Sailing in Mercury Bay – Discover Cathedral Cove & Hidden Gems

Day Sailing Adventure – Mercury Bay (6 Hours)

There’s no better way to spend a day in the Coromandel than out on the water. Step aboard Windborne, our classic 1928 wooden schooner, and set sail for a 6-hour adventure around Mercury Bay. She’s all polished timber, wide decks, and old-school charm - the real deal, not just another tour boat.

From Whitianga Wharf we’ll head out across the bay, sails full, salty breeze in your hair, and the Coromandel coastline sliding by. Sometimes we pass Cathedral Cove (weather permitting), or other gems like Devil’s Point, Pink Beach, and the Hole in the Wall. Around midday we drop anchor in a sheltered bay - the perfect spot to swim, snorkel, or just float with a paddleboard before tucking into your picnic lunch on deck.

The rest of the day is a mix of sailing, relaxing, and keeping an eye out for dolphins, whales, stingrays, and seabirds. You can jump in and help with the sails, take the helm, or simply stretch out and let the schooner do her thing. However you spend the time, it’s six hours of sea air, good company, and Coromandel magic.

Highlights

• Six hours of sailing, swimming & exploring Mercury Bay

• Sail past Cathedral Cove, Devil’s Point & Pink Beach (weather permitting)

• Anchor in a sheltered bay for lunch, a swim & a snorkel

• BYO picnic, drinks & make the day your own

• Spot dolphins, whales, stingrays & seabirds along the way

• Hands-on sailing if you’re keen - or just kick back & relax

Why choose Windborne?

Because this isn’t your average boat trip. Windborne is a 1928 classic schooner with soul - a working piece of history that still sails beautifully today. You’re not crammed in with strangers; numbers are kept low so there’s space to breathe. Avon and Mihaela aren’t just your crew - they’re hosts who love sharing the sea and making you feel at home. Add in some wildlife, clear water, and that unbeatable Coromandel coastline, and you’ve got a day you’ll be talking about for years.

The details

• Time: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm (be at Whitianga Wharf by 9:45 am so we can stow your gear and show you around)

• Group size: Usually limited to around 16 guests for comfort 

• Includes: Free tea, coffee, cookies & filtered water on request

• BYO: Bring your own picnic lunch, snacks, soft drinks, beer or wine - it’s your day, your style

  
  

What to bring

• Swimwear & towel (for that midday swim & snorkel stop )

• Sunblock, hat & sunglasses

• Warm layer - even sunny days can feel cool on the water

• Camera - for dolphins, coves & sunset-worthy views

• Seasickness medication if you’re prone to it

  
  

Sail, swim, explore, and relax - all in one unforgettable Coromandel day. Come join us aboard Windborne and see Mercury Bay the way it’s meant to be seen: from the deck of a classic schooner.