Auckland · CRUISES & BOAT TOURS
20 tours
The Waitematā is why Auckland is called the City of Sails, and the fleet on it runs from retired America’s Cup yachts to dinner catamarans. These 15 cruises are the best of the bunch, with sailing times, whether you get to help crew, and what the food and drink adds to the fare.
4.5-hour Auckland eco safari from Viaduct Harbour to spot whales, dolphins, seals, penguins, and rare seabirds with marine research scientists.
“Nice views of the harbor and seeing dolphins. No whales however. All over a worth while and fun experience.”
Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf whale and dolphin eco cruise aboard the Dolphin Explorer, with expert science and a free return if no mammals.
“Great cruise. The crew were very knowledgeable and allowed us plenty of time to see the dolphins up close. We also saw a few whales in the distance. Thank you!”
Sunset cruise on Auckland Harbour with a 3-course dinner aboard a 50-foot yacht, live commentary, jackets, skyline views.
“Great experience first timer on a sail boat and water, even though the weather was cold and rainy. The two were great, drinks went down well”
Sail on a real America’s Cup yacht in Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour for hands-on steering, grinders, and skyline views in 2 hours.
“Wonderful! This was our second time in a week. This time it was a smaller group and we got to work quite a bit! We had a great time!”
See Auckland’s skyline from the water on a 90 minute Harbour Cruise, sailing under the Harbour Bridge with live English commentary. $35.
“It was relaxing and informative. One of the best cruises I have ever been on. We loved it”
Sail Waitemata Harbour on a 50ft yacht with a 3-course dinner from The Lula Inn, plus city lights, local stories, and winter gear.
“It was fantastic - it was a beautiful evening on Auckland Harbour - the skipper Noel was so so good and was supported brilliantly by Oscar and Jess (sorry if her name wasn’t Jess) Highly recommend this activity.”
90-minute sailing on Auckland's Waitematā Harbour with coffee, ponchos, and live commentary past the Harbour Bridge.
“So thrilled I got to do this, well worth it, loved going out under the Harbour Bridge. Would definitely do again next time I'm up this way.”
Sail an America’s Cup racing-class yacht on Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour, with hands-on helm time, skyline views, and pro crew commentary.
“So this review has two parts. First, the sail on the boats was amazing. Got to pilot the boat as well as work as a grinder; great experience. The crew was entertaining and had appropriate emphasis on safety. Felt very comfortable. Second, I had originally booked for 2, then later amended the count to 4. I paid for 4 via the viator app and got confirmation of payment and 4 people. When arrived at provider location, they didn't show the amended list, only the original two. Evidently there was an issue between the provider and viator. The provider tried to contact viator to resolve the issue, but had to wait…”
Auckland Tikapa Moana whale and dolphin cruise with an island stop at Rotoroa or Waiheke, plus a marine mammal sighting guarantee.
“Went on the Tikapa Moana Whales, Dolphins and Island Cruise with the stopover at Man O' War Vineyard at 13:10. Had a great time and would highly recommend! Just a few things to be aware of: There is about 2 hours initially of just sitting on the boat watching the waves as you have to get out of Auckland harbour and drop off people on other tours- quite pleasant if its a nice day but can get a bit choppy/cold on a windy day so come prepared for any weather and would not recommend if you get travel sick. We were lucky the day after a storm and just had…”
Auckland Harbour cruise from 107 Quay Street with live commentary, skyline and bridge views, plus an easy 90-minute loop.
“If you are not in Auckland for long this cruise is really worthwhile to see a lot in a short time. Also good as an introduction. We are going back for a closer look at Devonport. Wonderful views of the city skyline. More outdoor space on the top deck would be better.”
Sail Auckland Harbour from Viaduct on a 90-minute yacht cruise with views, live commentary, jackets, and a drink and cookie included.
“My husband and I had a wonderful time on the sailing cruise. We had delightful weather. Our captain and the first mate were great! Very friendly guys. I got to steer the ship, which was so cool. This was a wonderful way to spend the afternoon and see Auckland from a different perspective in a nice, casual and relaxing way. Thank you for a great cruise!”
Glass-bottom boat tour in Goat Island Marine Reserve near Auckland. See fish close-up, cruise caves and the Key Hole. No wet gear.
“Very knowledgeable guide, lots to see but unfortunately not that many fish, still a beautiful place and would go again”
Small-group Bay of Islands cruise and Northland culture from Auckland, incl. Kauri Museum, Waitangi, and optional Paihia stay. Wildlife spotting.
“This tour was excellent covering all our interest with an exceptional guide Matt Van Veen. Matt was excellent and gave lot of information.”
An exclusive catamaran sail from Waiheke to the Hauraki Gulf for wildlife spotting, hands-on sailing, and swimming and snorkeling time.
“Absolutely fabulous day out in the Hauraki Gulf. Snorkeling, paddleboarding, doubles kayak, great food, great boat. The skipper Peter and his assistant, Renee we gracious hosts. We all had an amazing day. Highly recommend this for anyone. We were part of a 21st and it was just a truly wonderful day for us all.”
Eco sailing from Waiheke on Pacific Star: pest-free island walk, snorkel and SUP included, plus Hauraki Gulf wildlife sightings.
“Wind and sailing were excellent. Captain Bruce let us sail quite a bit. We also had a walk on Tiritiri Matangi island that had amazing birds and views. His lunch spread was also top-notch.”
