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Your Half Day Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise begins as you’re welcomed aboard the Bay Explorer at Tauranga waterfront jetty. You will explore the Bay of Plenty coastline where we will showcase the amazing diversity of marine wildlife including dolphins swimming along side our vessel. Watch seasonal seabirds, penguins, seals, whales, sunfish, school fish, sharks, orca...even turtles!
Our dolphin & wildlife cruise is tailored to those wanting a genuine kiwi experience in nature. It’s a story about our human intrigue with amazing marine animals and their habitat. Participate by searching on the large top deck for that once in a lifetime wildlife encounter. We have limited our passenger numbers for comfort and to enable a more personal experience. Our large spacious boat is also ideal for families.
The Captain and experienced crew lust to share their marine knowledge with you. Don’t forget your camera as we are able to get up close to wildlife, making it a photographer’s dream.
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children MUST Be Accompanied By An Adult
Minimum Drinking Age 18+ Years
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
A half day cruise on our spacious 18 metre vessel with 360° outdoor views.
Close-up encounters-penguins, seals, dolphins, whales, sunfish, seabirds, sharks, turtles and orca.
Onboard commentary and references with facts on the Bay and local marine wildlife.
Comfortable fully enclosed seating downstairs and a large open sun-deck for wildlife watching.
Our friendly, professional Bay Explorer Crew
Photos of a lifetime!
Some of the best marine diversity in New Zealand.
Pick Up & Return Transfer (Optional)
Lunch Box (Optional)
Cold beer and chilled regional wines from our licenced bar and non-alcoholic beverages
Operated by Bay Explorer
81 reviews
Kandghunter,
Feb 5, 2025
Get there early!!!! The crew does not have any idea where its 20 or so passengers everyday should park. We got there at 8:40 for the 9:00 departure. Recommended per booking to get there between 8:30 and 8:45. My wife ran to the boat to ask where to park while I was trying to figure out Tauranga NZ parking options. They said they did not know where we could park. Really?A parking garage across the street was closed. The municipal parking kiosk/paypoing had a broken LED screen. After looking/circling for about 10 minutes, my wife said the Captain of the boat said we could park in one of their spots. He then made a point about us departing late during the safety briefing. It made for an unpleasant experience, despite the lovely trip and wonderful sites.
William R,
Feb 2, 2025
It took awhile to find the dolphins but very fun when we did. The captain tries really hard to communicate with other boats to locate them He was accommodating dropping us off at our cruise ship. Very nice! Nice people
Jennifer O,
Jan 26, 2025
Didn't see anything. Thought we'd see at least dolphins, so big disappointment. Told we could come back again for free, but since I live in Scotland that won't happen. Waste of money.
Sheryl H,
Jan 12, 2025
Fantastic tour where the team will go out of thier way to make it a truly magical experience. Can't wait for another tour!! Thank you team!
Ronald B,
Jan 11, 2025
Watching the dolphins play around the boat. Interacting with crew members about the wildlife. The two ladies I chatted with were very knowledgeable about the wildlife. Nice people