Certified by GetYourGuide

Auckland: Whale and Dolphin Watching Half-Day Eco Cruise

4.4204545 out of 5 stars
4.4
4.4204545 out of 5 stars
880 reviews
Certified by GetYourGuide
Auckland: Whale and Dolphin Watching Half-Day Eco Cruise
4.4204545 out of 5 stars
4.4
4.4204545 out of 5 stars
880 reviews
Likely to sell out

Experience Hauraki Gulf Marine Park on a marine eco-safari from Auckland. Hop onboard a luxury catamaran and look out for orcas and bottlenose dolphins.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 4.5 hours
Check availability to see starting times
Skip the ticket line
Live tour guide
English

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

C
Carlota – United Kingdom

Great cruise. The crew were very knowledgeable and allowed us plenty of time to see the dolphins up close. We also saw a few whales in the distance. Thank you!

J
Jenina – Philippines

We had an amazing time! The crew was fantastic—friendly, knowledgeable, and really made the experience enjoyable. While we didn’t spot any whales, the dolphins more than made up for it! We watched them for about 30 minutes, and they were absolutely incredible—such a joy to see them up close. It was also awesome to see the gannets diving from the sky—such a spectacular sight to witness in action!

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Highlights

  • Explore Auckland’s spectacular Hauraki Gulf Marine Park
  • Experience up-close-and-personal wildlife viewing with marine mammal sightings
  • Make the most of your time in Auckland with an incredibly convenient trip
  • Take in amazing views of Rangitoto Island and the Hauraki Gulf
  • Listen to expert commentary and interact with the marine research scientists

Full description

Climb aboard a 65-foot luxury catamaran conveniently docked in the heart of Auckland. Set sail on the "Dolphin Explorer" to take in the sights and sounds of the city from the water. Enjoy a quick tour past impressive landmarks, such as North Head/Devonport and Rangitoto Island.

Keep a close look out for Orca and Bottlenose Dolphins that regularly visit the waters close to the city. Then explore the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. Get up-close viewings of whales, dolphins, and sea birds.
The "Dolphin Explorer" is able to get much closer than whale watching operations in other locations. Learn about the fauna via expert commentary from the ship's skipper.

When you travel with us, you aren't only experiencing the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, you are helping to regenerate and protect it for the future generations, with a dollar from every ticket bought goes towards the Hauraki Gulf Guardians fund.

Includes

  • 4.5-hour eco-cruise
  • Guide
  • Second cruise if you don't see any marine mammals
  • Food and drinks (available to purchase on board)

Meeting point

Our boat is at Berth 9, Eastern Viaduct Marina, accessed from the end of Quay Street heading West. This is opposite the Maritime Museum. On arrival look for our crew at the top of our boarding ramp to check in 30 minutes before departure (check-in closes 15 minutes prior to trip time).

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Important information

Not allowed

  • Unaccompanied minors

Know before you go

  • If you don't see any marine mammals, you can take the cruise again for free
  • Please wear warm clothes and bring a showerproof jacket, sun hat and sunscreen, your camera, binoculars, personal medication (if required) and sea-sickness medication (should be taken prior to the trip)
  • This activity is not suitable for heavily pregnant women
  •  Children under 5 years old are permitted on the trip only if they are closely supervised by a parent or guardian
  •  A small range of snacks, hot food, and drinks are available to purchase on board the boat, including beer and wine.
  • In the interest of your safety, the activity provider reserves the right to cancel any trip due to wind, weather, or sea conditions
  • The vessel is not wheelchair accessible, due to stairs and narrow doorways

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.4 /5

based on 880 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.8/5
  • Transportation
    4.7/5
  • Value for money
    4.3/5

Customer photos

+101
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C
Carlota – United KingdomJune 12, 2025 – Verified booking
Great cruise. The crew were very knowledgeable and allowed us plenty of time to see the dolphins up close. We also saw a few whales in the distance. Thank you!
J
Jenina – PhilippinesApril 25, 2025 – Verified booking
We had an amazing time! The crew was fantastic—friendly, knowledgeable, and really made the experience enjoyable. While we didn’t spot any whales, the dolphins more than made up for it! We watched them for about 30 minutes, and they were absolutely incredible—such a joy to see them up close. It was also awesome to see the gannets diving from the sky—such a spectacular sight to witness in action!
J
Janina – United KingdomApril 23, 2025 – Verified booking
Very informative. Saw a whale and multiple dolphins. Wonderful experience.

Product ID: 53125

Activity provider:Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari

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