![10 Best Lagoon Cruises in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands [2023]](https://cdn-fojcd.nitrocdn.com/AUevZCvvpNLjUhQllworIyFwxgzvbEXo/assets/images/optimized/rev-bd83f8f/cookislandspocketguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Boat-Lagoon-Cruise-MUST-CREDIT-LINK-CookIslandsPocketGuide.com_-974x650.jpg)
![10 Best Lagoon Cruises in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands [2023]](https://cdn-fojcd.nitrocdn.com/AUevZCvvpNLjUhQllworIyFwxgzvbEXo/assets/images/optimized/rev-bd83f8f/cookislandspocketguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Boat-Lagoon-Cruise-MUST-CREDIT-LINK-CookIslandsPocketGuide.com_.jpg "10 Best Lagoon Cruises in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands [2024]")
The Top Lagoon Cruises in Rarotonga, Aitutaki and the Cook Islands
+ What’s the Difference Between Captain Tama’s and Koka?!
The lagoon cruise is an iconic activity in the Cook Islands. From the thatched-roof boats cruising the Muri Lagoon in Rarotonga to the, quite frankly, an overwhelming array of cruises on the world’s most beautiful lagoon, the Aitutaki Lagoon, it’s fair to say that you need to do at least one lagoon cruise while you’re in the Cook Islands. We’ll help you decide which one with this list of the best lagoon cruises in Rarotonga, Aitutaki and the Cook Islands. Plus, we’ll answer the most burning question on the internet: what exactly is the difference between Captain Tama’s and Koka’s lagoon cruises?!
1. Captain Tama’s Lagoon Cruizes (Rarotonga)
Join the cheeky crew from Captain Tama’s Lagoon Cruizes for a fun day out on the Muri Lagoon and Motu Koromiri. The half-day (4-hour) lagoon cruise includes around 45 minutes of snorkelling at the Tikioki Marine Reserve where you’ll be free to swim among the giant clams, angelfish, butterflyfish, surgeonfish and much more. After snorkelling, the cruise on the glass-bottom boat crosses the Muri Lagoon to the uninhabited island of Koromiri for a barbecue lunch while you listen to the relaxing tunes of the ukuleles and drums played by your talented guides. Once you’re well and truly stuffed, kick back with a hilarious coconut and sarong-tying show with audience participation included (sit at the back if you’re shy). Learn more about the cruise, read reviews and book tickets on Viator and Tripadvisor.
Location: Tours depart from Muri Beach, Muri, east side of Rarotonga. Just look for the yellow boats!
![10 Best Lagoon Cruises in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands [2023]](data:image/svg+xml;nitro-empty-id=NzQ4OjM0Mg==-1;base64,PHN2ZyB2aWV3Qm94PSIwIDAgMTAyNCA2ODQiIHdpZHRoPSIxMDI0IiBoZWlnaHQ9IjY4NCIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj48L3N2Zz4=)
© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com2. Koka Lagoon Cruises (Rarotonga)
Almost identical to Captain Tama’s Lagoon Cruizes, Koka Lagoon Cruises also offers a fantastic half-day (4-hour) cruise on Rarotonga’s Muri Lagoon. The main difference is that the cruise departs a little earlier (10am instead of 11am for Captain Tama’s) and the ukulele band playing on the boat throughout the cruise means there’s never a dull moment. Additionally, the crew aims for a vibe that is less “cheek” and more “class”. What’s more, you will still have an awesome time snorkelling at the same marine reserve, indulging in an island barbecue on the same island, Koromiri, and watching an entertaining and impressive coconut and sarong-tying demonstration. Check out reviews and book your tour on Viator or Tripadvisor.
Location: Tours depart from Muri Beach, Muri, east coast of Rarotonga. Just look for the green and white boats!
![10 Best Lagoon Cruises in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands [2023]](data:image/svg+xml;nitro-empty-id=NzUzOjM1MA==-1;base64,PHN2ZyB2aWV3Qm94PSIwIDAgMTAyNCA2ODQiIHdpZHRoPSIxMDI0IiBoZWlnaHQ9IjY4NCIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj48L3N2Zz4=)
© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com3. Teking Lagoon Cruises (Aitutaki)
Now that we’ve exhausted the lagoon cruises in Rarotonga, the rest of the Cook Islands’ lagoon cruises are on the Aitutaki Lagoon! One of the top contenders of which is the small-group cruises of Teking Lagoon Cruises. Visit four of the lagoon’s motu (islands) and three vibrant snorkelling spots where the focus on ecology and conservation allows you to get more out of the experience. Your experience also includes a refreshing island barbecue on Maina Island, as well as a visit to Honeymoon Island and the infamous One Foot Island and its sandbank. Tours are approximately five hours, departing at 9am. Check out who we recommend this cruise for and see how it compares to all of Aitutaki’s other lagoon cruises in the 10 Best Lagoon Cruises on Aitutaki.
Location: Aitutaki, transfers are included.
