Sightseeing Cruises

Half-Day Whale and Dolphin Safari Cruise from Auckland

Tourists on a boat watching a whale in the ocean during a safari cruise from Auckland.

Whale surfacing in the ocean near Auckland during a safari cruise.

Dolphins swimming in the ocean during a safari cruise near Auckland.

Dolphins swimming near Auckland skyline on a whale and dolphin safari cruise.

Duration

4 hr 30 min

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

Embark on a journey full of learning and exciting encounters with the marine wildlife of Auckland’s spectacular Hauraki Gulf Marine Park aboard a luxurious catamaran!

4.5/5

(15)

Alan

Jan 2026

Verified booking

The crew were all experts and obviously committed to preserving and respecting the environment. They were sensitive to the needs of the passengers and very responsive to questions. And the Waitemata Harbour and inner Hauraki Gulf are hard to beat!

Lorene

Jan 2026

Verified booking

fantastic sunny day with great information chucked at us through the sailing out to 40m depth where the gannets were diving. dolphins galore, great feeling in the wild.

Hop on board the ‘Dolphin Explorer’ for a 4.5-hour long luxury cruise on the waters of Hauraki Gulf Marine Park.

Sail past stunning landmarks like the Harbour Bridge, North Head and Devonport, and the iconic Rangitoto Island.

Witness the incredible marine life as you spot pods of dolphins, orcas, whales and up to 26 species of seabirds – including the little blue penguin on this wildlife safari.

Interact with marine science experts aboard conducting biological studies to protect marine wildlife and partake in interactive research activities.

Learn how you can play an important part to protect our oceans and their diverse inhabitants.

4.5-hour long Eco-cruise

Dolphin and whale watching

Expert and informative commentary

Interaction with Marine Research Scientists on board

Food and drinks

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

15 reviews
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
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What our guests say
Lorene
Jan 2026
Verified booking
fantastic sunny day with great information chucked at us through the sailing out to 40m depth where the gannets were diving. dolphins galore, great feeling in the wild.
Alan
Jan 2026
Verified booking
The crew were all experts and obviously committed to preserving and respecting the environment. They were sensitive to the needs of the passengers and very responsive to questions. And the Waitemata Harbour and inner Hauraki Gulf are hard to beat!
Anthony
Jan 2026
Verified booking
Claudia
Nov 2025
Verified booking
Sam
Nov 2025
Verified booking

Your marine safari begins at the Viaduct Basin in downtown Auckland where you get on board a 65-foot luxury catamaran and set out to explore the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, one of the most prolific and diverse marine parks in the world.

What's in Store?

As you traverse the waters you will come across stunning views of famous Auckland landmarks like the Harbour Bridge, North Head and the volcanic Rangitoto Island - the youngest volcano in New Zealand. Bathe in the rich history of these landmarks and fun facts about the marine wildlife in the gulf with the expert commentary of your crew. Perched on the large viewing deck you will soon be able to experience the real thrill. You will witness pods of dolphins leap into the air and dive back in, putting on a splendid show. You will come across incredible marine creatures including orcas, whales, fur seals, sharks, manta rays, turtles and rare species of seabirds like the little blue penguin, so be ready with your cameras!

Learn on the go

In for some insider knowledge on these majestic cetaceans and sea creatures? You will get the chance to interact with the marine science experts on board this custom-built marine mammal research vessel where these researchers conduct studies to preserve marine wildlife and invite you to join hands-on research activities.

Important Information

Please note that your allocated seats may be released to stand-by passengers if you do not check in at least 30 minutes before departure.

We recommend you wear a few layers of clothes, bring along something warm and wind/shower-proof, a sun hat, sunscreen and sunglasses.

Please wear flat-soled shoes.

Please carry your personal medication, including seasickness medication, these are not available on board.

Guests may carry their own food and non-alcoholic drinks on board. However, they can purchase food & drinks (including alcohol) at the cafe onboard.

Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the boarding point.

Please arrive at the boarding point 30 minutes before the scheduled time of your visit to avoid any delays.

Boarding Point

Board your cruise at Viaduct Harbour.

Address: Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari,175 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand.

Landmark: opposite to the New Zealand Maritime Museum.

Please check in for your cruise with our crew at the top of the boarding ramp by our boat in the Viaduct Harbour.

Get Directions to the Boarding Point

Getting There

By Bus

The closest bus stop is Lower Albert Street. It is a quick 5-minute walk to the meeting point.

Board buses 95B , 95C , 95G, 97B, 97R to get you there.

By Metro

The closest metro station is Britomart Train Station. It is a quick 7-minute walk to the meeting point.

Board metros East, Sth, West to get you there.

Validity

This ticket is valid for the date and time selected during checkout.