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
Child ticket must be purchased for any infants travelling.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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.
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
1.00pm Departure
7.30am Departure
Reviews
1,832 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great afternoon
Lee K,Mar 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Very pleasant time saw lots of dolphins, sea birds and even penguins. Crew was very friendly and knowledgeabe.
Great experience!
678grayh,Mar 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had a great time and it was very informative. Didn’t see any whales but found several different pods of dolphins. Particularly enjoyed chatting with Sanaa but the whole crew was awesome.
Excellent experience....
Ron S,Mar 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Excellent experience. Plenty of dolphins, no whales. Crew were very knowledgeable and engaging. Highly recommended.
Clear Blue Peace
Danielle R,Mar 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00What a beautiful day on the water. Very little wind, sunny, and the water was deep blue perfection. The guide was fantastic and super knowledgeable. The crew was kind and attentive but also left us alone so we could fully experience the peace and tranquility of the open water. We saw three different pods of Harbor Dolphins and many birds. Thank you for this amazing day at sea.
What a great afternoon dolphin watching.
andy16yat,Mar 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This is a great trip. We did not see whales. However, we saw dolphins. The team are really knowledgeable and combining it with research is great. Definetly would recommend.
Family of Dolphins under the sun
Venture65173737125,Mar 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was a lovely sunny weather, crystal clear water, mild breeze and calm water. Although no sighting of the Bryde’s whale, we got lucky to see an interesting nursing pod of dolphins and it was many of them. It was a beautiful and magical moment indeed. Thanks to Kayla, Hannah, Dolly and Joseph for the hard work taking care of the trip, the marine ecosystem and eyes on binoculars to seek the wonderful creatures!
Very hard to hear the...
annette v,Mar 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Very hard to hear the commentary from back of ship We saw a lot of Dolphins. Couldn’t understand the guy . Talked too fadt
Fun Despite the Lack of Whales
neilralston1,Mar 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Even though we didn't see any whales and briefly spotted only a few dolphins near the end of the trip, the time on the boat was fun and informative. The company gave each of us on the boat a voucher to use for another trip at anytime in the future.
Dolphins spotted
lynn b,Mar 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Excellent experience would highly recommend but wouldn't take small children. Crew were very attentive if you felt unwell.
A Day with the Dolphins
Jay M,Mar 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I went on the activity at the beginning of March. The weather was gorgeous, only started getting gray as we were headed back to the dock. Unfortunately, we did not see any whales. However, we ran across several pods of dolphins. They and we were having great fun with each other. The crew was fantastic. Very learned according to both their bios and interactions. Forgive me if I leave anyone out because you were all great. Sanaa, Carly, Emily, Lucie, and Greg maybe? Lol. Anyway, it was a fun adventure. I avoided getting drenched from the spray. The vessel had a generous amount of drinks, snacks, and foodstuffs seemingly for everyone to purchase. I would definitely recommend! Jay
From NZ$219.00
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Operated by Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari