Auckland Whale & Dolphin Tour (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Auckland Whale & Dolphin Tour?
What makes it 71% Kids-Friendly: Children can spot mammals and join science games, crew provide child life-jackets, but 4.5-hour open-sea ride, cramped toilets, and possible seasickness demand prep and may tire under-12s.
Positives:
- Educational engagement: Kids learn marine science through interactive tasks and commentary.
- Sightings guarantee: Free rebooking if you don’t spot any whales or dolphins.
- Indoor cabin: Provides shelter and seating for breaks or on windy days.
Challenges:
- Potential seasickness: The Gulf can be choppy; bring motion-sickness tablets and choose mid-ship seats.
- Limited toilet space: Only one small restroom onboard; plan bathroom breaks before departure.
- No play area: Space is designed for viewing; bring small games to keep younger kids occupied.
What is Auckland Whale & Dolphin Tour?
- A tour operator based in Auckland providing marine wildlife expeditions aboard a research-equipped vessel
- A speedboat service departing Viaduct Harbour and traversing the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park to locate whales and dolphins
- An educational program featuring live scientific commentary and a complimentary rebooking guarantee in the event of no sightings
What is so special about Auckland Whale & Dolphin Tour for with kids?
- Interactive wildlife bingo keeps kids engaged.
- Hands-on marine science activities with experts.
- Panoramic deck views of gulf islands and landmarks.
- Indoor cabin offers shelter and seating.
- Sightings guarantee for peace of mind.
Recommended visit duration: 4.5-5 hours
Why 4.5-5 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the boat ride, interactive kid games, and a post-trip science talk without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Auckland Whale & Dolphin Tour
Join the wildlife bingo:
Play the crew’s 'spot-the-species' bingo to hunt for dolphins and whales.
Tip: Bring a clipboard and pencil so kids can mark sightings easily.
Explore the open deck:
Enjoy 360° views of Rangitoto Island, the Harbour Bridge, and the Hauraki Gulf.
Tip: Dress in layers and wear non-slip shoes for safety on deck.
Help with marine research:
Take part in data logging and plankton sampling alongside marine scientists.
Tip: Ask for a front-row spot at the science station for the best view.
Attend the post-trip talk:
Listen to a 15-minute presentation on the species you saw after returning to shore.
Tip: Gather near the indoor cabin exit so you don’t miss the start.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Auckland Whale & Dolphin Tour
- Book a morning tour: Early departures often have calmer seas and more active wildlife.
- Reserve research seats: Arrive early to choose seats near the science station and bingo area.
- Bring binoculars: Compact binoculars help kids see distant dolphins and seabirds clearly.
Reviews of Auckland Whale & Dolphin Tour
Kingston CONT
I had the most amazing experience sailing with Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari. From the very beginning, the crew impressed me, they are not only friendly and welcoming but also highly professional, clearly passionate about what they do. As we departed from the dock, we were treated to stunning views of Auckland’s skyline, with its iconic buildings standing proudly in the distance. The coastal sc...
Christina Tse
Had the most amazing once in a lifetime experience on this safari. We were booked on a weekend cruise but due to weather it was cancelled but it was super easy to rebook onto another day which went ahead and it was AMAZING!!! We were extremely lucky that day to see hundreds of dolphins in a feeding frenzy where many whales came to feed ( we saw about 10/11 whales that day!) they did say this wasn’...
Michael Bachmann
Absolutely BRILLIANT. The crew were fantastic, the boat had a lot of viewing areas and we managed to see a pod of Bottlenose dolphins on the way out, then saw around 11 whales (including a mother and calf), a Common Dolphin feeding frenzy with multiple whale breaches through the fish that the dolphins gathered. The crew were as exited as us when we saw the whales and dolphins and the commentary t...
Merrin Gemmell
A well-run experience with stellar communication From the moment I booked, the communication was outstanding—clear updates via email and genuine care throughout. Today was an absolutely beautiful day for the safari, and while we didn’t have any sightings this time, the team handled it thoughtfully. Everyone was personally spoken to and offered a voucher for another trip, which I really appreciate...
Reenum Gounden
Amazing experience – educational and unforgettable! I absolutely loved the Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari! The crew were super knowledgeable and passionate about marine life, which made the whole experience even more meaningful. We were lucky enough to see a huge pod of dolphins swimming alongside the boat — such a beautiful sight! we also spotted a few whales. the team explained everything clea...
When is the best time to visit Auckland Whale & Dolphin Tour (Auckland, New Zealand)?
Summer (Dec–Feb) brings calmer seas and warmer weather. Spring (Sep–Nov) sees migrating whales. Winter trips may be rougher; pack windproof jackets.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Family pass (2 adults + 2 kids) | NZD 639 |
| Onboard snacks and drinks | NZD 40 |
| Round-trip transport to Viaduct Harbour | NZD 30 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 709 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Auckland Whale & Dolphin Tour
Address: Berth 9, Eastern Viaduct Marina, Auckland Central, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
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About Auckland Whale & Dolphin Tour
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+64 508 365 744Explore Popular Things to Do
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