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Sightseeing Cruises

From Auckland: Tikapa Moana Whales, Dolphins & Islands Cruise

Passengers on a cruise boat pointing towards Auckland skyline on Tikapa Moana.
Dolphin leaping from the water during Auckland Tikapa Moana cruise.
Dining setup with seafood and wine on Auckland cruise table.
Visitors admire rock formations overlooking the sea on Auckland's Tikapa Moana cruise.

Duration

6 hr 45 min

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
    • Go on a 7-hour Tikapa Moana whale, dolphin & island cruise experience.

    • Cruise through the Hauraki Gulf as expert crew search for whales, dolphins, seals, and seabirds in the wild.

    • Enjoy informative onboard commentary while taking in scenic island views and coastal landscapes.

    • Stop at a selected island to relax or explore, with options including Rotorua Island or Man O’ War Bay on Waiheke Island.

    • Benefit from a marine mammal sighting guarantee, with a free return cruise if no wildlife is spotted.

    • 7-hour Tikapa Moana whale, dolphin & island cruise

    • Dedicated marine mammal search

    • Island stop at Rotorua or Man O’ War at Waiheke Island (as per option selected)

    • Informative commentary by experienced crew

    • Marine mammal viewing guarantee (A free return cruise if no marine mammals are spotted during your experience)

  • 1 Boarding point

    Viaduct Harbour

    Get direction

    Sights covered

    Waitematā Harbour

    Waitematā Harbour

    Hauraki Gulf / Tikapa Moana

    Hauraki Gulf / Tikapa Moana

    Island stop: Rotoroa Island or Man O’ War (Waiheke Island)

    Island stop: Rotoroa Island or Man O’ War (Waiheke Island)

    Return cruise via Hauraki Gulf

    Return cruise via Hauraki Gulf

  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

  • A Tikapa Moana whale, dolphin & island cruise with wildlife spotting, scenic views, and an island stop.

    Getting started

    Your ticket includes a 7-hour wildlife cruise departing from Viaduct Harbour in Auckland. Arrive 15–20 minutes early for boarding and check-in before setting off into the Hauraki Gulf.

    What to expect

    • Dedicated wildlife search: Head into the Hauraki Gulf with an expert crew actively searching for whales, dolphins, seals, and seabirds in their natural habitat.

    • Informative commentary: Learn about the region’s marine life, conservation efforts, and ecosystem through engaging onboard commentary from experienced guides.

    • Island stop experience: Enjoy a stop at either Rotorua Island or Man O’ War Bay on Waiheke Island, giving you time to relax, explore, or take in coastal views.

    • Marine mammal guarantee: Cruise with confidence knowing you’ll receive a free return trip if no marine mammals are spotted during your experience.

  • What to bring

    • Bring your camera, binoculars, jacket and seasickness medications.

    Accessibility

    • Guests must be able to use stairs independently to board and disembark. Please note this experience takes place on a sailing yacht with moving ropes and equipment, and the boat may pitch and roll during the journey. Guests with limited mobility must contact the operator for more details before booking.

    Additional information

    • Facilities: toilets

    • Please check in to your cruise 15 minutes before departure

    • Complimentary vouchers issued under the Marine Mammal Viewing Guarantee are subject to availability and valid for 12 months from date of travel

    • Island stops include a short walk to nearest facilities and tracks around the island include steep slopes and loose surfaces. Please refer to island map for more information

    • Sandwiches, snacks and drinks are available for purchase on board during the cruise.

    • Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

    • Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.
    • Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.
    • Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.

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