About Ocean Leopard Tours
Ocean Leopard Tours operates relaxed Cathedral Cove scenic boat tours from the Whitianga Wharf, carrying small groups along one of the most photographed coastlines in New Zealand. Their distinctive canopy-covered vessel offers shade and comfort while still getting passengers close to the sea caves, blowholes and towering rock stacks of the Mercury Bay coast.
The popular two-hour tour follows the cliffs to Cathedral Cove inside the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve, slipping into caves such as Orua and pausing at scenic highlights for photos and wildlife spotting. Departures run daily through the season, with the crew narrating the geology, Maori history and marine life of the area. The covered boat makes the trip well suited to families, older travellers and anyone wanting a comfortable cruise rather than a high-adrenaline ride.
Run by a local team with deep familiarity of the coast, Ocean Leopard has built a strong reputation for friendly guiding and reliable, scenic departures. It is an easy, accessible way to see Cathedral Cove from the water without a long hike or a fast bumpy boat.
