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Cruises and boat trips in Auckland

See a destination from the water, whether you want a short sightseeing trip or a longer outing. A transport ticket, sightseeing cruise and dining cruise are different products, so compare their routes and inclusions.

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Plan your Auckland experience

Auckland combines a waterfront city break with opportunities to travel further afield. Keep city visits and longer regional outings distinct so that travel time does not crowd out the experience itself.

Boat trips, attraction tickets and excursions towards other North Island destinations offer different days. Compare the starting point, transport and included admissions, not just the product’s headline attraction.

Check whether the activity takes place in Auckland or requires travel elsewhere. Confirm the departure and return arrangements before booking an evening activity on the same day.

Compare experiences and ticket options

A selection of listed experiences. Starting prices may vary by date and ticket type. Check your chosen option for current availability and final pricing.

Half-Day Whale and Dolphin Safari Cruise from Auckland

Half-Day Whale and Dolphin Safari Cruise from Auckland

Half-Day Whale and Dolphin Safari Cruise from Auckland

Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari

Listed duration: 270 minutes

About this experience and booking advice

Half-Day Whale and Dolphin Safari Cruise from Auckland This ticket grants entry to a 4.5-hour marine wildlife cruise into the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, departing from Viaduct Basin aboard a luxury catamaran designed for marine research and passenger comfort. The vessel heads into waters known for their remarkable diversity of dolphins, whales, seabirds and other marine life. The cruise route passes Auckland's famous landmarks including the Harbour Bridge, North Head and Rangitoto Island, New Zealand's youngest volcano. Open viewing decks give you unobstructed views of the sparkling gulf and city skyline whilst you search for wildlife. Marine science experts lead live commentary about the region's ecology, geology and conservation efforts, and guests can take part in hands-on research activities as biologists collect data on board. You might spot playful dolphins leaping from the water, orcas cutting through the waves, or majestic whales surfacing nearby. Bird watchers can look for up to 26 seabird species including little blue penguins and gannets diving for fish. This educational eco-adventure suits families, photographers and anyone wanting to experience Auckland's marine environment whilst supporting ongoing conservation research. What is Included 4.5-hour whale and dolphin safari cruise Expert marine science commentary and education Participation in marine research activities Access to open and sheltered viewing areas Onboard cafe (food and drinks available for purchase) Good to Know The cruise lasts approximately 4.5 hours including boarding and disembarkation. Departs from Auckland's Viaduct Basin. Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. Dress in layers with a windproof jacket and wear flat-soled shoes for deck safety. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat for sun protection. Pack any needed medication including seasickness remedies if you are prone to motion sickness. The onboard cafe sells food, soft drinks and alcohol at the bar, but you are welcome to bring your own non-alcoholic refreshments. The cruise operates in all weather conditions with both sheltered and open-air spaces available. Suitable for all ages. Families are welcome and the educational activities engage children and adults alike. If you are planning more Auckland adventures, consider the Auckland Harbour Bridge climb for spectacular city views, or explore the region further with a Waiheke Island wine tour to experience Auckland's island paradise. Alcohol is not sold through this listing. Any tasting is served on site by the operator to guests of legal drinking age.

Planning your visit to Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari

Choose your date and participant options for Half-Day Whale and Dolphin Safari Cruise from Auckland before comparing the final price. Allow at least the listed 270 minutes for the experience, plus time for arrival and onward travel.

Listed venue address: 175 Quay Street, Auckland CBD. Check your ticket for the exact entrance or meeting point.

Can I cancel Half-Day Whale and Dolphin Safari Cruise from Auckland?

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience. Within 24 hours of the start, the booking cannot be cancelled.

What is included in my ticket?

Review the inclusions and exclusions for the exact Half-Day Whale and Dolphin Safari Cruise from Auckland option you select. Do not assume that transport, meals or additional venue access are included unless stated.

Auckland Scenic Boat Cruise to the Riverhead Tavern

Auckland Scenic Boat Cruise to the Riverhead Tavern

A return harbour cruise from Westhaven Marina through the upper Waitematā to The Riverhead Historic Tavern, one of New Zealand's oldest riverside pubs.

About this experience and booking advice

This ticket secures a place on the Auckland Scenic Boat Cruise to the Riverhead Tavern, a return harbour cruise aboard the Riverhead Cruiser, the operator's fully licensed vessel. Departing from Z Pier, Westhaven Marina, the cruise travels through the upper Waitematā Harbour to Riverhead, passing bridges, tidal inlets, and coastal landmarks along one of Auckland's quieter waterway routes. The vessel offers both indoor and outdoor seating throughout the journey, and a live guide provides commentary on the outbound leg, covering the harbour's history and the communities along its upper reaches. Ashore at Riverhead, guests have time to dine and unwind at The Riverhead Historic Tavern, one of New Zealand's oldest riverside pubs, before the guide leads the group back aboard for the return cruise to Westhaven Marina. The return leg follows the same upper harbour scenery at a relaxed pace, making this a full-day outing. Each ticket covers the return cruise with onboard commentary throughout. Guests should plan to arrive at Z Pier 15 to 20 minutes before departure for check-in. Seating is available both inside and on deck for the full duration of the cruise. Vehicles are not sold through this listing. Any vehicle used during the experience is supplied by the operator and returned at the end.

Planning your visit to Auckland Scenic Boat Cruise to the Riverhead Tavern

Choose your date and participant options for Auckland Scenic Boat Cruise to the Riverhead Tavern before comparing the final price. Check the selected option for its duration and arrival instructions before planning your next activity.

Listed venue address: Auckland. Check your ticket for the exact entrance or meeting point.

Can I cancel Auckland Scenic Boat Cruise to the Riverhead Tavern?

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time.

What is included in my ticket?

Review the inclusions and exclusions for the exact Auckland Scenic Boat Cruise to the Riverhead Tavern option you select. Do not assume that transport, meals or additional venue access are included unless stated.

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Auckland booking questions

Is a boat ticket the same as a sightseeing cruise?

Not necessarily. Read the selected product details for the route, number of journeys, departure point, commentary and any included food or drinks.

How do I book an experience in Auckland?

Choose a destination and browse the listed experiences. Open a product to review its details, select your date and ticket option, and check the final price before completing your booking.

What does the starting price include?

A starting price is a guide for the product, not a quote for every date or group. Inclusions, participant types and available options differ. The booking page confirms the price and terms for your selection.

Can I cancel or change my tickets?

Cancellation and amendment terms vary by product and ticket option. Read the specific policy before paying. Do not assume that a ticket is refundable or can be moved to another date.

How should I plan my day in Auckland?

Check whether the activity takes place in Auckland or requires travel elsewhere. Confirm the departure and return arrangements before booking an evening activity on the same day.

Which language is the experience offered in?

Check the language of the specific tour, guide or audio option before booking. The language used on this guide does not guarantee that an experience is delivered in English. Confirm the selected option if you need another language.

Need help with a booking? Contact VervTrip with your booking reference.