Outdoor Activity · Auckland CBD

Whale & Dolphin Safari

4.6976 Google reviews

Younger kids (4–8)Older kids (9+)Outdoors

How muchTe utu: $149–$219
Their siteHe pārongo atu anō: whalewatchingauckland.com
Last checkedI tirohia: Last checked 15 Aug 2026

Get directions

LocationTe wāhi

Auckland CBD

Directions Website

What it is

A 4.5-hour catamaran cruise into the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, departing from the Eastern Viaduct Marina, puts families alongside working marine researchers as they go about their actual fieldwork. The crew share their knowledge throughout, so children get far more than a sightseeing trip — they get a live science lesson on the water.

The Hauraki Gulf is home to whales, dolphins, seals and rare seabirds, and the operator backs its sightings with a guarantee: if no marine mammals are spotted, passengers can cruise again at no extra cost. Ticket purchases also feed directly into conservation initiatives, which gives the outing a satisfying sense of purpose beyond the spectacle.

Best suited to families with older children who can manage a longer sea voyage, this is the kind of day that tends to stay in the memory — the moment a whale surfaces, or a dolphin rides the bow wave, rather than anything found on dry land.

What other parents say

Peter Coombsa month ago

We enjoyed a great whale & dolphin watching experience before travelling back to the UK, a memorable ending to an epic trip. The staff were knowledgeable and very approachable. We spotted 1/2 whales and were visited by many friendly, inquisitive dolphins. The weather was perfect making it a wonderful experience.

Jayson Vemoa4 months ago

Great memorable sea journey with the friendly helpful crew of Marine Biologists who were a plethora of knowledge about the ocean wildlife. They showed and informed us how much work and passion is performed with protecting the marine environment. We felt safe taking our children aboard teaching the awareness needed out there in the deep blue. We caught some panoramic view of Auckland”The City of Sails” Big Thankyou to John, Laurie, Cayla and Sanaa who all made the trip memorable for us.

Read 3 more reviews ↓

Roy Wee (Panda)5 months ago

All I could say is GO!! This is an amazing and highly must go adventure in Auckland. It really depends on luck I would say to see the dolphins and whale, though I would say we got lucky in the first 30 minutes to see some dolphins that they even came so close to the boats and was jumping at the side and swimming in the front of our cruise the spectacular moment of just watching the animals in their own habits. Sadly after that there was no more sea creatures but they did offer a coupon for us to come back at half price with no expiration date. So highly will do make another trip down to see those sea creatures again and cross fingers hopefully we are able to enjoy the full journey.

J. H.8 months ago

Attended the safari and it was absolutely worth it. Since they have a conservation collaboration with the university of Auckland, the tour is very scientific based with parts of practical and theoretical research, which I loved. Very polite and friendly staff and a respectful way with the animals. Also great for solo travellers.

Sydney Black6 months ago

Such an amazing day out on the water! Emily, Sanaa, John and Joseph were exceptional at their jobs and had some awesome fun facts to share. The tour includes some science which was a cool addition and there is an option to purchase photos taken by a guide at the end if you'd like. Would 10/10 recommend this tour!

Reviews from Google.