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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Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Get there on your own |
| Tour types | Guided tour |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Whale watching, Dolphin watching |
| Transport | Sightseeing cruise |
| Cruise type | Sightseeing boat |
Product Info
— 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) / Departs 7:15 am or 1:00 pm from December to March
- Returns: about 4.5 hours after the depart time
Spot the wildlife, including dolphins, swimming alongside the boat during the ride!
Listening to the commentary from the experts and get to know more about dolphins!
Get close to the dolphins and take pictures as your special memory!
Purchase Notice
- The supplier will reach out directly to collect a fuel surcharge via either payment link or pay-on-board, prior to travelling
- 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
Reminders
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
The supplier will reach out directly to collect a fuel surcharge via either payment link or pay-on-board, prior to travelling
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations 2 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–1 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once your refund request is confirmed, KKday will initiate the refund to your original payment method within 15 days. The actual refund timing depends on your card-issuing bank’s policy.
