Auckland Eco-Marine Safari: Dolphins & Whales Up-Close Cruise

The seas on that day were rough, my friend. Away from the George Costanza quote, the sea off Auckland was pretty rough on the day we’d scheduled our dolphin and whale outing with the Eco Safari crew but we were forewarned and offered alternatives. In spite of the seas, the cruise was very well attended. The first few hours of the cruise were looking unsuccessfully in likely places for dolphins and/or whales. We particularly looked at where the gannets and gulls were congregating to feast from huge transient schools of small fish. The crew’s knowledge, experience and patience paid off toward the end of the cruise when dozens of dolphins started streaking through a giant bait ball adjacent to our position, identified by the sea birds. We had a front row seat to the fascinating show and the captain kept us front-and-center to the frenzied action for over 30 minutes. We were on the upper deck where the wave action was more pronounced but we did fine and were no issues with us with seasickness. The entire crew were friendly and very knowledgeable about our environment and prey species. Even if we hadn’t seen these marine mammals, it was a nice, enjoyable cool day on the water.

Had an amazing time and saw so many dolphins! Even got to experience the ocean from up close 😂 (got a little drenched). Would highly recommend!

Great experience, Lots of dolphins, friendly and informative Crew, everything I could hope for (except whale sightings but thats nature for you I guess)

Had good weather and we went so far out past Warkworth. Felt a little sick but not too bad. Saw many dolphins and birds, unfortunately no whales though we had kept trying. Cool boat and just loved going into the Waītemata and never been on the Hauraki Gulf. Awesome experience nga mihi=thank you.

Had an absolutely amazing time! Managed to get some amazing video of the Dolphins playing at the front of the boat which was so impressive. Sadly no Whales on the day, maybe next time. Crew were very friendly, helpful and knowlegable makung the experience very rewarding. We would highly recommend this activity to anybody visiting Auckland, you wont be disapointed.

Great trip to see New Zealand from the water. We saw dolphins galore! But beware, the front deck is the very spot when underway!

Informative, fun. Crew excellent, Elise, Kelly (Kayla?) , Graham, Emily , Britney. They were all helpful and knowledgeable.

The experience was beautiful from start to finish. The staff is very kind, friendly and knowledgeable. One observation: calling it a “Whale Watching” Safari is misleading as the chances of spotting a whale are VERY slim according to an employee who’s been in the business 40 years. He mentioned he’s only seen whales ten times. But the wildlife you do see, like the dolphins and birds, are beautiful. Plus you get a real nice view of the different islands! Thanks again team for the unique and wonderful experience.

Wonderful start to finish with excellent staff, more dolphins than I ever expected and endless beautiful views all around the gulf. Can’t recommend this highly enough!

I highly recommend this crew. They were incredibly kind and knowledgeable. We had two whale sightings and saw multiple dolphin pods during our January 6th afternoon safari. This trip was truly memorable and well worth it.