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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.
professional and friendly crew
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.
830 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Relax53249607187,
Dec 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Scenic cruise with interesting historical highlights sprinkled in. Wonderful views thru the glass bottom boat and the opportunity to snorkel off the stern was fantastic. 5 stars to Captain Brak and deckhand Alison 👍🏼👍🏼



Michael S,
Dec 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Heaps of fish, stunning rock formations and crystal clear waters. Commentary throughout the trip was interesting, cathedral cove was a real highlight.

Cathy C,
Dec 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Awesome cruise, well worth it. The crew were very knowledgeable and friendly. Would definitely recommend this cruise
kratzerm,
Nov 30, 2025
- Review from Viator
Great experience. The cove is so beautiful and everything else around it. Our crew mates were so friendly and shared plenty of information.
harini5241,
Nov 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Had a change of plans due to last-minute cancellation of another 2-hour cathedral cove cruise as a result of bad weather forecast, with no regrets! Would recommend future travelers to take an antinausea tablet prior. Knowledgeable tour guide. Took wonderful photos of colourful and interesting caves, and of course, Cathedral Cove. Glass bottom boat provides a unique view of marine life with the opportunity to swim/snorkel for adventurous travelers.






Freedom281677,
Nov 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Had a wonderful couple of hours seeing the coastline including cathedral cove, saw lots of fish and learned a lot of natural history. Was an enjoyable day.
Leanne B,
Nov 15, 2025
- Review from Viator
Make sure you have sunscreen, swimwear and goggles ! Great scenery and informative local knowledge of history of the area










Donna P,
Nov 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
The boat trip is definitely worth doing for sure. It takes you to the most popular spots with commentary and lots of photo opportunities that otherwise would be difficult and long to get to. Even provided a sick bag when I lost my sea legs! Great to see the fish through the glass bottom and even a stingray! Well organised and I felt safe.



Hayley A,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
The glass floor was so clear, it was easy to see the fish below! Seeing the cathedral cove by boat was so relaxing. We also loved the big cave
Travelingfamilyx6,
Oct 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Fabulous tour along the coast. The two crew members did a great job explaining the various stops. Initially, we planned to walk to Cathedral Cove, however on the boat tour not only did we see amazing views of Cathedral Cove, but many other beautiful areas as well,





Operated by Glass Bottom Boat Whitianga