Dolphin and Whale Safari - Auckland

Rates: from NZ$140 per person

Auckland's beautiful Hauraki Gulf is considered to be one of the most biologically and geographically diverse marine parks in the world. It is also one of the world's richest habitats for marine mammals: 22 species of dolphins & whales have been seen in the Hauraki Gulf.

On Auckland's Dolphin & Whale Safari you will experience the Gulf from the comfort of a luxury 20 meter Powercat. This is a high speed vessel designed specifically for the water conditions of the Hauraki Gulf. It has large saloons and decks on two levels which provide great viewing areas and maximum passenger comfort. A light lunch is served during the journey.

Every safari is different. You may see small pods of dolphins playing around the boat or be spellbound by the spectacle of a feeding frenzy involving sea birds, dolphins, and whales.

The safari will take you beyond the islands of Rangitoto and Waiheke and into the open water of the Hauraki Gulf. Dolphins & whales are found in this beautiful area all year round. They can travel substantial distances from day to day.

Most days we find Common dolphins; we can see just a few or many hundreds of them. We see Bryde's whales throughout the year - often in winter, less frequently through the summer months. If we're lucky we see these majestic whales lunge-feeding through large schools of fish. Other species seen through the year are Bottlenose dolphins and Orca (Killer whales).

Trips depart daily from the Viaduct Harbour in downtown Auckland at 11am, weather permitting, and return at approximately 4pm.

You should bring warm clothing, sunhat, sunglasses, sunblock and togs and towels if you wish to swim.

Suitable for children over 5 years.