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Auckland Dolphin, Whale and Island Cruise
4.2
12 Ratings
Auckland
Join our Auckland cruise to spot dolphins, whales, and seals. Enjoy island stops and learn about Hauraki Gulf’s rich history and conservation.
Join our Auckland cruise to spot dolphins, whales, and seals. Enjoy island stops and learn about Hauraki Gulf’s rich history and conservation.
Duration:
7 hours, 45 minutes
Cancellation:
24 hours
Highlights
- Explore Group - Auckland - Experience the vibrant marine life in its natural environment at the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park aboard our top-tier cruise fleet, specifically designed for wildlife observation. Departing from the Auckland Viaduct, the cruise navigates past several Hauraki Gulf Islands in search of whales, dolphins, seals, birdlife, and…
- Explore Group - Auckland - Experience the vibrant marine life in its natural environment at the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park aboard our top-tier cruise fleet, specifically designed for wildlife observation. Departing from the Auckland Viaduct, the cruise navigates past several Hauraki Gulf Islands in search of whales, dolphins, seals, birdlife, and more!
The tour also features a stopover at either Rotoroa Island or Man O’ War Vineyards on Waiheke Island. Choose to explore 8km of trails, sheltered sandy beaches, and native wildlife on Rotoroa Island, or enjoy a more relaxed experience at Man O’ War Vineyards with their beachfront cellar door and restaurant.
With large picture windows and expansive viewing decks, including roof, front, and rear decks, there is ample space for everyone to enjoy prime views of the resident whales, dolphins, penguins, and surrounding islands.
Our vessels are equipped with amenities to ensure a comfortable cruise, featuring a fully licensed café offering light refreshments, comfortable seating throughout the cabins, and onboard resources to enhance your understanding of the local wildlife.
What's Included
- Island Stop at Rotoroa Island or Man O’ War Vineyards
- Live commentary
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Dedicated time for marine mammal viewing
- Island Stop at Rotoroa Island or Man O’ War Vineyards
- Live commentary
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Dedicated time for marine mammal viewing
What's Not Included
- Lunch
- Hotel pick-up or drop-off
- Lunch
- Hotel pick-up or drop-off
Additional Information
- Enjoy the chance to see a wide range of marine creatures, such as dolphins, whales, seals, and various bird species
- Guaranteed marine mammal sightings - receive a complimentary return cruise if no marine mammals are observed^
- Includes a stop at either Rotoroa Island or Man O’ War Vineyards
- Discover the history and conservation initiatives on the…
- Enjoy the chance to see a wide range of marine creatures, such as dolphins, whales, seals, and various bird species
- Guaranteed marine mammal sightings - receive a complimentary return cruise if no marine mammals are observed^
- Includes a stop at either Rotoroa Island or Man O’ War Vineyards
- Discover the history and conservation initiatives on the volcanic peaks, numerous islands, and the expansive coastline of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park
- Listen to captivating tales about the origins and histories of the land, sea, and Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki – the original people of Tāmaki Makaurau
- Infants are not required to sit on laps, nor do we have infant seats available. They will have their own adult seat
Location
Explore Group - Auckland
Quay Street
Please check in at the Explore Kiosk (diagonally opposite the Maritime Museum) at least 15 minutes prior to departure.
Wednesday to Sunday & Public Holidays:
Departs: 9:15am | Returns 4pm
Includes an afternoon island stop for 1 - 1.5 hours at Rotoroa Island or Man O' War, Waiheke Island
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
4.2
(12 Ratings)
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Ashley_b
Jul 16, 2025
While my tour ended up... - While my tour ended up being a dud, I would still do this again. I had the unfortunate experience of no marine wildlife and rain. It was the only day that fir into my schedule. While I could have canceled it due to the rain, I wanted to at least try. I wasn't able to see whales or dolphins like I wanted but I did get to be on the ocean and then visit Rotoroa Island. The island was beautiful (even in the light rain).
I was offered a voucher for a free return visit since we didn't see any animals. And even though I could fit the return visit in my schedule, I know I will be back this summer to use it.
Review provided by Viator
Bor_eb
Jun 22, 2025
A great day and plenty of dolphins - We had a great day and saw plenty of dolphins (common dolphins and bottlenose dolphins) playing around the boat and three whales. The captain and the whole crew were most helpful and friendly. Thanks!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Tripster488
May 24, 2025
Explore tours whale & dolphin watching New Zealand - The captain and crew were great, couldn’t have been more helpful!…. Captain gave us a great insight to the local islands and history as we passed. Fantastic when it came to the whale/dolphins, everyone on board took part in looking out for sightings. We saw some Brydes whales and a whole pod of dolphins, extra special was a large bronze whaler shark that passed alongside the boat. The whole day was great, end to end!….
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Reikoy845
Mar 23, 2025
Great experience - The staff is helpful and the content is great‼︎
We met two groups of dolphins. The first time we had a group of six horses, the second time we had a group of more than 12 horses, it was very friendly. We swam around the boat and we could see babies with us.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Go2hi
Mar 2, 2025
Treading water - A fabulous, full day (9:30am to 5:30pm out on the water. Couple of hours at Man ‘o War island (where lunch is surprisingly good at the winery!) Had a full day at our disposal before flying out late at night, so a highly recommended way to pass the time!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Cecilia_t
Feb 26, 2025
Remarkable - It was a awe-inspiring. stunning natural scenery, a thrilling adventure experience that is both beautiful and amazing.
Review provided by Viator
Denise_b
Feb 25, 2025
Great trip! We weren't... - Great trip! We weren't lucky enough to see any whales but we did see dolphins! The stop at the winery was a wonderful side excursion.
Review provided by Viator
William_r
Feb 15, 2025
We enjoyed the boat trip... - We enjoyed the boat trip and the hiking on the island. It was both relaxing and exciting. Loved seeing the dolphins!
Review provided by Viator
Paul
Apr 8, 2025
Alas Tour Cancelled due to weather - Unfortunately due to weather the cruise was cancelled. Communication from cruise operator was prompt and friendly. Rookie mistake though was not planning/arranging a back up activity so pretty much a precious day wasted
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ron_l
Mar 5, 2025
Whhaaattt? No whales? - Disappointed. If you’re interested in a 75-90 boat ride to and from the drop off island, you’ll like this tour. Dropped up passengers at two islands and then on to our search for dolphins. We managed to find one pod of dolphins during our 2 hour hunt and that was exciting. The title of the tour is misleading. No whales here to search for. Seven hours for 30 minutes of enjoying seeing the dolphins.
Review provided by Viator
