Kayak, Refreshments Included

Hahei: Cathedral Cove Kayak Tour - Refreshments included

★ 5.0 39 reviews

from $99 per person

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Duration: 3 hours
Meeting point: Hahei Beach, Hahei Beach Road
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
On board: Coffee or tea included
Run by: Cathedral Cove Kayak Tours

Overview

This three-hour guided kayak trip leaves straight off Hahei Beach and paddles into the Te Whanganui-o-Hei Marine Reserve. You use double sea kayaks with a professional guide alongside, following the coastline past beaches, islands and rock gardens. Along the way the group can pass through sea caves, watch for local marine life and, when conditions allow, try kayak sailing with the wind behind. The centrepiece is a landing on the sand at Cathedral Cove itself, where the crew serves cappuccinos, hot chocolates and cookies before you get free time to swim, wander or just lie on the beach.

No paddling experience is needed. The operator states that trips are tailored to suit all abilities and that the tour is family friendly, and guides give a safety briefing plus any instruction needed before you set off. Dry bags are supplied for cameras and phones, safety gear is included, and the guide gives commentary on the area throughout.

The tour suits first-timers, families and confident paddlers alike, and one reviewer reported a great trip even in winter. It is an outdoor adventure activity in a natural coastal environment, so real risks like capsize and exposure to the elements are disclosed up front.

Where this tour sits among 3 tours in Cathedral Cove Sea Kayak Tours listed here (from-price per person, USD)

Kayak, Refreshments Included (this tour)$99
Classic Kayak, Drink Included$116.32
Full-Day 6-Hour Kayak$177

What's Included

Included

Professional & experienced guide
Double sea kayaks
High quality kayaking equipment
Safety gear provided
Dry bags provided for cameras/phones
Refreshments included at Cathedral Cove
Full commentary during the tour
Kayak the Te Whanganui-o-Hei Marine Reserve
Land on the beach at Cathedral Cove

Itinerary

Meet at Hahei BeachThe meeting point is 2 Hahei Beach Road, Hahei. Tours start and finish at Hahei Beach, and there is no hotel pickup.
Safety briefing and launchYour guide gives a safety briefing and any instruction or training needed, then you fit safety gear and load dry bags before launching in double sea kayaks.
Paddle the marine reserveKayak through the Te Whanganui-o-Hei Marine Reserve along beaches, islands and rock gardens, with chances to pass through sea caves, see marine life and try kayak sailing when conditions suit.
Land at Cathedral CoveThe group lands on the beach at Cathedral Cove, where cappuccinos, hot chocolates and cookies are served.
Beach time at the CoveEnjoy free time to swim, explore or relax on the sand before rejoining the kayaks.
Paddle back to HaheiReturn along the coast to Hahei Beach, where the three-hour tour finishes.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will help you arrive prepared, since this is a beach-based activity with refreshments served on the sand.

Sea kayaks off Hahei toward Cathedral Cove.

What to bring. Bring beachwear, and come dressed for a morning or afternoon on and around the water.
No experience needed. The operator states that no previous experience is required and that trips are tailored to all abilities. Several reviewers mentioned guides being helpful to people with little kayaking background, including plenty of instruction and local history on the water.
Pace and group feel. It is a guided tour with commentary throughout.
Refreshments on the beach. One traveller was even served a flat white on the sand.
Kit and cameras. Dry bags for cameras and phones are provided, along with safety gear and double kayaks. That makes photos from the water straightforward, though you should still secure anything valuable.
Weather matters. The operator may contact you before departure, so check your email and phone the evening before. Several reviewers credited good weather for their enjoyment, and one said the trip works well in winter too.

Ready To GoCheck availability →

Common issues. This is an adventure activity in a natural coastal environment, and the operator's risk disclosure lists capsize, sea-sickness, exposure to the elements and encounters with wildlife among the real risks. The operator may need to reach you the evening before, so travellers who do not check email or phone risk missing updates. There is no hotel pickup, so you must make your own way to Hahei Beach, and a waiver link emailed before arrival must be completed online before the tour. Nothing beyond the inclusions is covered; check the booking page for any exclusions.

Common Questions

How Long Is The Cathedral Cove Kayak Tour?

The tour runs for three hours, starting and finishing at Hahei Beach. That includes the paddle through the marine reserve, the landing at Cathedral Cove and time on the beach.

Is Anything To Eat Or Drink Included?

Yes. Refreshments at Cathedral Cove are included, specifically cappuccinos, hot chocolates and cookies served on the beach. You do not need to buy anything extra for this part of the trip.

Is Hotel Pickup Included?

No. Pickup is not included, and the meeting point is 2 Hahei Beach Road, Hahei 3591, New Zealand. You need to make your own way there for the start of the tour.

Do I Need Kayaking Experience?

No. No previous experience is required, tours suit all levels and abilities, and the trip is family friendly.

What Should I Bring?

Beachwear is the listed requirement. Dry bags are provided for cameras and phones, and all kayaking and safety equipment is included, so you mainly need clothing you are happy to get wet in.

What Is The Cancellation Policy?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Also note that the operator may contact you before departure, so complete the emailed waiver beforehand and check your email and phone the evening before your trip.