![10 Best Lagoon Cruises in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands [2023]](data:image/svg+xml;nitro-empty-id=NzU4OjM1Nw==-1;base64,PHN2ZyB2aWV3Qm94PSIwIDAgMTAyNCA3NjgiIHdpZHRoPSIxMDI0IiBoZWlnaHQ9Ijc2OCIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj48L3N2Zz4=)
© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com4. Kia Orana Cruise (Aitutaki)
See much more of the lagoon than some of the larger Aitutaki lagoon cruises with Kia Orana Cruises. Join “Captain Fantastic” for an adventure on a small but quick speedboat. The cruise is the only lagoon cruise that departs from Arutanga, making seven exciting stops throughout the day. Visit where they filmed “Shipwrecked” and “Survivor” on Moturakau, stop by the famous Aitutaki sandbank, visit Tekopua then the famed One Foot Island. You’ll then cross the lagoon to Honeymoon Island, Tavake then Maina for lunch. Of course, in between are plenty of snorkelling spots. Cruises depart at 9am and operate Sunday to Friday.
Location: Aitutaki, transfers are included.
![10 Best Lagoon Cruises in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands [2023]](data:image/svg+xml;nitro-empty-id=NzYzOjM2Ng==-1;base64,PHN2ZyB2aWV3Qm94PSIwIDAgNjgzIDEwMjQiIHdpZHRoPSI2ODMiIGhlaWdodD0iMTAyNCIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj48L3N2Zz4=)
© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com5. The Vaka Cruise (Aitutaki)
Definitely one of the most photo-worthy boats cruising the lagoons of the Cook Islands, The Vaka Cruise takes place on Vaka Tiki-a-Tonga, a Polynesian-inspired double-hulled vessel. The Vaka Cruise is a popular option with day trippers to Aitutaki from Rarotonga. Those staying on the island, however, still benefit from accommodation transfers. The six-hour lagoon cruise starting at 10am offers plenty of snorkelling time with giant trevally, giant clams and all sorts of tropical fish. You’ll also set foot on One Foot Island and enjoy an island-style lunch on the boat.
Location: Aitutaki, transfers are included.
![10 Best Lagoon Cruises in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands [2023]](data:image/svg+xml;nitro-empty-id=NzY4OjMzNw==-1;base64,PHN2ZyB2aWV3Qm94PSIwIDAgMTAyNCA3NjciIHdpZHRoPSIxMDI0IiBoZWlnaHQ9Ijc2NyIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj48L3N2Zz4=)
© David Kirkland - Cook Islands Tourism6. Bishop’s Cruises (Aitutaki)
The largest boats on the Aitutaki Lagoon, Bishop’s Cruises either has you on their 16 pax boat with a minibar or their 45 pax catamaran with a minibar, changing area and toilets. The upper deck of their larger vessel allows for an elevated view of the lagoon, ideal for Instagram-worthy photos. Enjoy six hours on the lagoon including stops for snorkelling, standing on a heavenly sandbank, and making an obligatory stop at One Foot Island. Indulge in a barbecue lunch under the shade of the company’s hut on the island and spend the rest of the afternoon exploring One Foot Island at your own leisure.
Location: Aitutaki, transfers are included.
![10 Best Lagoon Cruises in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands [2023]](data:image/svg+xml;nitro-empty-id=NzczOjM0OQ==-1;base64,PHN2ZyB2aWV3Qm94PSIwIDAgMTAyNCA2ODMiIHdpZHRoPSIxMDI0IiBoZWlnaHQ9IjY4MyIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj48L3N2Zz4=)
© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com7. Kutekute Tours & Transfers (Aitutaki)
See the Aitutaki Lagoon in a whole different light on a private lagoon cruise with Kutekute Tours & Transfers. Departing in the late afternoon (usually around 4pm), their “Sunset Lagoon Cruise” takes you to a mix of exciting snorkelling spots with giant trevally, giant clams and/or the Purple Wall. You have the optional extras of twilight snorkelling and a unique water hammock float down the channel between One Foot Island and Tekopua. You’ll then enjoy a stunningly presented beach picnic platter on the uninhabited Moturakau as you watch the sunset. See more cruises like this in The Best Sunset Cruises in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands.
Location: Ootu Beach, Aitutaki, transfers are included.
![10 Best Lagoon Cruises in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands [2023]](data:image/svg+xml;nitro-empty-id=Nzc4OjM2OQ==-1;base64,PHN2ZyB2aWV3Qm94PSIwIDAgMTAyNCA3NjgiIHdpZHRoPSIxMDI0IiBoZWlnaHQ9Ijc2OCIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj48L3N2Zz4=)
© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com8. Black Pearl Charters (Aitutaki)
Perhaps more renowned in Aitutaki for their fishing charters, Black Pearl Charters also offers fantastic private charters in the Aitutaki Lagoon. Their half-day lagoon cruise hits three exciting snorkelling locations, as well as stops by the islands of One Foot Island and Honeymoon Island. Enjoy morning tea as part of the experience, as well as guided snorkelling where you’ll be explained the different fish and corals seen. All in all, Black Pearl Charters offers one of the best lagoon cruises in the Cook Islands for snorkelling. See more amazing snorkelling cruises listed in the 10 Best Snorkelling Tours in the Cook Islands.
