Black Pearl Charters
Black Pearl Charters
5
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Monday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Sunday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Full view
About
Deep sea fishing, Private lagoon/snorkelling tours, spearfishing in Aitutaki.(All snorkelling is guided and includes the outer reef)
Aitutaki, Cook Islands
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
444 reviews
Excellent
439
Very good
4
Average
1
Poor
0
Terrible
0
PAUL B
Wollongong, Australia7 contributions
Sep 2023 • Friends
We spent 4 days fishing with Mike on the Black Pearl. What a professional and knowledgeable fisherman. Mikes safety presentation was the most in depth and on point that I have experienced from any skipper all over the planet.
The fishing was great, Mike asked what we wanted to catch then tailored our days around fishing the best time of day for the right species. We caught plenty of fish and lost some of the larger ones as well. The fish of the trip was Jim's 21kg dolphin fish captured on 20lb spinning gear, but our group of 4 all caught nice dollies and Gt with some picturesque oddballs' thrown in the break up the day. Lunch was plentiful and delicious. The boat was always cleaned, fueled, bait in the live well and ready to go every day. This is a very professional out fit and i highly recommend Mike to anyone wanting to fish Aitutaki.
The fishing was great, Mike asked what we wanted to catch then tailored our days around fishing the best time of day for the right species. We caught plenty of fish and lost some of the larger ones as well. The fish of the trip was Jim's 21kg dolphin fish captured on 20lb spinning gear, but our group of 4 all caught nice dollies and Gt with some picturesque oddballs' thrown in the break up the day. Lunch was plentiful and delicious. The boat was always cleaned, fueled, bait in the live well and ready to go every day. This is a very professional out fit and i highly recommend Mike to anyone wanting to fish Aitutaki.
Written December 17, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hey Paul, thanks for the review mate, always appreciated and helpful in letting others know what they can expect. It was a pleasure meeting you all and taking you out for the 4 days. Say hi to the boys, have a great xmas and new year and stay safe in 2024. Best wishes. Mike
Written December 17, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Potovalka2020
Postojna, Slovenia17 contributions
Dec 2024 • Couples
Booking our Aitutaki lagoon adventure was a breeze—Mere made the process seamless with her quick responses and helpful info. On the day, we were lucky to have Leo as our guide, who combined knowledge, kindness, and a great sense of humor to make the experience unforgettable. The snorkeling? Absolutely top-notch—think vibrant coral and curious fish with no crowds in sight! If you’re looking for a peaceful, personal way to explore the lagoon, skip the packed tours and go this route. Pure paradise!
Written December 31, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
K_and_K212
Hawaii4 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
Wonderful service and a truly memorable experience. Everything from the easy booking and perfect timing of Mere's pickup to Mike's extensive knowledge and flexibility created an incredible afternoon on the water for my wife and I.
The day started off grey and rainy, and we weren't sure what would happen, as we boarded the White Pearl. Yet Mike knew exactly where to look and was able to find spots where we had bright sunshine and uncrowded, private adventures.
He tailored the afternoon to exactly what we wanted to see and try. We toured motus, walked the landscape, experienced wildlife, floated, snorkeled, fed fish, and enjoyed Mere's phenomenal coconut bread along with fresh fruit and drinks. We got in everything we wanted, and it never felt rushed or hurried.
Mike had everything we needed onboard, and even took pictures for us while we were in the water. The attention to detail was perfect, as were the recommendations to sample local foods, and the follow up afterwards to see if we had found what we were looking for.
We would highly recommend Black Pearl for anyone looking for a unique, personalized experience. There are plenty of options to crowd into much larger boats and follow each other to the same photo opportunity/barbecue. We watched them all from a distance while we had some really beautiful spots to ourselves. If you want to do it right, there's no other way to go!
The day started off grey and rainy, and we weren't sure what would happen, as we boarded the White Pearl. Yet Mike knew exactly where to look and was able to find spots where we had bright sunshine and uncrowded, private adventures.
He tailored the afternoon to exactly what we wanted to see and try. We toured motus, walked the landscape, experienced wildlife, floated, snorkeled, fed fish, and enjoyed Mere's phenomenal coconut bread along with fresh fruit and drinks. We got in everything we wanted, and it never felt rushed or hurried.
Mike had everything we needed onboard, and even took pictures for us while we were in the water. The attention to detail was perfect, as were the recommendations to sample local foods, and the follow up afterwards to see if we had found what we were looking for.
We would highly recommend Black Pearl for anyone looking for a unique, personalized experience. There are plenty of options to crowd into much larger boats and follow each other to the same photo opportunity/barbecue. We watched them all from a distance while we had some really beautiful spots to ourselves. If you want to do it right, there's no other way to go!
