Spend a relaxed afternoon on a wind-powered catamaran from Flaxmill Bay to Cathedral Cove. Swim or snorkel in the marine reserve, sip locally produced beer or wine, and soak in Coromandel’s coastal geology on a low‑impact 3.5‑hour cruise.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The catamaran rocks like a slow promise in Flaxmill Bay, its hull a bright fingerprint against the blue of Mercury Bay. Guests step into an afternoon that moves at wind’s pace: beanbags rigged on deck, a cooler of local beer and New Zealand wine within reach, and a crew who split their time between trimming sails and pointing out limestone fingers of coastline. Horizon and coastline trade places as the yacht slips away from the beach opposite 1039 Purangi Road, and within minutes the peninsula’s story—rock, reef, reef-girt coves—unfurls.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Light to moderate fitness—able to climb into a dinghy and move around a moving deck; swimmers should be comfortable in open water
Wildlife
History
Cathedral Cove sits within Te Whanganui‑A‑Hei Marine Reserve; the area has long been significant to local Māori and more recently protected to restore fish and kelp habitats.
Conservation
The operator uses sail power to reduce fuel use and follows marine reserve rules—avoid touching or removing marine life and use reef-safe sunscreen.
Reserve your spot on the Arvo of goodness Chilled out Sail (3.5hrs) today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive early for dinghy transfer
Final check-in is 1:30pm (15 minutes before departure); the boat anchors offshore and guests are transferred by inflatable dinghy—arrive on time to avoid delays.
Bring a windproof layer
Even on sunny afternoons the bay can be breezy; a light waterproof shell keeps you comfortable during sail maneuvers.
Know your swim comfort
Snorkel at Gemstone Bay is optional—if you plan to jump in, be a confident swimmer and use the provided snorkel gear.
Protect the marine reserve
Do not touch or stand on the reef; follow crew briefings about where to swim and how to re-board the dinghy safely.
Light windproof jacket
Shields against spray and late-afternoon chills while sailing.
all
Swimwear and quick-dry towel
Essential for optional snorkeling or a post-anchor swim at Gemstone Bay.
summer
reef-safe sunscreen and hat
Protects skin while avoiding damage to marine life in the reserve.
summer
Waterproof pouch for phone/camera
Keeps valuables dry during dinghy transfers and when photographing from deck.
all