I still remember my first glimpse of Cathedral Cove—it was on a postcard at a petrol station. Towering rock arches, crystal-clear water, and soft white sand? I thought it looked too good to be true. But as someone who often over-packs on snacks and underestimates the weather, I figured a boat tour would be the least stressful way to explore it.

Seeing Cathedral Cove from the water beats the hike any day. You get an entirely different perspective of the cliffs, sea caves, and surrounding islands. It’s a laid-back experience, with the guides often throwing in a bit of Kiwi humour along with fascinating info about the geology and history. The skipper on my tour pointed out a rock formation that looked remarkably like a dolphin, and while it was debatable, the storytelling was top-notch.

The best part of the boat tour is exploring the sea caves. The turquoise water glimmers as sunlight streams through the rock formations, creating a surreal effect. It felt like something out of a dream. Some tours also take you to hidden beaches or places you wouldn’t know existed unless you’re a local. Always ask if there’s an option to visit these spots—it’s often worth the extra cost.

If you’re planning a boat tour, a few tips can make a huge difference. Bring a lightweight waterproof jacket because sea breezes can get chilly even on sunny days. I learned the hard way to keep your phone or camera in a dry bag—splash zones are real. And even if it’s overcast, slap on some sunblock. UV rays don’t take days off.

After the cathedral cove boat tour, I parked myself at Hahei Beach for some proper downtime. It’s the perfect way to end a day, just lying on the sand, watching kayakers paddle past the cliffs, and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.