Written October 23, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hey guys
Thank you so much for taking the time to write this extensive review of your time on board the White Pearl with Mike. Our lagoon is certainly second to none and can be enjoyed any way you choose to. We like to do this with no crowds, and we were extra pleased you certainly enjoyed what we offer.
Take care of yourselves, stay safe and hope to see you again some day.
Regards
The Black Pearl Crew
Mike, Mere and Leo
Written October 27, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
sarahbroomhall
2 contributions
Jul 2024 • Family
We did an afternoon snorkelling tour which was offered in place of our booked whale tour as there was not yet the whale numbers around to warrant a trip. I appreciated the communication, and also the offer of a different trip instead. Our family of 3 loved the tour. The guide/Skipper was friendly and helpful and encouraged my 10yr old to venture in with the giant trevelly. I totally recommend this as a great option to see the lagoon at your own pace and without the crowds. Great for kids as if they are less confident you can spend more time where you want. We will definitely be back.
Written July 22, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Petrina
Byron Bay, Australia3 contributions
Jun 2024 • Family
We booked an afternoon experience exploring the lagoon and snorkeling. Leo was our skipper and he was a wonderful host. Having a private charter meant we could curate our experience and how long we stopped at each spot and get away from the crowds from bigger charter vessels. We used their snorkeling gear, it was perfect and no fogging or leaking masks! Thanks Mere, Mike and Leo for a magical afternoon, it’s been the highlight of our visit ❤️
Written June 29, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mattia and Aurelia
5 contributions
Nov 2022 • Couples
We should give these guys ten ratings as we did two fishing charters over two weeks and both times they nailed it. We booked a month ahead and straightaway we got an email with tips on the suitable gear for fishing in Aitutaki. On the day of the charters, they picked us up, they had plenty of snacks and drinks ready for us and we really felt like we were part of the planning process.
If you know what you want and the weather allows it, Mike and his crew are the guys for the job.
Super flexible, Mike will do whatever he can to get you what you are after or tell you straightaway if it’ s not possible without fooling around.
We wanted to fish for GTs and some good eating fish and in both cases that’s exactly what we got. Amazing! Sadly the season wasn t the best for tuna and mahi mahi which only means we will come back for more.
Great music on board, black pearl is your ultimate charter for fishing in Aitutaki.
Meitaki Mike, Mere and Leo
We’ ll see you soon
If you know what you want and the weather allows it, Mike and his crew are the guys for the job.
Super flexible, Mike will do whatever he can to get you what you are after or tell you straightaway if it’ s not possible without fooling around.
We wanted to fish for GTs and some good eating fish and in both cases that’s exactly what we got. Amazing! Sadly the season wasn t the best for tuna and mahi mahi which only means we will come back for more.
Great music on board, black pearl is your ultimate charter for fishing in Aitutaki.
Meitaki Mike, Mere and Leo
We’ ll see you soon
Written December 7, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kia Orana Mattie and Aurelia
Thank you so much for taking the time to write this wonderful review of your experiences aboard the Black Pearl. It was certainly our pleasure to meet you both.
We look forward to seeing you again soon and hopefully catching tuna and mahimahi.
Take care, stay safe.
Regards
The Black Pearl Crew
Mike, Mere and Leo
Written December 24, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
fionamarg
Inverurie, UK34 contributions
Jan 2024 • Couples
Thank you Mike for a wonderful morning out on the boat with you.
It was great just the 3 of us and the fishing a real experience for novices like us, with great guidance from Mike. It was topped off by successfully catching several tuna which Mike filleted & we took back to our hotel where the chef prepared a traditional polynesian dish: Ika Mata.
Our fishing was then followed by a tour of the lagoon islands, including the noted “ one foot island” though the bonus for us was that we got there before the large boats of day tourists!
Snorkelling in the lagoon was also just great & Mike guided me to specific spots & pointed out the various species of fish & marine life.
All in all a very memorable day with the added bonus of home prepared sandwiches by Mike’s Mum & unlimited soft drinks.
Thank you again Mike & Mere.
Don’t hesitate to book this trip while on Aitutaki. Believe me you won’t regret it
It was great just the 3 of us and the fishing a real experience for novices like us, with great guidance from Mike. It was topped off by successfully catching several tuna which Mike filleted & we took back to our hotel where the chef prepared a traditional polynesian dish: Ika Mata.
Our fishing was then followed by a tour of the lagoon islands, including the noted “ one foot island” though the bonus for us was that we got there before the large boats of day tourists!
Snorkelling in the lagoon was also just great & Mike guided me to specific spots & pointed out the various species of fish & marine life.
All in all a very memorable day with the added bonus of home prepared sandwiches by Mike’s Mum & unlimited soft drinks.
