Auckland Dolphin and Whale Watching Eco-Safari Cruise
Overview
Available languages
4 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Look for whales, dolphins and seabirds in the pristine waters of Hauraki Gulf just a short boat ride from Auckland city's Viaduct Harbour. Learn from experts on board working to protect these precious creatures and their fragile home. As an active marine-mammal research vessel every passenger contributes to important conservation efforts, just by coming on board.
A dollar from every ticket purchased goes towards the Hauraki Gulf Guardians fund which supports organisations and programs that aim to regenerate the Hauraki Gulf and ensure its future.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Advisable to dress in warm layers and weatherproof gear as weather can be unpredictable
Advisable to bring sun hat (with chin strap to secure it), sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, binoculars and flat-soled shoes
IMPORTANT: Check in closes 15 minutes prior to stated departure time. Those passengers who are late risk losing their allocated seats.
If mobility impaired and a wheelchair is required, please contact operator directly to discuss requirements
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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
Options
10.30am Departure
8.00am Departure
1.30pm Departure
Reviews
1,673 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Knowledgeable crew; Fair treatment
Linda K,
Apr 8, 2025
- Viator
5.00Knowledgeable crew. Saw the back of one whale and many gannets feeding; no dolphins. Interesting explanation of the scientific work they do on board. Was offered a pass for a future trip because of the lack of dolphin or whale sightings. more than fair enough considering we had a good time anyway.
Excellent family trip
Geoff C,
Apr 2, 2025
- Viator
5.00Nice boat ride, good fun crew. Saw lots of Dolphins playing with the boat -great close up views. Whale "glimpsing" more likely than watching but still very cool.
Highly recommend
Roger B,
Apr 2, 2025
- Viator
5.00Excellent knowledge and enthusiasm. We saw dolphins and a few whales. Well organized and very friendly staff.
Absolutely worth it
Sibre C,
Apr 1, 2025
- Viator
5.00It took hours before we saw anything more than birds, but the ship crew was searching hard for marine mammals, and when they finally found them, WOW! First common dolphins, who often rode in front and just ahead of us, making for great viewing, and then we followed a Bryde's whale for a while as well. Less sociable than the dolphins, but still cool. And the crew told us exactly what we were doing and looking for the whole time, and educated us on research and conservation efforts. We even stayed a half hour later than planned (they asked if anyone had any pressing need to return) to watch the animals longer. Thoroughly enjoyable. I also appreciated that there was a café on board - not a ton of options, but enough to stave off hunger for the duration. Be sure to wear sun protection (sunblock was available on board), and be aware that if you ride in front while the boat is going at speed, you will get wet. Also, the crew told us their guarantee: if no whales or dolphins were found, we would receive vouchers to go again until they were seen. That didn't happen as we were successful that day, but I thought it was a nice guarantee. Overall, it was a fantastic afternoon, and I was glad I went.
We were lucky, got to see...
Dima A,
Apr 1, 2025
- Viator
5.00We were lucky, got to see a lot of dolphins and one whale. The ride was smooth (end of March) and relaxing.
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Operated by Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari