EXPLORE. Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari Review
Tuesday, 16 May 2017
Whether you are after a relaxing excursion, eager
to gain knowledge about the Hauraki Gulf, or simply looking to see
marine mammals, Auckland Whale
and Dolphin Safari has it all!
First and foremost, your happiness and enjoyment on
this tour is the company's number one priority. Not only did I
experience this once, but twice! The first time I boarded their
vessel,Dolphin Explorer, we began our journey but unfortunately
ended early due to engine difficulties (which I would have never
guessed due to the calm and collect demeanor of the crew). But on a
sunny day in Auckland, I had no problem sitting back and enjoying
the scenery of the Hauraki Gulf. It also helped knowing that I, as
well as everyone else, had the option to reschedule for FREE, the
company's guarantee if you do not see marine mammals! I decided to
reschedule my excursion for the following week.
Round two was even better than the first. Right
away the captain, Andy, made us feel welcomed as well as
entertained as he explained the ins and outs of the boat. Whether
we wanted to sit at the front of the vessel, have a drink or snack
(they have food and drinks available for purchase!), or sit inside
with the crew upstairs, there was plenty of space for everyone to
leave their worries behind for a few hours while out at sea.
As we made our way out into the Hauraki Gulf, Andy
explained how the crew sets off each day in search of the beloved
marine mammals. But as you may imagine, it can be difficult to find
these mammals considering they live under water. With the guidance
and knowledge of the crew, it is a team effort between the
passengers and crew to search for marine mammals. This was one of
the aspects I truly loved about the experience. Everyone was
actively involved in the process of finding the marine mammals
which made it that much more exciting when we found them!
As we observed the dolphins and whales, the crew
explained the importance of the journeys they make out to sea. The
Dolphin Explorer allows the crew to collect data about the
encountered marine mammals. By traveling with AWADS, every
passenger helps researchers protect and better understand the
Hauraki Gulf. Being able to witness marine mammals as well as help
protect them for years to come made the journey well worth it.
I went into this experience expecting to see
dolphins and whales, as most people were. But I came away with so
much more. I learned the different species found in the Hauraki
Gulf, how marine research is conducted, and my personal favorite,
how to search for marine mammals; allowing me to take my newly
learned skills with me when I find myself out at sea again! With
AWADS central location, it makes for a wonderful day trip out of
Auckland, returning to port just in time for dinner!
Reviewed by Hailey Ferko
