams the region.

Set sail on a captivating 2-hour journey across the stunning Coromandel Coast, unveiling the iconic Cathedral Cove and the enchanting Orua Sea Cave. Guided by expert skippers, this scenic cruise immerses you in the breathtaking beauty of Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve, where you can swim, snorkel, and discover unique volcanic islands. Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and families alike, this cruise promises unforgettable experiences and spectacular views of Mercury Bay's coastline. - 2-hour scenic cruise exploring Cathedral Cove and Orua Sea Cave - Swim and snorkel in the pristine marine reserve - Expert skippers providing insightful commentary on local history - Daily departures from Whitianga Wharf, perfect for all ages

Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the coast of Cathedral Cove in a comfortable boat with plenty of shade—ideal on a hot summer’s day. Learn about the biodiversity of the marine reserve from your guide while admiring the caves, cliffs, arches, and rock formations. Depart from Whitianga Wharf in the morning or afternoon. This tour does not include snorkeling.

Join local guides, on a 2-3 hour tour covering over 25km of continuous volcanic coastline. Our custom-built vessel will take you places no other tour can, allowing you to get closer and experience more. Enjoy 360° views of spectacular sea caves, twisting lava tubes, towering volcanic arches and seasonal wildlife. Covers in lush native bush and rich in NZ history this is a must do for any Coromandel traveller!

Many parts of Coromandel’s beautiful volcanic coastline can only be accessed by boat, so join a small-group guided boat tour of the coast around Cathedral Cove that land-based travelers miss. Cruise inside Orua Sea Cave, one of New Zealand's largest sea caves, and see blowholes and larger boats can’t reach. Listen to the acoustics in sea caves and spot wildlife near Lonely Bay, Shakespeare Cliff, and Cooks and Hahei beaches.

Explore the tranquil beaches and rocky coves of the Coromandel Peninsula on this morning cruise from Whitianga. Admire the dramatic natural landscapes of Cathedral Cove, and dive in to swim and snorkel in the cool Pacific waters. See views you can’t access from land. Enjoy a relaxing and leisurely cruise, sailing on a wind-powered ship with a limited number of passengers and crew on-board for an intimate experience.

Some people just like to lounge on a beach, but if you’re seeking a more active way of exploring the Cathedral Cove area, this small-group adventure is ideal. Take a thrilling speedboat tour along the coastline, zooming up to cliffs and blowholes and into caves. The open-roofed boat allows for close-up views. Snorkel at the marine reserve for views of the underwater world, if you like.

Join the local expert guide to explore the captivating Coromandel Peninsula, a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural history. This popular tour features a gentle walk through the historic paths of an old gold mining town, leading to an old mine, adorned with enchanting glow worms. Discover the rich flora and fauna of the region as the guide shows you artifacts such as Kauri gum, wood, and special rocks. Visit picturesque white sand beaches, dramatic cliffs, and ancient Maori and early European sites. Experience the unique phenomenon of Hot Water Beach (tide permitting), and take an optional stroll to Cathedral Cove. Fun and informative, this tour is perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. - Discover the scenic highlights of the Coromandel Peninsula - Walk through nature to visit an historic gold cave with glow worms - Experience coastal views, caves, European and Maori cultural sites - Learn about local treasures, including gold and crystals, from your guide.