Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
Location: Auckland
Jump on board our Dolphin Explorer and get ready for an awesome four and a half hour whale and dolphin safari as you sail along the beautiful Hauraki Gulf to the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park.
The Dolphin Explorer is the most comfortable and stable whale watching vessel in New Zealand which has been designed specifically for the sea conditions in this area so you can rest assured that you are onboard the very best vessel for your once-in-a lifetime adventure!If you are worried about whether you will actually see any dolphins and whales, you will be happy to know that we view dolphins on over 90% of our trips and the mighty whales on 75%! If you still need convincing, we also offer a viewing guarantee (conditions apply, please see details below, under General Info).
While you are waiting to see these magnificent creatures, why not grab yourself a refreshing drink and a bite to eat from the onboard fully licensed cash bar and relax as you take in the beautiful scenery around you.Remember to keep your camera ready because there will be plenty of moments on this adventure you will want to capture forever!
The Hauraki Gulf Marine Park is a truly fascinating maritime national park where over 25 of the 37 southern hemisphere marine mammals have been identified. While onboard, you will also hear some interesting facts about the culture and history of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park from our expert crew as you sail along.
While each safari adventure is different, here is what you can generally expect to see:
• Common Dolphins
• Brydes Whales
• Orca (Killer Whales)
• Bottlenose Dolphins
• A brilliant range of fish including Kingfish, Mackerel, Pilchards, and Hammerhead and Moko sharks!
• Seabirds including Gannets, Shearwaters and Little Blue Penguins, as well as the rarer Albatross and Spotted Shags.
And lastly, being the nature-lovers that you are we think you will be happy to know that a portion of your fare contributes to marine mammal research and conservation.
Boat departs from the Viaduct Harbour, Downtown Auckland
Boat departs: 1.30pm (report at 1.15pm) and returns 6.00pm daily (November – April)
Boat departs: 12.30pm (report at 12.00pm) and returns 5.00pm daily (May – October)
Viewing Guarantee: If dolphins and whales are not seen, we offer a Viewing Guarantee. This is a non-transferable voucher for you to come again for free. This is not a money back offer.
You will need to bring
Sunscreen
Camera
Flat closed in shoes
Wet weather jacket
We welcome everyone to bring their cameras, be aware however that we are out on the water and there is a chance of them getting wet.