Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari | New Zealand
Enjoy a 4.5-hour cruise on board the luxurious ‘Dolphin Explorer’ and explore the beautiful Hauraki Gulf Marine Park in search of encounters with its amazing and diverse marine wildlife.
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Whale and Dolphin Safari
What's included in Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari | New Zealand
(Subject to Option Inclusions)
— What You Can Expect —
New Zealand’s most unique whale and dolphin watching safari departs direct from downtown Auckland. Enjoy a 4.5-hour cruise on board the luxurious ‘Dolphin Explorer’ as we explore the beautiful Hauraki Gulf Marine Park in search of encounters with its amazing and diverse marine wildlife.
Your safari departs from the Viaduct Basin, just a short walk from all the major hotels and hostels in Auckland Central. Jump on board our 65-foot (20-metre) catamaran and settle in as we head out to explore the beautiful Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, one of the most abundant and diverse marine parks in the world.
From the large open deck, enjoy views of famous Auckland landmarks like the Harbour Bridge, North Head and Devonport, and volcanic Rangitoto Island, as you watch out for orca and dolphins known to frequent the inner Waitematā Harbour. As the crew provides knowledgeable commentary, our marine science experts conduct biological studies and invite you to join interactive research activities.
Because we’re venturing into a wild, natural environment, every trip is different and the marine wildlife we encounter varies from day to day. We typically encounter Bryde’s whales and common dolphins, but you may also meet pygmy blue whales, New Zealand fur seals, sharks, manta rays, turtles and up to 26 species of seabirds – including the little blue penguin.
As we return to Auckland, sit back, take advantage of our licensed café and bar, and enjoy the island views. And if you’re ready to learn more, there’s an optional research presentation so you can learn more about the wildlife you’ve encountered during your safari.
— Cruise Information —
- Check-in closes 15 minutes before departure time
- Safari departs 8:00am, 10:30am, 1:30pm (This time is subject to change depending on the season/month)
- Returns: about 4.5 hours after the depart time
Inclusions
- 4.5 hours safari in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park
- Life Jackets (Child life jackets are also available on board)
- Learn from our expert and informative commentary
- Dining expenses
- Insurance
- Other expenses not mentioned above
- Personal expenses
- Hotel transfer
- Please arrive at the designated location 15 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
- Please be aware that your allocated seats may be released to stand-by passengers if you do not check in at least 15 minutes before departure. Refunds will not be granted to late arrivals
- Due to safety regulations, please note that drones are not permitted at any time during the tour, and GoPro are not allowed to be put in the water
- The captain has the sole and absolute discretion to adjust the scheduled route or destination of the cruise if for any reason the captain considers it necessary for the safety and welfare of the vessel, its passengers and crew
- The cruise company reserves the right to cancel or change the tour at any time for passenger safety due to weather or sea conditions. Guest will be notified of any cancellations via the contact details/email provided at booking before 10 am on the departure day
Meet
Meeting / End Points
- Viaduct Harbour
Policies
Purchase Summary
- Please note any passengers aged under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult and supervised by them on board at all times
- Since conditions on the day are unpredictable, the tour is not suitable for pregnant passengers in their third trimester
- Kindly note that the itinerary times provided are for reference only, as there are different sessions for this tour. Please check your voucher for the final departure time
- Please bring any personal medication with you, including any seasickness medication you may need, as Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari is not able to sell medicine on board
- Licensed café and bar are available onsite, however, guest are welcome to bring their food and non-alcoholic drinks
- In the rare event that passengers miss viewing dolphins or whales, they will receive a complimentary voucher without an expiration date. However, no refunds will be issued
- Please click here to see more FAQs and terms and conditions
— What To Bring —
- Warm clothes that are wind-proof and water-proof
- Sun hat or warm winter hat
- Sunglasses and Sunscreen
- Flat-soled shoes
- Camera
- Binoculars
