Living in New Zealand means endless opportunities for adventure, and one of my favourite escapes has to be Cathedral Cove. While many people opt to trek the famous trail, I discovered a far more luxurious way to experience this stunning spot—by chartering a private boat. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to visit one of NZ’s most iconic locations in style, let me walk you through my experience of a Cathedral Cove charter cruise.

Choosing the Charter Experience

It was a rainy Wednesday when I sat at my desk, staring out the window, dreaming of my next escape. Cathedral Cove had been on my mind for a while, but the thought of hiking there with dozens of tourists wasn’t appealing. That’s when I stumbled across the idea of a charter cruise, and I was immediately intrigued. Why walk when you can sail?

Top tip: When booking a Cathedral Cove charter, look for companies that offer bespoke experiences. Many of them allow you to customise your trip, making it a tailored experience based on what you want—whether it’s a half-day cruise or a full-day exploration.

Setting Sail to Cathedral Cove

The day of the trip, the sun was shining, and I met the captain at Hahei Beach, where our luxury boat was anchored. Stepping aboard, I was greeted with a glass of bubbly, and the relaxation began immediately. There’s something about being on the water that makes you feel like you’re already on holiday, even if it’s just for the day.

Personal anecdote: As we sailed toward Cathedral Cove, I couldn’t help but feel a bit smug. We passed by groups of tourists walking the long trail, while we were gliding across the water in comfort. It’s not every day you get to play the VIP, but this cruise made it feel effortless.

The Cove from a New Perspective

What makes the cathedral cove charter cruise so special is the ability to experience this natural wonder from the sea. When you arrive by foot, it’s easy to get caught up in the crowd and miss the little things. But arriving by boat? It’s a completely different experience. Our captain anchored just off the shore, and we had the option to swim ashore or stay on the boat to admire the view.

Top tip: Even if you’re tempted to stay on the boat, take a few moments to swim ashore. Walking through the archway at Cathedral Cove, knowing you’ve arrived in such a unique way, is a memory you won’t forget.

Snorkelling and Exploring

After soaking in the beauty of the Cove, we took advantage of the boat’s snorkelling gear to explore the marine life around the area. The waters around Cathedral Cove are crystal clear, and we saw schools of fish, vibrant coral, and even a playful seal.

Personal anecdote: I’m not the world’s best snorkeller, but the waters were so calm and inviting that even I felt like a pro. There was something magical about floating just beneath the surface, watching the underwater world go about its day.

A Secluded Picnic Stop

One of the highlights of the charter cruise was stopping at a nearby, lesser-known beach for a picnic. With no other people in sight, it felt like we had our own private slice of paradise. The captain had prepared a gourmet lunch featuring fresh seafood and local produce, and we sat on the sand, soaking up the sun and savouring the moment.

Top tip: If you’re planning a special occasion—like an anniversary or birthday—a private charter cruise is an unforgettable way to celebrate. Most charters offer catering options, so you can enjoy a luxurious meal while admiring the view.

Sunset Cruise Back

As the afternoon turned into evening, we slowly made our way back to the marina. Watching the sunset from the boat was one of those perfect moments that you don’t experience often. The golden light reflecting off the water, the peaceful rocking of the boat—it was the kind of day that reminded me why I love living in New Zealand.

Final Thoughts: If you’re looking to experience Cathedral Cove in a way that few people do, a private charter cruise is the way to go. It’s a blend of adventure and relaxation, and the ability to customise your trip makes it feel truly personal. If you’re in the Coromandel region and want a day to remember, this is the way to do it.