Thank you again Mike & Mere.
Don’t hesitate to book this trip while on Aitutaki. Believe me you won’t regret it
Written January 12, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MadeinOz_11
Adelaide, Australia24 contributions
Jun 2024 • Solo
I had a wonderful morning on the lagoon with Leo.
He’s extremely knowledgeable and entertaining. He really knows his stuff.
We went to One Foot Island & Honeymoon Island. The snorkelling was fantastic. Loads of beautiful fish and corals. Giant clams and giant trevally. Exceptional!
A delicious morning tea was provided with beautiful fresh sandwiches, coconut bread and yummy fresh fruit.
Mere picked me up from our accommodation and was incredibly accommodating and caring as my husband has sustained an injury was was unable to join me on the tour.
I love the fact that this company is for “small group” tours. Personally that’s something I always look for when booking tours. I was able to spend (within reason) as long as I wanted at each of the spots we visited, because they weren’t rounding up larger groups of people.
Would 100% recommend Black Pearl tours.
He’s extremely knowledgeable and entertaining. He really knows his stuff.
We went to One Foot Island & Honeymoon Island. The snorkelling was fantastic. Loads of beautiful fish and corals. Giant clams and giant trevally. Exceptional!
A delicious morning tea was provided with beautiful fresh sandwiches, coconut bread and yummy fresh fruit.
Mere picked me up from our accommodation and was incredibly accommodating and caring as my husband has sustained an injury was was unable to join me on the tour.
I love the fact that this company is for “small group” tours. Personally that’s something I always look for when booking tours. I was able to spend (within reason) as long as I wanted at each of the spots we visited, because they weren’t rounding up larger groups of people.
Would 100% recommend Black Pearl tours.
Written June 20, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Marie F
Auckland, New Zealand61 contributions
Aug 2021
We went out on two half day trips - private charters for their lagoon cruise as a couple. We are both fit and active and I wasn’t interested in slow cruising and eating all day, I wanted to do snorkelling and explore the Lagoon. The fishing charter was the same for us, we want to spend the least amount of time and get the best experience we could.
Although you may pay extra above the other cheaper operators, as the
saying goes, you pay for what you get especially when you are on Precious Holiday Time. If you are looking for a high quality, professional safe operator who knows the Lagoon, Reef and all the best spots - it’s these guys.
They are a small locally run business who care about their customers, they will go out of their way to give their customers a guaranteed good day out. Mere is the engine room of the whole operation and is highly organised and very accomodating. The boats as well kitted out and they run through the safety briefing with you all.
Leo takes you out on the Lagoon Cruise, he’s an expert skipper and will guide you to the best spots, no need to snorkel around aimlessly, he knows where they are all at. We saw plenty of GT’s, Wrassers, Turtle, Giant Clams plenty of sea life they swim so close to you. Delicious morning tea and lovely experience, well worth it.
Mike takes you out on the Fishing Charter, we chose half day. He’s an expert skipper / fisherman which is what you want we you get out over the reef, there wasn’t anytime which I was worried about safety, even when I see these large swells out there,. We had a great morning out fishing the FAD spots brought back enough for a few meals which is all you really want for a day out. This was well worth it for us, we will come back with friends
Thank you Mike, Mere for an amazing boating experience.
Although you may pay extra above the other cheaper operators, as the
saying goes, you pay for what you get especially when you are on Precious Holiday Time. If you are looking for a high quality, professional safe operator who knows the Lagoon, Reef and all the best spots - it’s these guys.
They are a small locally run business who care about their customers, they will go out of their way to give their customers a guaranteed good day out. Mere is the engine room of the whole operation and is highly organised and very accomodating. The boats as well kitted out and they run through the safety briefing with you all.
Leo takes you out on the Lagoon Cruise, he’s an expert skipper and will guide you to the best spots, no need to snorkel around aimlessly, he knows where they are all at. We saw plenty of GT’s, Wrassers, Turtle, Giant Clams plenty of sea life they swim so close to you. Delicious morning tea and lovely experience, well worth it.
Mike takes you out on the Fishing Charter, we chose half day. He’s an expert skipper / fisherman which is what you want we you get out over the reef, there wasn’t anytime which I was worried about safety, even when I see these large swells out there,. We had a great morning out fishing the FAD spots brought back enough for a few meals which is all you really want for a day out. This was well worth it for us, we will come back with friends
Thank you Mike, Mere for an amazing boating experience.
Written August 9, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kia Orana Marie
We are so pleased you enjoyed both of your charters with us and we thankyou for the time you have taken in writing this wonderful review. It was our pleasure to have you on board and show you around our backyard.
Until we meet somewhere again in the future, stay safe.
