Black Pearl Charters

Black Pearl Charters – Aitutaki’s Premier Fishing & Snorkelling Experience

Location: Arutanga, Aitutaki, Cook Islands
Categories: Fishing Charters, Snorkelling Tours, Whale Watching, Spearfishing

Unparalleled Ocean Adventures in Aitutaki
Black Pearl Charters is a boutique charter service in Aitutaki offering an unforgettable experience on the pristine waters of the Cook Islands. Whether you're an avid angler, a first-time fisherman, a snorkelling enthusiast, or someone looking to witness the majestic humpback whales, Black Pearl Charters has something for everyone.

Meet Your Hosts

Owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Mike and Mere Tekotia since 2005, Black Pearl Charters is dedicated to small, personalised groups, ensuring that every adventure is intimate and tailored to your preferences. In 2014, the team expanded with the addition of local expert Leo Daniel, who has over 25 years of experience guiding visitors through the stunning Aitutaki lagoon and beyond.

Our Fleet

Black Pearl Charters operates two well-equipped boats designed for comfort, safety, and adventure:

• The Black Pearl: A 7.2m NZ-made aluminium pontoon Tsunami, built for deep-sea fishing with excellent stability and protection from the elements. Powered by a Yamaha 175hp four-stroke outboard.
• The White Pearl: A 7.2m aluminium Lazercraft ideal for snorkelling and lagoon tours, providing a smooth ride and easy water access. Powered by a Yamaha 200hp four-stroke outboard.

Both vessels carry all required safety gear, including life jackets, emergency radio systems, sea anchors, and first-aid kits. They also feature electric flush toilets for added comfort.

Fishing Charters

Experience some of the best fishing in the South Pacific with Black Pearl Charters. Offering both shared and private charters, you can choose from:

• Game Fishing: Targeting yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and mahi mahi using trolling, live bait, and soft plastics.
• Reef Fishing: Bringing in Bluefin trevally, snapper, grouper, and coral trout using slow jigging and bottom fishing (private charters only).
• Kids Fishing Charters: A fun and safe 2.5-hour trip targeted at young anglers, offering a chance to catch different reef species in calm, shallow waters.
  Fishing equipment includes premium Shimano gear, and some of your catch can be prepared for you to take home for dinner.

Fishing Rates (as of 2024)

• Half-Day Shared Charter (4 hrs): $240 pp (max 4 pax)
• Half-Day Private Charter (4 hrs): $700 (1-3 pax) / $800 (4 pax)
• Full-Day Private Charter (8-9 hrs): $1000 (1-3 pax) / $1100 (4 pax)
• Mix & Match Half-Day (Fishing + Snorkelling): $700 (2 pax)

Snorkelling & Lagoon Tours

Black Pearl Charters offers exclusive half-day private snorkelling trips, visiting stunning locations like One Foot and Honeymoon Islands, the Giant Clam Farm, and the Purple Coral. Guided snorkelling ensures you make the most of your underwater adventure, with insights into the fascinating marine ecosystem.

Snorkelling Rates

• Half-Day Private Snorkelling Tour (3.5 hrs): $450 (2 pax) / $50 per extra person (max 6)
  (Includes hotel transfers, refreshments, snorkelling equipment, flotation devices, and dry towels.)

Humpback Whale Watching (July-October)

Encounter the majestic humpback whales as they migrate through Aitutaki’s waters. Tours focus on ethical interactions, with opportunities to snorkel alongside these incredible creatures when conditions permit.

Whale Watching Rates (Private 3-hour tour)

• 2 pax: $500
• $50 per additional person (max 6)
  (Includes hotel transfers, cold drinks, snorkelling equipment, and towels.)

Spearfishing Adventures

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced spearfisher, Aitutaki offers prime spearfishing locations for catching snapper, parrotfish, trevally, and even trophy fish like Giant Trevally and Dogtooth Tuna.

Spearfishing Rates

• Lagoon (Beginner) – Half-Day (4 hrs): $450 (1-4 pax)
• Blue Water/Outer Reef – Half-Day (4 hrs): $650 (1-4 pax)
• Full-Day (8+ hrs): $1000 (1-4 pax)
  Limited gear available for hire upon request.

Outer Reef Snorkelling & Drift Tours

Explore breathtaking reefs, drop-offs, deep canyons, and vibrant marine life beyond the lagoon in a safe, guided environment. The boat stays alongside you, making for a relaxed and smooth experience.

Outer Reef Snorkelling Rates (Private Tour – 3 hrs)

• 2 pax: $400
• $50 per extra person (max 6)
  (Includes hotel transfers, cold drinks, towels, and snorkelling equipment.)

Why Choose Black Pearl Charters?

✅ 18+ years of experience
✅ Specialised in personalised, small-group tours
✅ High-quality boats and equipment
✅ Knowledgeable and friendly local guides
✅ Flexible tour options, mix & match experiences
✅ Perfect for all skill levels, from beginners to experts

Plan your ultimate Aitutaki adventure today! Whether you’re after an exhilarating fishing trip, a relaxing snorkelling tour, or a chance to observe humpback whales in the wild, Black Pearl Charters promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience on the pristine waters of the Cook Islands.

📍 Location: Arutanga, Aitutaki
📩 Contact: [Email / Website / Facebook]