Your half-day Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise begins as you’re welcomed aboard the Bay Explorer at Tauranga waterfront jetty. You will spend the cruise exploring the pristine Bay of Plenty coastline and islands, where we will showcase the amazing diversity of Tauranga’s marine wildlife. With dolphins swimming alongside our vessel, it’s the best way to see dolphins in Tauranga. Watch seasonal seabirds, penguins, seals, whales, sunfish, school fish, sharks, orcas… even turtles!
Our Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise offers an authentic Kiwi experience amidst nature—a tale of human fascination with marine life. Join us in exploring the wonders of dolphins and more while searching from the spacious top deck. We limit passengers for comfort, ensuring a personal touch, is ideal for families.
Our knowledgeable captain and crew share their marine insights through engaging commentary, ensuring you won’t miss a thing! It’s a shared, once-in-a-lifetime experience, perfect for photographers.
Come aboard the Bay Explorer, Tauranga’s premier wildlife cruise, and discover why it’s a must for those seeking things to do in Tauranga. You’ll be back by 2:00 pm, leaving you the afternoon to explore the beautiful Bay of Plenty or continue your travels.
Inclusions
- A half day dolphin & wildlife watching cruise on our spacious 18 metre vessel, with 360° outdoor views.
- Onboard commentary and references with facts on the Bay and local marine wildlife.
- Our friendly, professional Bay Explorer Crew
Extras
- Food and beverage available to purchase on board
- Transfers to and from accommodation
Highlights
- Comfortable fully enclosed seating downstairs and a large open sun-deck for wildlife watching
- Some of the best marine diversity in New Zealand
- Close-up encounters with seasonal marine wildlife – dolphins, whales, penguins, seals, sunfish, school fish, seabirds, sharks, turtles and orca
Time
- Please check-in at 8:30am for a briefing at 8:45am
- Tours depart at 9am and return to Tauranga between 1pm-2pm
Departure Location
- Tauranga Waterfront Jetty, 120 The Strand, Tauranga (Corner of wharf street and the Strand, opposite the Starbucks Cafe)
What To Bring
- Camera
- Water bottle
- Sun protection
- Warm clothing, layered clothing is advised year round
Additional Information
- Food and beverages are available for purchase with cash and Eftpos onboard the vessel
- Guests may preorder lunch direct with the operator once a booking has been secured
- Transfers may be booked direct with the operator once a booking has been secured
- Bathroom facilities are available onboard the vessel
- The operator reserves the right to cancel tours in the interest of guest safety
- Guests who are no-shows are not entitled to any refunds
- As tours operate within a natural environment the operator cannot guarantee animal sightings
Booking Information
- Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking
- Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of the experience
- Mobile Vouchers are accepted! - Vouchers can also be presented on your mobile device for this attraction
- For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher
- Availability was accurate at the time of booking however, is subject to change due to circumstances out of our control
- We strongly suggest reconfirming your booking with the tour operator within 24 hours of making your booking and prior to making other travel arrangements