Regards
Black Pearl Team
Written September 8, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Humblepie
Adelaide, Australia25 contributions
Oct 2024 • Couples
Do you want the best tourist experience ever?
Well this is it!!
Private tour on a small boat for a 3 1/2 hour trip of a lifetime, with experienced local guide.
Hilights:
- pristine turquoise water
- stopping at uninhabited islands,
- snorkelling in the midst of innumerable tropical fish,
-turtles around the boat swimming lazily
-Giant Trevally keeping us company in the crystal clear water
-Giant Clams and baby clam farm
Top this off with Merry’s delicious morning tea- fresh sandwiches, homemade banana and coconut breads, and fresh tropical fruit.
You only need your personal gear, as snorkels and flippers can be supplied.
Top tip: take a good camera, preferably underwater version if possible.
Great value for money.
But you have to do it to understand…
Well this is it!!
Private tour on a small boat for a 3 1/2 hour trip of a lifetime, with experienced local guide.
Hilights:
- pristine turquoise water
- stopping at uninhabited islands,
- snorkelling in the midst of innumerable tropical fish,
-turtles around the boat swimming lazily
-Giant Trevally keeping us company in the crystal clear water
-Giant Clams and baby clam farm
Top this off with Merry’s delicious morning tea- fresh sandwiches, homemade banana and coconut breads, and fresh tropical fruit.
You only need your personal gear, as snorkels and flippers can be supplied.
Top tip: take a good camera, preferably underwater version if possible.
Great value for money.
But you have to do it to understand…
Written October 21, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Im very sorry for the delayed response, we used to get notified of questions via email but obviously no longer. Please email me blackpearlaitutaki @ outlook . com Regards Mike
Written March 21, 2019
I would like to know how to reach black pearl tours to inquire as to availablility of a fishing charter for a specific date?
Merrill
Written September 24, 2017
tekotia@aitutaki. net.ck
Written September 25, 2017
Hello, I would like to ask some questions via email but I don't seem to be able to find any link or email address on your website. Can you let me know how to contact you. Thanks
Written May 29, 2017
Try tekotia @ aitutaki . net . ck , there are obviously no gaps between this email address but Tripadvisors wont allow email addresses being sent so thought this might work. Mike
Written May 30, 2017
Dear Black Pearl Charters, I am traveling solo. I would like to book with you. I did send a request through email. I will be at the Aitutaki Village from 3/21 - 3/24. Thank you.
Written March 13, 2016
Kia Orana! I'm interested in snorkeling only. I would prefer a small group. Please advise as to cost, number of guests on board, and time spent snorkeling. Thank you so much!!
Written March 13, 2016
Kia Orana, we only offer private lagoon/snorkeling tours, half day or full. Normally our guests are couples and often families. Cost is based on 2 pers, half day $350NZD 3.5-4hrs, full day $550 6-7hrs and includes a BBQ lunch on One Foot Island. Time spent snorkeling is entirely up to our guests, can snorkel the entire time if you wanted. We do have a route that we take including 3 snorkeling locations and two island visits but we can actually taylor the day to suit you. Hope that answers your question. Regards Mike and Mere
Written March 13, 2016
Hi, my husband & I are staying in Aitutaki from the 4th to the 12th of March 2016. We have read the excellent Black Pearl tour reviews and would love to go on the snorkelling day trip during our stay. Could you tell us how we can go about booking it in advance please? Thank you
Written August 29, 2015
Hi book anytime, but in order to make sure you get out on the charter I would recommend you book prior to coming. No deposit is required, payment in cash after the charter is the preferred payment option.
Regards
Written August 29, 2015
Gordon G
Sydney, Australia
Hi what sort of fish do you usually catch? Also what fishing styles do you specialise ini.e. Bait, trolling etc
Written July 26, 2015
Morning,
This time of the year my main method, and favourite way of fishing, is live baiting. I am targeting yellowfin tuna and mahi mahi, also the more experienced the angler the lighter the gear.
Other fishing options include trolling hard bodied lures and skirts for wahoo, sailfish and marlin. The latter two aren't that common but occasionally we get lucky. Flicking and slow trolling soft plastics close to the reef in 3-5m is also fun targeting snapper but many reef species are landed. The last option is casting poppers and stickbaits for GTs (Giant Trevally) this incurs extra cost and is weather dependent. If you haven't already, take a look at our website , this will tell you whats included on our charters and costs. Cheers, Mike
Written July 26, 2015
When people go out on charters fishing.....
What happens to the poor fish that otherwise would be swimming along enjoying his day? Do they get thrown back in the water or killed?
Thank you.
Written March 5, 2015
I have been to aitutaki and loved it of course. I don't remember seeing anyone sport fishing. There seems to be a lot now sadly.
Written March 5, 2015
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