Join us for a unique eco tour experience.
Explore stunning volcanic coastline above the surface and the magical underwater world of the marine reserve below the surface.
Glass Bottom Boat Tour Highlights
2 Hour tour time
Sit back and enjoy all the spectacular scenery over a 2 hour tour. Visit all the coastal highlights while learning about the area.
Cathedral Cove
Sea it by Sea. Come with us and visit one of the most iconic locations in the world.
Glass Viewing
Our tour is the ONLY tour where you can view through glass panels and view the sea life from the comfort of our boat.
OUR TOUR TIMES
8am
(December to February daily and on request all other times of the year)
10:30am
(All year round)
1:00pm
(All year round)
3:30pm
(December to February daily and on request all other times of the year)
Tours depart daily from the Whitianga Wharf.
Meet your vessel at the Whitianga Wharf 15mins prior to your departure time. Tours are approximately 2hrs long.
There is parking and toilet facilities available at the wharf.
What you might see….
Cathedral Cove and its fabulous white sandy beaches, iconic native New Zealand trees and incredible rock formations.
Stunning volcanic coastline including sheer cliffs, towering pinnacles, blowholes and sea caves such as Orua Sea cave.
Look through the glass panels to see a diverse amount of marine life including red snapper, red moki, leatherjackets and schools of demoiselles and blue mau mau. Look closely through the kelp forest to spot stingrays, crayfish and octopus.
On the surface keep your eyes peeled for blue penguins, sea birds and marine mammals such as dolphins, orca and seals.
What you might learn…
How our volcanic coastline was formed, the geology of the landscape and stunning rock features.
Our town is full of history that you will learn, such as why the town was established here, the arrival of Captain Cook and his discovery while in Mercury Bay, dive into our Maori history with Kupe’s first landing and settlement along with todays culture.
Let our team of marine scientists teach you about the marine life you can see through the glass, our precious marine eco system and the marine reserve. We share our core belief on sustainability and maintaining a healthy ocean.

What you will love…
The small number of passengers onboard mean our tours are personalized offering an intimate experience.
All our crew are highly qualified and professional yet still maintain a fun and friendly atmosphere onboard.
Our tour is unique and the only Whitianga boat tour to offer you a window into our underwater wonderland.
Our vessels are comfortable and designed to keep you protected from the New Zealand elements.
You chose your level of fun. You can sit back and watch the marine life through the glass, or chose to take the plunge and snorkel amongst the fish.
Adult
Per adultChild
3-15 years oldFamily
2 Adults, 2 ChildrenFAQ
Where does the boat depart from?
Where can I buy my ticket?
Do your vessels have wheel chair or limited mobility access?
Should we book in advance?
Do we get off the boat at Cathedral Cove?
Will we see dolphins or whales?
Do we go into caves?
Do we have to go snorkeling?
Do I need to be a good snorkeler?
Where can I park my car/campervan?
What do I need to bring?

©2020 Glass Bottom Boat Whitianga