Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Join local guides for an authentic 2-3 hour tour covering over 25km of continuous volcanic coastline. Our unique purpose built vessel is the perfect viewing platform for anyone looking for a more personable experience.
This rugged volcanic coastline covered in lush native bush is abundant in NZ history, spectacular sea caves, twisting lava tubes, outer Islands, towering volcanic arches and seasonal wildlife.
We take you places no other tour can, allowing you to get closer and experience more!
Service animals allowed
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.
Duration:2 hours
Operating Schedule:Departing from the Whitianga Wharf Daily. 8am, 11am, 2pm and 4.30pm
Use of Snorkelling equipment
Swim wear and Towel
118 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Ulrike M,,Jan 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
This experience was great and, besides the beautiful coast line, Ash, the guide of the tour made all the difference. He was so nice and compassionate and caring. He wanted to make it unforgettable for each and everyone on the trip. He is also an excellent boat driver which made all the difference getting in the caves.
samjam801,,Jan 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
This was a great experience. We got so close and in so many caves. I went on a similar tour in a glass bottom bigger boat a few years ago and this was sooo much better. We even got to jump of a cliff at the opening of a cave into the water. The guides a so good and so knowledgeable. He and his wife worked with marine life for years before settling and having kids. Highly, highly recommend
KerrinV2,,Jan 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
We really enjoyed this. Ash our driver/tour guide was so friendly and knowledgeable. We saw a huge school of Kahawai the sea birds were feeding on. Snapper in the marine reserve. Cathedral cove and many caves of interest. Some of our group swam from the boat to Cathedral cove, and we picked them up on the other side. I would do this again if I get the opportunity. Thanks Ash.
madeleineo2026,,Jan 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
BOOK THIS TOUR! We had an awesome time with Ash who runs this tour. You'll get to see the Cathedral Cave where we got to jump in and swim to the beach ans walk the cave. It's a lot of people on the beach and seeing it from the ocean was amazing. He also took us to several other beautiful caves and spots where you could jump into the water if you wanted. We can tell it's more of a personalised tour than the other boat companies. Ash has great knowledge of the area and the history and is highly skilled driving the boat.







Jeremy E,,Dec 21, 2025
- Review from Viator
This was an awesome experience, way better than advertised. Ash, our captain, is very knowledgeable and was providing a lot of information about the formation of the rocks and caves that we would have never have learned about otherwise. We got to take a quick dip in one of the coves which was great (a bit cold but not awful). An unexpected major highlight of our trip!
Safari22784449159,,Dec 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Went by boat to the Cathedral cove, nice trip. Definitely worth it. Nice walk on the beach and especially enjoyed the view!!!

Grace T,,Dec 3, 2025
- Review from Viator
Great experience! I can't remember the name of our guide but he grew up in the area and the fact that this tour was led by a local made it stand out. A highlight was when he took us into a cave where local kids have tied ropes to the roots of the trees overhead so they can climb up and jump off an overhang in the cave at high tide. For obvious safety reasons we did not get to do that as part of this excursion, but my boyfriend and I swam out to that cave later that day at high tide and jumped the cliff ourselves, which was really special. I also appreciated that it was a small group. Would recommend to anyone who doesn't have a ton of time in the area and wants to still admire the landscape, get some snorkeling in, and tour the area.
Dan L,,Mar 31, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had a great experience which I would highly recommend to anyone wanting to see Cathedral Cove, Hot Water Beach and numerous sea caves. The boat took ten passengers and was small enough to go into most of the sea caves in the area. At the end of the ride, we snorkelled in a beautiful area of the marine reserve and saw lots of fish. The captain is also the owner of the boat and company. He grew up in the area and is very knowledgeable about the geology, history and culture of the Whitianga and Coromandel area.
197leeannt,,Mar 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Had the best few hours out with Ash of Sea Cave Adventures today. Super friendly in a genuine way. No monotonous commentary but thoughtful and intelligent insights as we went to suit the group. Felt utterly safe and the caves he was able to take us into were incredible. Highly recommended and more than value for money. Thank you for such a memorable trip and for all the info you shared to help us get the most out if the rest of our trip in the area. Gold.



155carolynv,,Mar 10, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Ash of Sea Cave Adventure is a gem. He took us to a number of sea caves, explaining his Māori culture signifigant to the area. He is also very knowledgeable about marine life. But it is Ash himself, a good kind soul, that makes this tour a must.
Operated by Sea Cave Adventures