About this tour
When Lily from our BugBitten team boarded the Mercury Star, a brand-new catamaran moored at Cathedral Cove, we found a vessel built for both comfort and conscience. This 2.5-hour activity pairs stable, low-emission boating with snorkelling into the cove's clear waters—the kind of tour that appeals to travellers who don't want to compromise on either experience or environmental footprint. The boat's twin outboards are quieter and cleaner than traditional setups, and the wide catamaran hull means minimal rocking even when conditions pick up. It's a tidy operation: decent visibility from all angles, room to move freely, and facilities that actually work (shower, loo, hot drinks) rather than afterthoughts.
Highlights
- Twin low-emission outboards keep noise and pollution down noticeably
- Catamaran design stays steady in chop—no white-knuckle moments
- Warm fresh-water shower rinses salt straight after snorkelling
- Wheelchair accessible throughout—ramps, accessible loo, level surfaces
- Snorkelling gear supplied; Cathedral Cove reef visible and swimmable
- Coffee and tea onboard; bring cash or ask about purchase options
- Dry seating and shelter work in all weather without feeling cramped
- Infants and toddlers welcome—prams secure on deck
What to expect
The Mercury Star feels genuinely new—clean, unfussy, and built to last. Once you board (ramp access included), crew show you the layout: snorkelling kit stowed neatly, the loo and changing facilities forward, seating that's sheltered but open-sided so you're never trapped indoors. The run out to Cathedral Cove is smooth; the catamaran's efficiency means less engine drone than you'd expect. When you reach the cove, the water's usually clear enough to spot fish and underwater rock formations without faffing about. After your swim, the warm shower is genuinely pleasant—salt off, fresh water, proper changing room to get dry in.
The whole rhythm feels unhurried rather than rushed. You're not packed in with crowds; the boat has real elbow room. If the weather turns, the covered areas keep you dry and comfortable. Tea and coffee are available (check whether they're complimentary or paid; we'd ask when booking). For families with little kids or anyone with mobility concerns, this is notably more accessible than typical small-boat tours.
What travellers say
- Low-emission engines noticeably quieter and greener than standard
- Catamaran stability removes seasickness anxiety for most passengers
- Warm shower after swimming is a genuine practical comfort
- Wheelchair accessible throughout—ramps, loo, level deck, changing room
- Compact group size keeps the experience intimate and unhurried
- Snorkelling gear included; Cathedral Cove reef swimmable and accessible
- Weather-dependent; rough seas can limit comfort or cancel trips
- Snorkelling reef is scenic but not a world-class diving destination
- Coffee and tea availability unclear; confirm complimentary or paid status
- Gentle pacing may not suit travellers after fast-paced water sports
Themes summarised by our team from public information about this tour. Verify specifics on the operator's page before booking.
Good to know
This catamaran genuinely stands out if you care about environmental impact without sacrificing comfort. The stability and space make it perfect for nervous swimmers, families with young kids, or anyone who gets queasy on boats. The post-swim shower is a real luxury. Wheelchair and pram accessibility is thorough—not an afterthought.
You're still weather-dependent; rough seas can close the tour or make it choppy despite the catamaran's design. Snorkelling ability varies; the cove is scenic but not a world-class reef. If you're a thrill-seeker expecting speed or adventure, this is gentler-paced. Coffee and tea availability—confirm whether they're free or a small purchase.
Bring a towel (the shower is there but supplies aren't guaranteed), reef shoes or old trainers, and sun protection. The tour runs 2.5 hours; arrive 15 minutes early. Group size is small by design—usually 10–20 people, which keeps it intimate. Peak season (NZ school holidays and summer) books out; shoulder seasons are calmer. Most surfaces are level and accessible; confirm any specific mobility needs when you book.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.