New Zealand’s #1 rated beach destination and base for Bay Explorer is an easy 60 minute drive from Rotorua.

Our Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise is tailored to those wanting a genuine kiwi experience in nature. It’s a story about our human intrigue with amazing marine animals and their habitat. The cruise explores the pristine Bay of Plenty coastline and islands, showcasing the amazing diversity of marine wildlife, including dolphins swimming alongside our vessel!

Transport Options

If you are unable to drive yourself, we offer our own transport service between Rotorua and Tauranga. Return and one-way transport options are available at the checkout.

Self Drive: Leave Rotorua by 7:30am, aiming to arrive at the port by 8:30am. For directions, you can use the map provided with your booking. Parking options are also provided.

Rotorua Pick Up: Meet our driver at 7:30am outside the Rotorua booking office at 1144 Hinemoa Street (Keep your eye out for the large dolphin banner). You’ll then travel the scenic journey from Rotorua to Tauranga. The drive will take you past a number of lakes, through forests and farmland to the Port of Tauranga. On arrival, you will join the crew aboard the Bay Explorer, where your access to nature begins! If you select the return transfer, you will begin your journey back to Rotorua at the conclusion of your cruise.

#1 Rated on Trip Advisor

Bay Explorer is one of the top ecotourism experiences in the Bay of Plenty. Participate by searching on the large top deck for those once in a lifetime wildlife encounters. Look out for dolphins, seasonal seabirds, penguins, seals, whales, sunfish, school fish, sharks, orca… even turtles!

The captain and experienced crew are passionate about sharing their marine knowledge with you, and will provide fascinating commentary throughout the cruise. They’ll also be sure to point out everything they see, so you won’t miss a thing! It truly is a shared lifetime experience. Don’t forget your camera, as we are able to get up close to wildlife, making it a photographer’s dream.

We have limited our passenger numbers for comfort and to enable a more personal experience. Our large spacious boat is also ideal for families. Don’t miss this premier Dolphin & Wildlife adventure. You will return to Tauranga by 2-3pm. We can’t wait to show you our big blue backyard!

The Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise includes:

• A half day cruise on our spacious 18 metre vessel with 360° outdoor views.
• 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 – penguins, seals, dolphins, whales, sunfish, school fish, seabirds, sharks, turtles and orca.
• Cold beer and chilled regional wines from our licenced bar and non-alcoholic beverages (Eftpos available).
• Food options or bring your own lunch and snacks
• Onboard commentary and references with facts on the Bay and local marine wildlife.
• Our friendly, professional Bay Explorer Crew
• Photos of a lifetime!