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
What To Expect
New Zealand’s most interactive whale and dolphin watching experience. An incredible eco safari direct from downtown Auckland. If you’ve always wanted to go whale watching, our 4.5-hour safari features breathtaking encounters with New Zealand marine wildlife, including whales, dolphins, seals, rare seabirds, and more! Make close-up discoveries and enjoy experiences with our diverse marine wildlife in the stunning scenery of Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. Enjoy unique and special moments with our wildlife and capture photos of rare birds, marine mammals, and amazing island views during your personal encounters.
Options
7.30am Departure
1.00pm Departure
10.30am Departure
Reviews
1,736 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Worth it and more!
Maria W,
Nov 14, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00The experience exceeded expectations. Our hosts understood the assignment and executed it flawlessly. They had to manage a lot of people and did so with patience, compassion, and care. Consummate professionals, they worked diligently to ensure that we not only were able to see marine mammals, but actively sought out the best possible viewing experience for us and made several programming pivots to ensure our voyage was a success. If you are on the fence about booking this experience, take this as your sign to do it. You won’t regret it.
Great excursion!
michelle s,
Nov 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00The staff went out of their way to look for marine animals and provided education along the way. The boat was great for watching inside and out. Staff were very friendly. Worth the money and time!
Sea life
peter f,
Nov 10, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Crew was very knowledgeable and worked to make sure that we were able to see wildlife. The ship was comfortable with plenty of room to sit and watch.
Stunning day for a sail
den003,
Nov 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great day out. Weather was perfect, we got to see 2 pods of dolphins, the cute little penguins but sadly no whales. Lots of people on the boat but you were able to move around freely. Tip- take a waterproof for the splashes and the wind is cool. Very informative crew. Please watch your belongings and rubbish to make sure they don't get blown away into the sea.
Great day out!
Charlie M,
Nov 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The perfect trip, we really enjoyed our trip. Managed to see a pod of dolphins and two Bryde’s whales. The staff were very friendly and knowledgable about local wildlife and the area. I would highly recommend to anyone looking for an activity to do in Auckland. Especially towards a good cause! You can see all the great work the staff do to help the local environment and research. It’s great to see people that really care for the environment and do something about it. I was unaware that the boat was also used as a Research vessel till I arrived, this made the trip all the more exciting being able to see the staff carry out research at certain points on the trip. The Skipper John was especially great making light hearted jokes along the journey and keeping all guests well informed of any sightings. The day was finished off with a great presentation on the way back to the harbour. 10/10.
Some fish don't want to be watched.
davidtX928MP,
Nov 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Would have been nice to see the whales as well as the dolphins but ot be on that day. Good trip anyway and the crew were great.
No guarantees
Karen R,
Nov 1, 2025
- Review from Viator
3.00These whale watching cruises are a little like a politician during an election campaign. They promise alot and only sometimes deliver. But it comes with the territory, you are no guarantee to see whales, at least lots of them. You will see dolphins but whales can be elusive animals. That said, the crew were great and very knowledgeable. If you really like boats, then go for it. Just don't expect to see a ton of whales. In defence to the tour, it's probably a seasonal thing and they can't control a wild animal's behaviour.
Animals at Sea
Gary G,
Oct 31, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00The whale and dolphin tour happened on a perfect day. The water was calm and we were introduced to many different sea birds and a tiny black penguin. The stars for the day were the common dolphins we saw. The swam with us along the boat and out in the open sea. Although we did not see any whales, it was a fabulous outing. The trip ended with us seeing a fur seal as we pulled into port.
Great dolphin and whale watching
Clive E,
Oct 31, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent day out. It lasts around 4.5 hours and is well worth it. Half the crew are scientists doing research, so it is very informative. We saw pods of dolphins and saw 2 or 3 Bryce’s whales, which was the first whales to be seen by the crew for two weeks.
Marine life PARADE!
Daniel S,
Oct 30, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00What an incredible day and tour led by actual marine biologists with a passion and care for the life that surrounds them. We got lucky with weather and what was nearby — legit seeing HUNDREDS of dolphins during our stay out in the bay. Sure on quieter days too that the team is agile enough to adjust the program and still provide an amazing and educational experience. They are masters!
From NZ$219.00
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Operated by Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari