Discover Tikapa Moana - the Hauraki Gulf with us as we cruise through the myriad of islands, spot wildlife and learn about the cultural footprint of Tamaki Makaurau!
Make your way through this stunning landscape including the volcanic peak of Rangitoto and island sanctuaries Motutapu and Tiritiri Matangi. Hear about the conservation programmes on many of these islands that are regenerating flora and fauna, and reintroducing native species.
Spot the locals! You'll see a variety of marine wildlife in their natural habitat including whales, dolphins, seals, penguins, birdlife and more from our comfortable cruise vessel purpose-built for wildlife viewing.
As part of your cruise, you can discover one of our island destinations with your choice of island stop at Rotoroa Island or Man O' War, Waiheke Island - take the opportunity to stretch your legs, swim in a sheltered bay and discover wine or wildlife. (no Island Stop is available on our 11:30am departure on weekends)
Operating in partnership with Ngāi Tai Te Haerenga, throughout your cruise you will hear the fascinating origins and histories of the land, sea and Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki – original inhabitants of Tāmaki Makaurau.
All prices are shown in NZD ($)
Many dolphins however too many side stops
must experience once in a lifetime
If you want to waste your time and money then go ahead and book this crusie. My booking was cancelled twice without any notice. I had called their office a day earlier to reconfirm if cruise is still on and was informed that cruise will definitely operate. Had booked uber and paid more then $50 to reach the pier only to be told on desk that trip is canceled. I asked the lady at the counter why werent we informed and she advised they in process of contacting customers. This lady is telling me at 08.45 am that they in process to inform customers that trip is canceled. If customers are to inform 24hrs prior fr cancellation why cant cmpany do the same. Had taken day off and wasted money on uber , asked if the cmpny can atleast refund 1 way uber on which cmpny advised they are not obliged as per fine writings on their conditions. Never going to trust this cruise and would highly recommend anyone reading this to never book as if number if traveooers are low 9/10 the cruise will b cancelled and youll be told excuses fr bad weather or swells at sea, while other cruise are running fine. If once cruise is canceled I'd understand but when it happens twice within a week theres something fishy . Just avoid this cruise unless you want to waste your time and money. Its just not worth it. Lady at the counter told me to send email together with uber cost and it shall be refunded but it never happened. Disgrace to New Zealanders and tourists.
I recently went on the Tikapa Moana Cruise with Explore Group, and it was an amazing experience! The boat was very comfortable, with plenty of space to sit and move around. The crew was friendly, knowledgeable, and made sure everyone was having a great time. The best part of the trip was seeing dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. It was incredible to watch them swim so close to the boat! The guides gave us lots of interesting information about the marine life and the Hauraki Gulf. The cruise was well-organized, and everything ran smoothly. I highly recommend this trip to anyone who loves nature and wants to experience Auckland’s wildlife up close. Thank you to the Explore Group team for an unforgettable day!
Copyright © 2025 Bookme Limited.
joannes15 from New Zealand wrote on 22 March 2025
Whale & Dolphin Cruise
Absolutely love this cruise. Done this 4 times now & with family too when they've visited from England. Unfortunately we haven't seen any whales yet but keep on hoping for the next time ❤️