Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Our unique tour is the only one to show you the marine life without getting wet. The glass panels provide a clear window to spotting marine life. Our crew are passionate about the ocean, conservation and our marine reserve.
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Join us for a 2hr eco tour to explore above and below the surface in the marine reserve and along our stunning volcanic coastline. View spectacular scenery including Cathedral Cove, sea caves, towering pinnacles and blowholes. Sit back and watch and abundance of marine life through the glass panels with the option to take the plunge and snorkel amongst the fish. Equipment supplied. Learn all about the marine life and geology within the marine reserve. Our professional and friendly crew have extensive knowledge of the area and provide a fun and factual commentary on our Maori and European history. Let the passionate crew teach you about our amazing marine reserve, our ocean and sustainability. Our mammal watch permit allows us to sustainably interact with any dolphins, whales, orca and seals we see while on tour. Our tour exclusively offers the chance to see above and below the surface and is dedicated to offering the best experience on the water. With excellent ratings and service awards, bookings are essential. Tours depart daily from the Whitianga Wharf.
professional and friendly crew
990 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Sean Q,,Feb 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
We have a wonderful time aboard with Eliza and Katie. Very enjoyable way to spend an afternoon seeing some incredible sights.
Quest02529985778,,Feb 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Incredible views and such friendly and helpful guides ,JD and Jayde- thank you! Would definitely recommend!
Curiosity11477932964,,Feb 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great Experience, my partner and I chose this rather than doing the walk to Cathedral Cove. At $150 each it was well worth the money, Brian and Jackson were a knowledgeable duo who provided a memorable experience. We arrived 15 minutes early as recommended, which also was when the rest of our tour group arrived so we got to leave 15 minutes early. Learning about the history of the area, and the geological features was wicked, I enjoyed seeing the patterns left by the lava flow. The water was a beauty at the end, and the fish were a great sight, particularly those in the reserve.


Lela P,,Feb 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had Brian and Jackson guiding our tour and they were very knowledgeable and very welcoming. We were wanting something that wasn’t too extreme but still a lot of fun and this was definitely it. Was a great experience! Highly recommend
Mackenzie T,,Feb 18, 2026
- Review from Viator
Tour was great! Super fun, went to Cathedral Cove and plenty other stops! Brian and Jackson were great and took very good care of us all!


louxxash,,Feb 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Fantastic trip, really friendly and knowledgeable guides, Georgia and Jade. We saw all the sites along the coast, great view of the fish from the glass bottom boat. We were very well looked after and would highly recommend
Jacquie F,,Feb 13, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Friendly and helpful crew - very knowledgable and lots of tips re things to do and see in the area. Great mix of people on the boat and amazing scenery. Thoroughly enjoyed experience and would highly recommend.
T8104ZWdavidg,,Feb 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Super trip with Dylan and Alison. Lovely hosts. Great to see all the fish under the glass bottomed boat. Very informative about the protected marine reserve the area generally.
Navigator48108238040,,Feb 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
It was an awesome experience and a highly professional and personable team. JD and Alison kept us safe, We saw beautiful cliffs, beaches and caves, along with reserves with various fish. Snorkelling was great as was the glass bottom viewing. We loved it all and were grateful to get out amongst it all.
Marlys U,,Feb 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
Good sights, fun little snorkel and some good information. Great as a first experience, but less so for my sister as her second.

Operated by Glass Bottom Boat Whitianga