Auckland Whales, Dolphins & Islands Cruise

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Highlights & inclusions

Explore Hauraki Gulf on a purpose-built wildlife cruise
Dedicated time for marine mammal searching
Spot whales, dolphins, seals, penguins & birdlife
Island stopover at Rotoroa or Man O’ War, Waiheke
Licensed cafe onboard offering snacks and drinks for purchase
Marine mammal viewing guarantee
From
$170.00NZD
Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to experience

1. Select date

May 2026

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Hot Deal
Last minute deal

2. Select participants

Adult
0
Child (5-15yrs)
0

What you can expect

Discover the diverse marine life and rich history of the Hauraki Gulf on a Tikapa Moana whale, dolphin and island cruise in Auckland. Tikapa Moana (the Hauraki Gulf) is the largest marine reserve in New Zealand, renowned for its abundance of wildlife such as whales, seals, dolphins and penguins. Departing from Auckland, this full-day boat cruise offers a unique opportunity to see diverse marine life from a comfortable, purpose-built vessel, as well as spend time exploring one of the marine park’s islands.

The tour features dedicated time for spotting marine mammals, including dolphins, whales and seals. Your onboard guide provides fascinating insights into the wildlife and conservation efforts in the area. You'll also listen to stories about the original inhabitants and Māori cultural significance of Tikapa Moana (the Hauraki Gulf). The cruise also includes a morning or afternoon island stopover at your choice of either Rotoroa Island or Man O’ War on Waiheke Island, where you can relax on the beach, go swimming or purchase some refreshments.

Throughout the whale and dolphin cruise from Auckland, you'll enjoy spacious seating, onboard resources about the local wildlife, as well as  amenities such as a licensed cafe offering snacks, drinks, and light meals for purchase. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or looking for a memorable whale and dolphin tour in Auckland, this experience combines marine life, history, culture and spectacular scenery.

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Location

What you need to know

Inclusions
  • Whale, dolphin & island cruise in Hauraki Gulf
  • 2.5 hours dedicated to spotting marine mammals
  • Informative commentary about wildlife, history & cultural significance
  • Island stopover at either Rotoroa Island or Man O’ War, Waiheke
  • Licensed cafe onboard offering snacks and drinks for purchase
Duration
  • Allow 7.5 hours
Departure Location
  • 9:15am
  • Departs from Explore NZ Kiosk, situated at the end of Quay Street diagonally across from the NZ Maritime Museum
  • Operates daily all year
Additional Information
  • Child rates apply (5-15yrs)
  • Infants 0-4yrs travel free of charge, please advise if travelling with an infant upon booking
  • Lunch is not included, sandwiches, snacks & drinks are available to purchase on board
  • Toilet facilities are available on the vessel
  • Marine Mammal viewing guarantee - if no marine mammals are spotted during your cruise, you'll receive a voucher to cruise again for free
  • Please dress comfortably. We recommend wearing soft soled shoes & to bring an extra jersey/jacket along, sun protection & of course, don’t forget your camera!

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