Tikapa Moana Whales, Dolphins & Islands Cruise

FAQs

• Where does it depart from?

  Please report to the Explore group Kiosk at least 15 minutes prior to departure. Our kiosk is located in Auckland's Viaduct Harbour at the end of Quay Street, diagonally across from the New Zealand Maritime Museum. See Kiosk in maps

• What will I see during my tour?

  Our Auckland Whale & Dolphin tour includes dedicated marine mammal search time, offering the opportunity to encounter dolphins, whales, seals and native seabirds in their natural habitat.

  We are proud to be a licensed marine mammal viewing operator within the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, operating under a Department of Conservation permit. Our experienced crew follow wildlife viewing guidelines to ensure encounters are respectful, responsible, and focused on animal welfare.

  As we are observing wildlife in its natural habitat, every safari is unique and sightings vary from day to day. If we don't spot marine mammals during your cruise, we offer a Marine Mammal Viewing Guarantee, where you will and your party will receive a complimentary return voucher so you can join us again free of charge.

  • Valid for 12 months from your travel date

  • Booking subject to availability and on a standby basis

  • Non-transferable, not redeemable for cash, non-exchangeable 

  View our terms and conditions for further details on this

• When is the best time of the year to see dolphins and whales?

  The Hauraki Gulf is home to marine wildlife year-round, making Auckland one of the best places in New Zealand to see dolphins and whales in their natural environment at any time of year with us.

  In the cooler months, dolphin activity often increases, with larger pods seen moving through the gulf, making this an excellent time to get out on the water, not just the peak summer season.

  No matter when you travel, every trip is different, and our crew are always on the lookout to give you the best possible chance of spotting marine wildlife.

• Which island will we stop at?

  One of the highlights of our Tikapa Moana Whale, Dolphin Wildlife Cruise is the opportunity to include an island stop as part of your adventure.

  When booking, you can choose your preferred island experience:

  • Rotoroa Island: a conservation wildlife sanctuary with walking tracks, native birdlife and beautiful swimming beaches

  • Man O’ War Bay (Waiheke Island): a relaxed beachfront setting with a vineyard tasting room, restaurant and safe swimming areas

  Island stops are approximately 1–1.5 hours, giving you time to explore, swim or relax.

  Summer weekends & public holidays:

  • On summer weekends & public holidays, the 9:30am departure includes an extended island stop of around 2 hours.
  • The 11:30am departure is a cruise-only option and does not include an island stop.

  Be sure to select your preferred island option when booking.

• Is food provided on my tour?

  Lunch is not included on the Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari, however sandwiches, snacks and drinks are available for purchase on board during the cruise.

  If your tour includes an island stop, here’s some info on food on the islands:

  Rotoroa Island

  There is no food for sale on the island so please remember to take your own food and snacks for the day and pack in a sealable container. There are no rubbish bins on the island, so please take all waste with you when you leave to help protect this wildlife sanctuary.

  If you’re planning to swim or explore the beaches, bring swimwear and a towel.

  Check out more things to here at Rotoroa Island. 

  Man O’ War (Waiheke Island)

  Man O’ War has a beachfront tasting room and restaurant available for dining.

  Reservations are strongly recommended; you can book online in advance. If your preferred time is unavailable, there is lawn seating available for walk-ins - with loads of lawn space for the kiddies to run around!

• What makes this cruise different from other dolphin tours in Auckland?

  This is more than a typical dolphin tour; it’s a full Hauraki Gulf experience.

  While many tours focus purely on wildlife sightings, our Auckland whale and dolphin cruise combines the opportunity to see dolphins and whales with stunning island scenery and time to explore beyond the city, with the option to visit islands such as Rotoroa or Man O’ War.

  It’s designed for those wanting both a memorable wildlife encounter and a unique day out on the water, all in one experience.

• What should I bring?

  Please dress to the weather conditions and ensure to check your bags and footwear before going to help keep Hauraki Gulf Islands pest free.

  • Wear flat soled shoes 
  • Bring a jacket, sunscreen, sunhat, sunglasses
  • Any personal medication (including seasickness medication, as this is not sold on board)
  • Don't forget your camera and binoculars!

  If your tour includes an island stop, you may wish to bring swimwear and a towel. 

• What is your cancellation policy?

  We understand that plans, and weather, can change.

  If you need to cancel your booking, we require at least 24 hours’ notice prior to departure to receive a full refund.

  • Cancellations made more than 24 hours before departure are fully refundable.

  • Cancellations within 24 hours of departure, or no-shows, are non-refundable and non-transferable.

  As we operate on open water, sea and weather conditions can change quickly. In the interests of passenger safety and comfort, Explore Group may alter a route or cancel a departure.

  If we need to cancel your tour:

  • We will contact you using the details provided at booking

  • You may reschedule to another available date

  • Or receive a full refund if a new date cannot be arranged

  For booking terms and conditions, please see here.

   

   

• Can you see dolphins and whales in Auckland?

  Yes, the Hauraki Gulf is home to a wide range of marine wildlife, and both dolphins and whales can be seen throughout the year. Dolphins are commonly encountered on cruises, often travelling in pods, while Auckland is also home to resident Bryde’s whales, meaning whale sightings are possible year-round.

  You may also encounter other species, including orca and bottlenose dolphins, depending on the time of year and conditions.