Auckland Dolphin and Whale Watching Eco-Safari Cruise

See all (3)

Highlights

  • Learn from experts on board working to protect marine mammals

  • Each passenger contributes to important conservation efforts

  • Catamaran departs Viaduct Harbour in central Auckland

Summary

Meet the boat crew at the New Zealand Maritime Museum at Viaduct Harbour, and depart aboard a custom-built 65-foot (20-meter) catamaran, comfortably appointed so you can best view up to six types of whales as well as dolphins and other marine life. Throughout your 4.5-hour cruise, the captain and guides entertain you with fascinating facts about the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, home to five marine preserves and sprinkled with islands — it's considered one of the world’s most biologically diverse marine parks and home to some 23 different species. Hear about research conducted in partnerships with local marine scientists and discover which whales the crew tracks. They’ll point out sea mammals such as frequently spotted pods of bottlenose dolphins and Bryde’s whales, native to New Zealand. Be ready to snap photos of adorable blue penguins. Set your binoculars upon seabirds such as Australasian gannets, petrels, shearwaters and white-fronted terns soaring above or plunging into the sea. Afterward, the boat returns to Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour, where your tour ends. Please note: While wildlife viewings cannot be guaranteed, dolphins and whales are often swimming around these waters. In the event that you do not see any marine mammals during your trip, you can go again another day at no extra charge.

Tour info

Duration
4 hours 30 minutes
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

Search for whales, dolphins, and seabirds during a tour of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park—it’s just a short boat ride from Auckland city’s Viaduct Harbour. You’ll board a luxury catamaran, custom-built as a marine mammal research vessel, and learn from the expertise of your crew. Enjoy an interactive half-day cruise.

Show more

What’s included?

  • Local guide

  • Every ticket purchased contributes directly to Marine Mammal Conservation

  • Expert commentary/Interaction with our onboard Marine Research Scientists

  • Food and drinks (available to purchase)

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 4h 30m

  • Mobile tickets accepted

  • Instant confirmation

Covid Policy

  • Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms
  • Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas

Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
Operator Website

Operated by:

Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari

About operator:

This is New Zealand’s most interactive whale and dolphin watching experience! Come aboard our luxury catamaran from downtown Auckland, minutes from city hotels, for breath-taking encounters with an incredible variety of wildlife including whales, dolphins, seabirds, seals, penguins and more! Beginning in the Viaduct Harbour, be transported to the sheltered waters of the Hauraki Gulf - one of the world's most abundant and diverse marine parks. Be prepared for breath-taking encounters with wildlife on your 4.5-hour eco-adventure. Enjoy large viewing decks on our purpose-built catamaran Dolphin Explorer and capture amazing photos and video! On board, you'll also participate in marine research conducted by marine biologist guides, who will inspire you to become a guardian of our oceans. *GUARANTEED marine mammal viewing – or come back for free! *Every ticket helps contribute directly to marine mammal conservation

Show more
  • 1 reviews