Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari

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A day out on the Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari…

Enjoy a fantastic day out whale and dolphin watching in Auckland! Throughout the year, this family-friendly wildlife safari offers outstanding whale watching, dolphin encounters, and rare seabird spotting from Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-time cruiser, you’re sure to enjoy this once in a lifetime experience.

Onboard the luxury boat, you’ll enjoy expert education from onboard marine researchers and rare bird spotting amid hidden coves. With stunning scenery of Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. Plus, with a convenient central city location, the safari is incredibly easy to get to. So why not come and experience Auckland’s amazing wildlife amid the stunning scenery of the Hauraki Gulf? Departs daily.

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“A unique sea safari that will be unforgettable from the moment you board the boat from the central city wharf”

What to Expect on the Safari:

On the Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari, you can expect to see some of the most beautiful creatures on Earth. We’ll be whale and dolphin watching in their natural habitat, so there’s no guarantee that we’ll see any on our journey. However, with experienced sailors at the helm and a little bit of luck, you’re sure to have an amazing time. 

If we’re lucky enough to spot some whales or dolphins, we’ll be sure to get up close and personal with them. You’ll be able to see them breaching the water’s surface, spy-hopping to get a better view of us, and perhaps even hear them singing as they swim alongside the boat. it’s an experience you won’t soon forget!

The luxury boat holds up to 100 people, with fully licensed café/bar.

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“More than just whale watching and dolphin watching”

Duration of the Safari :

Auckland is the perfect location for New Zealand’s most unique whale and dolphin watching safari. Explore the beautiful Hauraki Gulf Marine Park in search of encounters with its amazing and diverse marine wildlife on board the luxury ‘Dolphin Explorer’ for 4.5 hours.

In Auckland Central, all major hotels and hostels are within walking distance of the Viaduct Basin, where your safari departs. Take a trip out on the 65-foot (20-metre) catamaran to explore one of the world’s most diverse and abundant marine parks, Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. 

The open deck offers views of Auckland landmarks, including the Harbour Bridge, North Head and Devonport, and volcanic Rangitoto Island, while keeping an eye out for orca and dolphins known to frequent the Inner Waitematā Harbour.

You can join interactive research activities with the onboard marine researchers while the crew provides knowledgeable commentary.

During that time, you can expect to spend approximately 4 hours out on the water whale and dolphin watching. The remaining time will be spent getting to and from the harbour, as well as enjoying a tasty lunch onboard the boat. (Pre booked)

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The Details:

Location: New Zealand Maritime Museum, 175 Quay Street, Viaduct Harbour, Auckland 1010

Email: bookings@awads.co.nz

Phone: International: (+64) 9357 6032

NZ (Free): 0508 (365 744)


Experience the thrill of capturing photos as you share close encounters with rare birds, marine mammals, and incredible island views.

What’s Included:

Your ticket for the Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari includes everything you need for a great day out on the water. 

All you need to bring is yourself, your camera, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and a sense of adventure! 

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Ticket Price :

2021/22 Season Pricing

Adult $129

Child $89 (0 to 14 years)

Family $325 (2 adults and up to 2 children; additional children $59 each)

Senior $109 (65+ ID required)

Prices valid till 30 September 2022



2022/23 Season Pricing

Adult $149

Child $99 (0 to 14 years)

Family $369 (2 adults and up to 2 children; additional children $69 each)

Senior $129 (65+ ID required)

  • If you don’t see marine mammals, you can cruise again for FREE!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is it necessary to book in advance?

You can book until close to check-in (around 20 minutes before departure). Booking in advance is recommended, especially during the summer, when they sometimes sell out.

How long does the trip take?

It usually takes 4.5 hours, including 4 hours on the water, but this can vary depending on conditions. It is possible that the skipper will return early if the sea and wind conditions deteriorate too much while you are on safari. It is always their priority to ensure the safety and comfort of their passengers. If they return early, their crew will advise you.

What are the weather conditions?

A tour may be cancelled or changed at any time for passenger safety reasons. It is possible for weather and sea conditions to change quickly, which may alter the status of your tour at any time. Any cancellations will be notified to you by the contact details you provided before 10am on the day of departure.

Upon cancellation, you will be refunded if you are unable to attend another day. Refund details are provided in the booking confirmation documents provided to passengers who booked online or through third-party booking agents. Refund details are provided in the booking confirmation documents provided to passengers who booked online or through third-party booking agents.


Conclusion: 

Experience Auckland’s whales & dolphins and find out how you can protect our oceans is a must for anyone visiting Auckland. You can talk to onboard marine researchers and their expert crew about how they’re working to protect the whales, dolphins and marine environment.
Marine wildlife encounters on a breathtaking eco safari direct from downtown Auckland.

Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari is a great way to spend a day out on the water. You’ll have the opportunity to spot some of nature’s most amazing creatures in their natural habitat while also enjoying some of Auckland’s stunning scenery. So what are you waiting for? Book your tickets today!

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