Updated: 1 st March 2026
Join Ocean Leopard Boat Tours in Whitianga for a comfortable and scenic coastal cruise to Cathedral Cove and along the spectacular Mercury Bay coastline. Departing from Whitianga Wharf, this modern rigid inflatable vessel combines stability, protection under a canopy and the ability to travel swiftly between coastal highlights.
Explore sea caves, towering rock formations and the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve while enjoying expert local commentary and opportunities to spot dolphins, seals and seabirds along the way.
Based in Whitianga, Ocean Leopard Boat Tours offers a relaxed yet exhilarating coastal cruise through Mercury Bay to Cathedral Cove and beyond. Departing daily from Whitianga Wharf and Ferry Landing, this rigid inflatable vessel combines comfort, stability and excellent visibility for exploring one of the Coromandel’s most spectacular coastlines.
Cruise past Hahei Beach and Lonely Bay, enter the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve and discover towering rock pinnacles, volcanic blowholes and dramatic sea caves. Marine wildlife sightings are common, with opportunities to see dolphins, seals and seabirds along the way.
With sun protection under a canopy and an experienced crew focused on safety and commentary, Ocean Leopard delivers a comfortable and informative way to experience Cathedral Cove from the water.
Price: $140 Adult | $80 Child (confirm)
Family: $380 (2 Adults + 2 Children)
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Departure: 10:30am
Departure Point: Whitianga Wharf
Explore 12 kilometres of rugged volcanic coastline on Ocean Leopard’s Cathedral Cove & Volcanic Coast Tour from Whitianga. Cruise past nearby islands and stunning beaches including Lonely Bay, Cooks Beach and Hahei before arriving at the spectacular Cathedral Cove — famously featured in The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian.
Travel through the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve, where abundant marine and bird life thrive along the dramatic coastline. Get up close to towering rock pinnacles, powerful blowholes and impressive sea caves, including Orua Sea Cave — one of the largest sea caves in New Zealand accessible only by boat.
Throughout the journey, your local guide shares insights into Mercury Bay’s rich history, geology and coastal heritage, delivering an informative and relaxed coastal cruise experience.

Ocean Leopard’s Cathedral Cove boat trip explores 12 kilometres of Mercury Bay coastline, visiting Lonely Bay, Hahei and the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve. Guests see dramatic rock pinnacles, sea caves including Orua Sea Cave, volcanic formations and abundant marine life, all from a comfortable rigid inflatable vessel.
The Cathedral Cove & Volcanic Coast Tour lasts approximately two hours and departs daily at 10:30am from Whitianga Wharf and Ferry Landing.
The tour costs $140 per adult and $80 per child, with a family option available for $380 (2 adults and 2 children).
Ocean Leopard Tours departs from Whitianga Wharf and Ferry Landing in the Coromandel Peninsula.
Highlights include Cathedral Cove, Orua Sea Cave, towering rock pinnacles, blowholes, nearby islands and beaches such as Lonely Bay and Cooks Beach, plus marine and bird life within the marine reserve.
Ocean Leopard operates a modern rigid inflatable boat capable of speed, but the tour is designed as a relaxed coastal cruise focused on sightseeing, wildlife and comfort under a protective canopy.