Award winning Cathedral Cove boat cruises

Join Ocean Leopard Tours for a world-class scenic boat tour from Whitianga to Cathedral Cove and beyond. Cruise Mercury Bay’s spectacular volcanic coastline in comfort, visiting iconic spots like Hahei Beach, Lonely Bay and the Te Whanganui o Hei Marine Reserve. You’ll see towering rock pinnacles, volcanic blow holes, abundant marine life, huge sea caves and of course, the world famous Cathedral Cove.

We offer maximum comfort and sun protection on our tour and your safety is our priority. Our smaller boat means a more personal, relaxed experience with expert local commentary and great photo opportunities, as we get up closer to these extraordinary locations.

Ocean Leopard Tours departs daily from Whitianga Wharf, a 30min drive from Hot Water Beach and Hahei.

Gift Vouchers are also available for those searching for experienced based gifts which can be so much more meaningful and enjoyable.
If you’re looking for things to do in Whitianga, Coromandel, it’s hard to beat a Cathedral Cove boat trip with Ocean Leopard Tours…

Ocean Leopard Tours - Cathedral Cove scenic boat cruise

TOUR DETAILS

Trip Duration: 2hrs (approx.)
Departure Times: 10.30am, 1.30pm, 4pm (times may vary)
Departure Location: Whitianga Wharf, Esplanade Rd
Price: $140 Adults, $80 Children (1-14yrs), Children under 1 are FREE, Family $380 for 2 Adults + 2 Children

Embark on an exclusive, world-class journey with our Cathedral Cove boat tour. This unforgettable scenic cruise takes you along 12km of rugged, volcanic coastline, exploring Cathedral Cove, Lonely Bay, Cooks Beach, Shakespeare Cliff, and Hahei. You’ll get an up-close look at Cathedral Cove, the iconic location from The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian, and learn about the region’s rich history and geological wonders. With fewer passengers on board, you’ll have a front-row view of the Cove and all the natural beauty the region has to offer, without having to compete with a crowd.

As you cruise through the Te Whanganui-o-Hei Marine Reserve, you’ll encounter an abundance of marine life, making this an ideal tour for nature lovers. Your experienced local guide will share fascinating insights into the geological history that shaped the Coromandel coastline. Your tour will take you alongside towering rock pinnacles, beautiful blowholes, and the incredible Orua Sea Cave – one of New Zealand’s largest sea caves, only accessible by boat.

Our Cathedral Cove Boat Tour offers the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation and comfort, making it a must-do activity for visitors to Whitianga and the Coromandel. Whether you’re looking to explore Cathedral Cove, enjoy the breathtaking scenery, or learn about the region’s unique natural wonders, this tour is the ultimate way to experience the beauty of Mercury Bay and the Coromandel coastline.

BOOKING

Please note: More departure times are available through the peak summer period. If you don’t see your desired time please CALL as we may be able to cater for your requested time.

CONTACT US

For all general enquiries or to book please contact us direct:

Ocean Leopard Tours

Phone: 07 866 4990
International: +64 7 866 4990
Mobile: 027 22 66 480

Email: info@oceanleopardtours.co.nz

Payment: On board we accept:

Our 2 hour Cathedral Cove boat tours leave from Whitianga Wharf daily.

THE BOAT

The Ocean Leopard is a purpose-built tour boat designed for comfort, visibility, and all-weather protection — so you can enjoy the journey as much as the destination. From Whitianga to Cathedral Cove and beyond, it’s the most comfortable way to experience a scenic boat tour on our stunning coastline.

With a focus on quality, service, and a more personal experience, it’s the ideal Cathedral Cove boat tour for the discerning traveller.

JUMP ON BOARD AND YOU’LL FIND:

A deep V shaped hull that ensures a soft, cushioned ride in all sea conditions.
Amazing visibility from comfortable, forward facing seats with back rests.
Safe and easy boarding suitable for the mobility impaired and elderly.
A canvas roof providing protection from the harsh New Zealand sun or adverse weather.
Clear side screens that drop down to provide full weather protection if needed.
Maritime New Zealand compliant safety measures and equipment including state-of-the-art, lightweight inflatable life jackets.

FAQ

Can babies come out on the tour?
Yes, we have special life jackets suited for infants. Babies often fall asleep on the boat with the rocking motion and sound of the engine.

Can I bring food/refreshments on the boat?
Yes, you are most welcome to bring snacks and drinks on the tour with you.

Do we offer snorkelling?
We do not offer snorkeling or swimming on our tours due to safety reasons.

How do I pay?
The best way to secure your seat is to head to our booking page. The great thing about booking online is that you’ll receive a detailed email explaining everything you need to know about the tour including departure points. Alternatively we have credit card and eftpos facilities on the boat. Cash is also welcome.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
No, however if the mobility impaired passenger can make their way onto the boat each seat has a comfortable and secure back rest. Please call us to discuss further if required.

Will I get sea sick?
Due to the stability and open nature of the boat seasickness is uncommon. If you are susceptible to seasickness we advise you to take a motion sickness tablet just in case.

Will I get sea sick?
What happens if the trip is cancelled due to weather or sea conditions?
You will be contacted on the morning of the tour and will receive a full refund if you’re not able to reschedule your tour.

What happens if the trip is cancelled due to weather or sea conditions?
You will be contacted on the morning of the tour and will receive a full refund if you’re not able to reschedule your tour.

Where can I board the boat?
You will board the boat at the Whitianga Wharf on The Esplanade, Whitianga. (We are no longer able to pick up from Ferry Landing Wharf)

What shall I bring?
Make sure you bring refreshments, a warm jacket, camera/binoculars, sunhat and sunscreen.

Where is your office?
We do not have an office space however all enquiries can be made by phone or email.

Will I see dolphins or whales?
These amazing animals frequently visit the area and we always hope to see them however we cannot guarantee you will encounter them on your tour as they are transient and unpredictable.

Is there a toilet on the boat?
We don’t have a toilet on the boat but there are toilets very close to the wharf at both Whitianga Wharf and Ferry Landing Wharf.

Do we land on the beach at Cathedral Cove?
We stay on the boat throughout the tour however we will get you close enough to Cathedral Cove to see right through it.

Do we get off at Hotwater Beach?
No, we stay on the boat throughout the tour and see Hot Water Beach from a distance.

ABOUT US

We’ve been proudly running our family-owned business here in Whitianga since 2010. When you love what you do as much as we do, aiming for excellence becomes second nature. At Ocean Leopard, we’re always refining our tours to deliver what we believe is the best Cathedral Cove scenic tour experience in the region.

WHY CHOOSE US?

Highly ranked on TripAdvisor every year since 2011
“Highly recommended” by Lonely Planet Guide
Winner of Destination Coromandel’s Service Excellence Award
Proud holders of a Department of Conservation Mammal watching permit
As an owner operated business we take a lot of pride in what we do. We strive to deliver the best boat trip in Whitianga.

We’ve got the best boat!