Water activity

Auckland: Whale and Dolphin Watching Half-Day Eco Cruise

4.4159813 out of 5 stars
4.4
4.4159813 out of 5 stars
851 reviews
Certified by GetYourGuide
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Water activity
Auckland: Whale and Dolphin Watching Half-Day Eco Cruise
Certified by GetYourGuide
4.4159813 out of 5 stars
4.4
4.4159813 out of 5 stars
851 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

J
Janina – United Kingdom

Very informative. Saw a whale and multiple dolphins. Wonderful experience.

R
Ray – United Kingdom

We had a wonderful time out in the Hauraki gulf on our Eco cruise . We went with no expectations , as we are well aware that the very nature of these kinds of trips cannot be planned as it is just luck on the day- but that’s what make them exciting ! Despite an earlier weather warning for large swell , we went ahead and we weren’t disappointed ! Our excellent and knowledgable guides ( doubling as crew ) gave superb commentary and explanations on our trip , whilst maintaining respect for the marine life ; we were lucky enough not only to be joined by a large pod of dolphins .. but a blue shark and 2 different Bryde’s whales . Amazing ! Massive shout out to George , Toni , Sanaa and Emily, both for making this a truly remarkable experience and also all the valuable research you’re doing to ensure the continuation of marine life and these kind of experiences for the future . Thank you guys . Cannot recommend this enough .

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)

Select participants and date

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 851 reviews

Review summary

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

Customer photos

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Recommended
J
Janina – United KingdomApril 23, 2025 – Verified booking
Very informative. Saw a whale and multiple dolphins. Wonderful experience.
R
Ray – United KingdomApril 15, 2025 – Verified booking
We had a wonderful time out in the Hauraki gulf on our Eco cruise . We went with no expectations , as we are well aware that the very nature of these kinds of trips cannot be planned as it is just luck on the day- but that’s what make them exciting ! Despite an earlier weather warning for large swell , we went ahead and we weren’t disappointed ! Our excellent and knowledgable guides ( doubling as crew ) gave superb commentary and explanations on our trip , whilst maintaining respect for the marine life ; we were lucky enough not only to be joined by a large pod of dolphins .. but a blue shark and 2 different Bryde’s whales . Amazing ! Massive shout out to George , Toni , Sanaa and Emily, both for making this a truly remarkable experience and also all the valuable research you’re doing to ensure the continuation of marine life and these kind of experiences for the future . Thank you guys . Cannot recommend this enough .
A
Alice – FranceApril 9, 2025 – Verified booking
Excellent, all the more so considering we had no sightings at all today and the crew were sincerely disappointed. Explanations throughout the whole trip were thorough, detailed and interesting ; marine science, natural surroundings, geography, sights, bird watching... beautiful afternoon out at sea. Plus I met some great fellow travellers. Thank you to the crew, especially the main guide 💜! Keep up the great work!

Product ID: 53125

Activity provider:Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari

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