We had an unforgettable time on the Raro Reef Sub! While Rarotonga offers breathtaking ocean views from almost every corner of the island, there is something truly magical about being out on the Pacific and looking back. Seeing the island’s lush, jagged peaks from a sea-level perspective gives you a whole new appreciation for its beauty.
Below, we’ve shared all the details of our journey so you can plan your own underwater adventure:
- What Will You See?
- Where Does It Go?
- How Long Is The Tour?
- How Much Does It Cost?
- Is It Kid-Friendly?
- Booking Tickets
- Rarotonga With Kids
What to Expect: Rarotonga Reef Sub
There’s plenty to see beyond the reef in Rarotonga. On the Reef Sub, as soon as you leave the wharf you head towards “The Boiler.” This is the iconic engine block of the shipwrecked SS Maitai.
As you move around the coral gardens surrounding the wreck, keep your eyes peeled for:
- Giant Trevally: Massive, silver guardians of the reef that frequent the area.
- Tropical Fish: A kaleidoscope of colours darting through the coral.
- Cool Others: Turtles, stingrays, eagle rays, and moray eels.
- Seasonal Giants: If you visit during Whale Season (August – November), you may even spot Humpback whales breaching in the deep blue.
Location & Departure
The Rarotonga Reef Sub departs from Avatiu Harbour. The tour focuses on the waters just outside the harbour mouth, navigating around the remains of the Maitai shipwreck.
Pricing & Bookings
It is highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
| Passenger Type | Price (NZD) |
| Adults | $69 |
| Children (3–15 years) | $39 |
| Infants (2 & under) | FREE |
How to Secure Your Spot:
- Phone: Call +682 55 901 (your accommodation host can easily assist with this).
- Email: Send an inquiry to book your preferred time.
- In-Person: Visit the team at Avatiu Harbour to check for last-minute availability.
Tour Duration & Schedule
The tour lasts between 1 hour 15 minutes and 1 hour 30 minutes—the perfect length to see the sights without the kids getting restless.
Departure Times (Sunday to Friday):
- Morning: 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM
- Afternoon: 2:00 PM & 4:00 PM (All departures are subject to weather conditions.)
Getting There
You can find the vessel docked at Avatiu Harbour. It is a short, scenic 5-minute walk west from the famous Punanga Nui Markets.
Is the Reef Sub Child-Friendly?
Absolutely! Our kids loved the Raro Reef Sub!
I was slightly anxious they might feel seasick down below deck in the submarine part of the vessel. But they loved it and didn’t want to come up!
- The “Cool” Factor: Our kids loved the novelty of climbing the ladder down into the hull to view the ocean floor through the glass.
- Safety First: The boat travels at a slow, steady pace and is equipped with plenty of handrails and secure seating.
- Comfort: While some parents worry about seasickness in the lower cabin, most children find the experience so engaging they don’t want to leave!
Tip: The boat feels safe as it travels slowly and has enough seats for the passengers it takes, making it a stress-free experience for parents with toddlers.
More Things to Do with Kids in Rarotonga
Rarotonga is a natural playground for families.
Having lived here , we’ve explored every corner of the island—here are our absolute favourite kid-friendly activities:
Sun, Sand, and Sea
- Discover the Best Swimming Beaches: With crystal-clear lagoons all around the island, you’re spoiled for choice. To find the safest and most vibrant spots for little snorkellers, check out our Guide to Rarotonga’s Best Swimming Beaches.
- Ariimoana Reef or Ridge Walks: Join local guides Kura and Jacopo for an educational adventure. It’s a fantastic way for kids to learn about marine biology and island life firsthand. This is our favourite and most recommend tour in Rarotonga!
- Rongohiva Speed Boat: For families seeking a bit of a thrill! This high-speed tour heads beyond the reef and, if you’re lucky with the season, offers a great chance for whale watching.
Inland Adventures
- Hike to “The Needle”: Take on the famous Cross-Island Walk. It’s a trek through lush jungle and across rivers that ends with a spectacular view of the ocean.
- Hospital Hill: This is a great – short – walk in Rarotonga to do with kids. Perfect for active kids who love to explore.
Culture and Nightlife
- Te Vara Nui Cultural Show: Immerse the family in Cook Islands culture. This over-water show features high-energy drumming, traditional dancing, and a delicious buffet dinner that even picky eaters will enjoy.
- Muri Night Markets: A must-do for an easy, outdoor dinner. The atmosphere is buzzing, and the food is local and affordable.
Read More From Rarotonga
- A Reef Walk In Rarotonga With Ariimoana.
- Raemaru Mountain: The Easiest Climb On Rarotonga?
- Hiking The Needle: Rarotonga’s Famous Cross Island Walk.
- 20 AWESOME Things To Do In Rarotonga With Kids!
- A Morning At Punanga Nui Market, Rarotonga.
- How To Get Your Scooter License In Rarotonga.
Links For Your Travels in Pacific & Beyond
These are the companies we use and can recommend for planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. It is easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere online.
- Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world. Everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Make sure you have insurance before embarking on travel anywhere in the world!