SS Matai Wreck Snorkel Adventure
Guided Snorkel Tours - SS Matai Wreck Boiler Adventure
Join the crew from Muri Retreat for Guided Snorkel Tours. From Adventure to Finding Nemo cute...we got it all.
SS Matai – 1916 Shipwreck Snorkel Tour - Intermediate to Advanced (click here for video link)
The SS Matai was a British cargo ship that was wrecked on Christmas Day in 1916 and is now part of the reef lining the Avarua Harbour in Rarotonga.
It is a fascinating place to snorkel and a unique experience while holidaying in Rarotonga.
In the right conditions, this snorkel adventure is one of the top 10 things to do when visiting Muri Retreat and Rarotonga.
Please note: This is not for beginners. Gain advice or join Simon when attempting to visit the Boiler at the Matai Wreck. Simon will pick the timing around the weather, tide and sea conditions. He adds safety equipment to ensure your safety while experiencing the thrill of open Pacific ocean snorkelling.
Historic Information;
The British cargo ship MAITAI SS was built in 1892 by C. S. Swan & Hunter, Wallsend as the Passenger/Cargo ship Miowera for the New Zealand & Australasian SS Co. Ltd. (Huddart). In 1908 she was renamed MAITAI SS for the Union Steamship Co of New Zealand. She was wrecked on South Reef, Avarue, Raratonga on December 25th, 1916, while on a voyage from San Francisco to Wellington. Read more at the wreck site: https://www.wrecksite.eu/wreck.aspx?133652
Press article from New Zealand.
What our previous guests have said
Comfortable, quiet, value for money, exactly what I needed. 9/10 Source: Booking.com Reviews
Alan | 15th May 2026, New Zealand
Our stay at Muri Retreat was truly unforgettable. From the moment we arrived, we could feel the care and thought that Simon and Denise pour into this place.
Wez | 18th April 2026, New Zealand and South Africa
We had a truly wonderful stay at Muri Retreat. The view from the balcony of our lovely room was phenomenal, and we felt completely at ease. The room was
Karin | 27th March 2026, Germany
+ The apartment offers a beautiful view of the sea and a great sunrise every morning. It has everything you need, and the pool is super refreshing. Simon gave
Heidi | 6th March 2026, Germany
Living Space: The area is compact and organized, with an efficient kitchen joining a large room with bed. The lofted ceilings make it roomier and uncrowded.
John | 24th Jan 2026, USA and Overseas Various
So glad that I stayed here instead of one of the resorts/hotels on the main road. I visited many of them for dinner/lunch/drinks throughout my stay and each
Erika | 8th Nov 2025, Australia
We had the most amazing 5 day visit to Raro in August! Muri retreat was exceptional, and had absolutely everything we needed to enjoy our stay. One of our
Molly | 12th September 2025, New Zealand
Wow!! Was the word used by myself and my girlfriend as soon as we arrived at our room Kaute. With an amazing setting and stunning view. We instantly settled
David | 15th June 2025, England | UK
We arranged for airport transfer, was provided with very detailed instructions on when and where to meet. The apartment was clean, spacious, and kitchen as
Erica | 10th June 2025, Canada
Communication before the stay was very informative and comprehensive with information and pick-up options. Simon's airport worked out great. Both when we
Anja | 4th June 2025, Germany