Auckland Dolphin and Whale Watching Eco-Safari Cruise

4.6 (1,919 reviews) 4 h 30 min Free cancellation

out of 5

1,919 reviews

4.6

Auckland Dolphin and Whale Watching Eco-Safari Cruise — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Departing from Auckland's Viaduct Harbour — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

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.

Whale Watching On the Water Dolphin Watching Excellent Quality Involves Animals Top Product Low Supplier Cancellation Rate Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate

At a glance

Duration: 4 h 30 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 99 people
People per booking: 1–10
Guide: English
Operated by: Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari

Ages: Children (0–14 years) · Adults (15–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Local guide
Included: Every ticket purchased contributes directly to Marine Mammal Conservation
Included: Expert commentary/Interaction with our onboard Marine Research Scientists

Not included

Not included: Food and drinks (available to purchase)
Not included: Hotel pickup and drop-off

Itinerary

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.

Stop 1
New Zealand Maritime Museum
Viaduct Harbour
Auckland Harbour Bridge
Rangitoto Island
Waitemata Harbour
Hauraki Gulf
Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari
Motuihe Island
Motutapu Island
Tiritiri Matangi Island
North Head Historic Reserve

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Our boat is at Berth 9, Eastern Viaduct Marina, accessed from the end of Quay Street heading West. This is opposite the Maritime Museum. On arrival look for our crew at the top of our boarding ramp to check in 30 minutes before departure (check-in closes 15 minutes prior to trip time).

End point

Our boat is at Berth 9, Eastern Viaduct Marina, accessed from the end of Quay Street heading West. This is opposite the Maritime Museum. On arrival look for our crew at the top of our boarding ramp to check in 30 minutes before departure (check-in closes 15 minutes prior to trip time).

Using your ticket

Weather: The nature of this experience means we do sometimes have to cancel due to weather or sea conditions. Please check here https://status.whalewatchingauckland.com/ for trip status updates the night before traveling as this tour is weather dependent. In the event of a cancellation, we also endeavor to inform all customers as quickly as possible via email or phone where contact details are available to us. Please check your email on the morning of departure for any notice of cancellation.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

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.