Location: Ootu Beach, Aitutaki, transfers included.
![10 Best Lagoon Cruises in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands [2023]](data:image/svg+xml;nitro-empty-id=NzgzOjM2NA==-1;base64,PHN2ZyB2aWV3Qm94PSIwIDAgMTAyNCA2ODQiIHdpZHRoPSIxMDI0IiBoZWlnaHQ9IjY4NCIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj48L3N2Zz4=)
© CookIslandsPocketGuide.com9. Sailing Aitutaki (Aitutaki)
An alternative way to cruise the sheltered waters of the Aitutaki Lagoon is on a Hobie sailing catamaran with Sailing Aitutaki. This low impact option provides one of your best chances for spotting turtles thanks to the unintrusive boat, while those keen to try sailing for themselves can get hands-on experience with instruction from your guide, Captain Ted. The half-day trip departing from Ootu Beach at 9am (transfers included) includes visiting some motu, planting a baby coconut tree on a sandbank and relaxing with some lunch. Of course, this activity is dependent on safe weather conditions on the lagoon. The private guided experience is suitable for up to four people. See more eco-friendly tour options in the 10 Best Eco Tours in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands.
Location: Ootu Beach, Aitutaki, transfers are included.
![10 Best Lagoon Cruises in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands [2023]](data:image/svg+xml;nitro-empty-id=Nzg4OjM3NA==-1;base64,PHN2ZyB2aWV3Qm94PSIwIDAgNjgzIDEwMjQiIHdpZHRoPSI2ODMiIGhlaWdodD0iMTAyNCIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj48L3N2Zz4=)
© Turama Photography - Cook Islands Tourism10. Wet & Wild (Aitutaki)
Perhaps more known for their kitesurfing and whale swimming excursions, Wet & Wild also offers cruises on the Aitutaki Lagoon. All lagoon tours are private, with your choice of sightseeing, snorkelling, island-hopping and the unique options to try wakeboarding or inflatable tube rides off the back of the boat. Let the team know what you want to do and they’ll likely have the gear to give you an awesome alternative experience on the water. Alternatively, check out their whale swimming tours in the 7 Best Whale Watching (& Swimming) Tours in the Cook Islands.
Location: Aitutaki, transfers are included.
![10 Best Lagoon Cruises in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands [2023]](data:image/svg+xml;nitro-empty-id=NzkzOjMyOA==-1;base64,PHN2ZyB2aWV3Qm94PSIwIDAgMTAyNCA2ODMiIHdpZHRoPSIxMDI0IiBoZWlnaHQ9IjY4MyIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj48L3N2Zz4=)
© Cook Islands TourismMore About Lagoon Cruises in Rarotonga and the Cook Islands
Now that you know the best lagoon cruises in Rarotonga and the Cook Islands, here are more ways to get on the water to explore the Cook Islands:
- 10 Best Boat & Sailing Tours in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands
- 10 Best Water Activities in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands
- 10 Best Lagoon Cruises on Aitutaki
Finally, complete your bucket list with the 101 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands: The Ultimate List and plan the rest of your holiday logistics using The Best Cook Islands Travel Guide.
![10 Best Boat & Sailing Tours in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands ⛵ [2023]](data:image/svg+xml;nitro-empty-id=OTY3OjQ1MA==-1;base64,PHN2ZyB2aWV3Qm94PSIwIDAgOTAwIDYwMCIgd2lkdGg9IjkwMCIgaGVpZ2h0PSI2MDAiIHhtbG5zPSJodHRwOi8vd3d3LnczLm9yZy8yMDAwL3N2ZyI+PC9zdmc+)
![The Guide to Kitesurfing in Rarotonga, Aitutaki & the Cook Islands [2023]](data:image/svg+xml;nitro-empty-id=OTc4OjQxMw==-1;base64,PHN2ZyB2aWV3Qm94PSIwIDAgOTAwIDYwMCIgd2lkdGg9IjkwMCIgaGVpZ2h0PSI2MDAiIHhtbG5zPSJodHRwOi8vd3d3LnczLm9yZy8yMDAwL3N2ZyI+PC9zdmc+)
![The Guide to Windsurfing in Rarotonga, Aitutaki & the Cook Islands [2023]](data:image/svg+xml;nitro-empty-id=OTg5OjM4MQ==-1;base64,PHN2ZyB2aWV3Qm94PSIwIDAgOTAwIDYwMCIgd2lkdGg9IjkwMCIgaGVpZ2h0PSI2MDAiIHhtbG5zPSJodHRwOi8vd3d3LnczLm9yZy8yMDAwL3N2ZyI+PC9zdmc+)
![5 Best Kayak Hires in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands 🛶 [2023]](data:image/svg+xml;nitro-empty-id=MTA4NTozMTY=-1;base64,PHN2ZyB2aWV3Qm94PSIwIDAgMTIwMCA4MDAiIHdpZHRoPSIxMjAwIiBoZWlnaHQ9IjgwMCIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj48L3N2Zz4= "5 Best Kayak Hires in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands 🛶 [2024]")