Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari Eco Cruise

About This Experience

Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari runs this 4.5-hour eco cruise on the Dolphin Explorer, a 65-foot catamaran moored in the Eastern Viaduct. With 1,251 reviews and a 4.5 rating it is the most-reviewed cruise on this site, and one of two whale and dolphin trips we cover.

The boat leaves from the Eastern Viaduct in the city centre and heads out past North Head, Devonport and Rangitoto Island before the search begins in the open Gulf. Orca and bottlenose dolphins sometimes appear close to the city, so the lookout starts early.

Out in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park the crew scan for Bryde's whales, common dolphins and seabirds, and the skipper provides commentary on what you are seeing. Reviewers describe marine researchers on board sharing tips on reading the water, and sightings that have included pods of dolphins, fur seals, little blue penguins and, on luckier days, a Bryde's whale. One dollar from every ticket goes to the Hauraki Gulf Guardians fund.

It suits wildlife lovers and families willing to spend most of a day at sea. Children under 5 can come if closely supervised, but the trip is not suitable for heavily pregnant women, and stairs and narrow doorways mean the vessel is not wheelchair accessible.

Dress warmly and bring a showerproof jacket, sun hat, sunscreen, binoculars and a camera. If you are prone to seasickness, take medication before you board. Snacks, hot food, beer and wine are sold on board. Prices start from $124 per person, and if you see no marine mammals you can come again free.

Highlights

• 4.5 hours searching the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park for whales, dolphins and seabirds
• Sail on the Dolphin Explorer, a 65-foot catamaran
• Pass North Head, Devonport and Rangitoto Island on the way out
• Commentary from the skipper and time with marine researchers on board
• One dollar from each ticket supports the Hauraki Gulf Guardians fund
• Departs from the Eastern Viaduct in central Auckland

What's Included

• ✓ 4.5-hour eco cruise on the Hauraki Gulf
• ✓ Guide and skipper's commentary on the wildlife
• ✓ Sightseeing past North Head, Devonport and Rangitoto Island
• ✓ A free second cruise if no marine mammals are seen
• ✓ A one-dollar contribution to the Hauraki Gulf Guardians fund

Not Included

• Food and drinks (snacks, hot food, beer and wine sold on board)
• Transport to the Eastern Viaduct
• Seasickness medication

What to Bring

• Warm clothes and a showerproof jacket
• Sun hat and sunscreen
• Binoculars
• Camera
• Seasickness medication, taken before the trip
• Any personal medication

Good to Know & Caveats

• Whales and dolphins are wild and sightings are never guaranteed; if you see no marine mammals, you can take the cruise again for free.
• The operator can cancel for wind, weather or sea conditions, offering a date transfer or a refund.
• Children under 5 are welcome only if closely supervised by a parent or guardian; unaccompanied minors are not allowed.
• Not suitable for heavily pregnant women.
• The vessel is not wheelchair accessible because of stairs and narrow doorways.
• The Gulf is more exposed than the inner harbour, so take seasickness medication before boarding if you need it.

Meeting Point

Eastern Viaduct in Auckland's CBD (the operator berths at Berth 9, Eastern Viaduct Marina); your confirmation gives the check-in time.