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Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise

North Island

Experiences

Cruises

Nature & Wildlife

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

North Island

Start: Tauranga

Locations: Tauranga, Mount Maunganui

Duration: 1 day

Travel Time: 5 hours

Journey Through the Bay of Plenty’s Wild Side

Setting off from the Tauranga waterfront jetty, this half-day Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise lets you explore the stunning Bay of Plenty coastline. As you glide across the water, you’ll have the chance to see dolphins playfully surfing alongside the boat. From penguins to seals and even whales, every trip brings a new encounter with New Zealand’s remarkable sea life.

The Bay Explorer’s spacious top deck gives you panoramic views of the coast and open ocean. With limited passenger numbers, everyone gets the perfect spot for wildlife viewing and photography. Families especially love the relaxed pace, making it a great day out for travellers of all ages.

Bay Explorer docked at Tauranga waterfront

Pair of dolphins swimming just below the surface

Guest sipping wine while cruising the ocean

Fur seal resting on the rocks near Tauranga

Guest taking wildlife photos from the deck

Pod of dolphins swimming in clear blue water

New Zealand fur seal swimming in calm waters

Guest watching dolphins swim by the boat

Whale tail diving below the surface near Tauranga

Dolphins bow riding beneath the Bay Explorer

Close-up of a common dolphin breaking the water’s surface

Passenger watching dolphins from the bow of the Bay Explorer

Fluttering shearwaters taking off from the sea surface

Passenger jumping off the Bay Explorer into the sea

Pod of common dolphins jumping through the waves

Close-up of two dolphins swimming beside the boat

Orca breaching the surface off the coast of Tauranga

Leatherback turtle surfacing in Bay of Plenty waters

Experience the Spirit of Kiwi Coastal Adventure

The knowledgeable captain and crew share fascinating stories about Tauranga’s marine world, adding insight to every sighting. Their commentary brings the Bay’s ecosystems to life, ensuring you won’t miss a moment of the action. It’s not just a cruise – it’s a chance to connect with the natural beauty that defines New Zealand’s coastal charm.

When the journey concludes by mid-afternoon, you’ll return to shore refreshed and inspired. With the rest of the day ahead, you can explore Tauranga’s cafes, beaches, or local attractions. This memorable experience is one you’ll treasure long after leaving the Bay of Plenty.

INCLUSIONS

Join us for a 5 to 6-hour dolphin and wildlife watching cruise on our spacious 18-metre boat, offering 360-degree outdoor views.
Enjoy comfortable indoor seating downstairs and a large open sun deck for wildlife spotting.
Experience some of the finest marine diversity in New Zealand.
Get up close with seasonal marine wildlife such as dolphins, whales, penguins, seals, sunfish, school fish, seabirds, sharks, turtles, and orcas.
Quench your thirst with cold beer and regional wines from our licensed bar, and we also offer non-alcoholic beverages (Eftpos available).
Choose from food options onboard or feel free to bring your own lunch and snacks.
Listen to onboard commentary and learn interesting facts about the Bay and local marine wildlife.
Meet our friendly and professional Bay Explorer Crew.
Capture memories with photos of a lifetime!