Auckland Harbour Sailing Experience

Discover the wonders of Auckland Harbour through the Auckland Harbour Sailing Experience. This 1.5-hour cruise departs from the Viaduct Harbour, offering guests breathtaking views of iconic landmarks like the Auckland Bridge and Devonport. With a maximum capacity of 18 travelers, the intimate setting allows for personalized service and active participation in sailing activities or simply relaxing. Complement the journey with complimentary tea, coffee, or hot chocolate, while the knowledgeable crew provides live commentary to enhance the experience. Whether you’re a sailing enthusiast or simply seeking a unique adventure, this cruise promises to leave you captivated by the beauty of Waitemata Harbour.

This experience made our list of the 19 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Auckland.

Key Points

• A 1.5-hour scenic cruise aboard a yacht from Viaduct Harbour, offering stunning views of Auckland’s landmarks and the Waitemata Harbour.
• Opportunity for guests to actively participate in sailing activities or relax and enjoy the live commentary from the experienced crew.
• Complimentary tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and sweet treats provided, with a cash bar available for additional purchases.
• Intimate experience with a maximum capacity of 18 travelers, ensuring a personalized and comfortable journey.
• Flexible booking options, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Sailing Cruise Overview

Departing from the Viaduct Harbour, the Auckland Harbour Sailing Experience offers a captivating 1.5-hour cruise aboard a yacht, showcasing the stunning Waitemata Harbour and its iconic landmarks.

Guests can choose to sit back and relax or assist the experienced crew in sailing the vessel, providing an interactive and immersive experience.

As the yacht glides across the water, passengers will be treated to breathtaking views of the Auckland Bridge, Westhaven Marina, and the picturesque suburb of Devonport.

Complementing the scenic journey, the cruise includes complimentary tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and a sweet treat, ensuring a well-rounded and enjoyable outing on the water.

Cruise Departure and Route

The Auckland Harbour Sailing Experience departs from the Viaduct Harbour, allowing guests to embark on a captivating 1.5-hour cruise through the stunning Waitemata Harbour.

As the yacht sets sail, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of Auckland’s iconic landmarks, including the Auckland Bridge and the picturesque Devonport.

The experienced crew provides live commentary, sharing insights and history about the sights along the way.

Throughout the journey, guests can choose to actively participate in the sailing or simply sit back and relax, taking in the serene beauty of the harbor.

With a maximum capacity of 18 travelers, the cruise offers an intimate and personalized experience, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to fully enjoy the beauty of Auckland’s waterfront.

Guest Participation and Amenities

Throughout the 1.5-hour sailing experience, guests can choose to actively participate in the operation of the yacht or simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the complimentary tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and sweet treat provided on board.

The crew offers live commentary during the tour, sharing insights about the notable sights along the way. Plus, the cruise includes the use of windproof and waterproof jackets, ensuring guests’ comfort regardless of weather conditions.

The on-board bar offers a selection of cash and EFTPOS/credit card purchases for those interested in additional refreshments.

With a maximum capacity of 18 travelers, the experience give you an intimate and personalized sailing adventure on Waitemata Harbour.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Guests embark on their Auckland Harbour sailing experience at the Explore Group – Auckland, located on Quay Street in the Viaduct, Auckland 1010, New Zealand. The tour departs and returns to this same location, with a start time of 3:15 pm.

The sailing experience accommodates a maximum of 18 travelers per tour, ensuring an intimate and personalized adventure. For added convenience, hotel pickup and drop-off services are available.

At the end of the 1.5-hour cruise, guests disembark at the Explore Group’s departure point, having thoroughly enjoyed their time on the picturesque Waitemata Harbour.

Cruise Inclusions and Exclusions

Aboard the sailing cruise, guests can enjoy a range of complimentary amenities, including live commentary from the knowledgeable crew and the use of windproof and waterproof jackets to stay comfortable during the journey.

While the tour doesn’t include any meals, a cash and EFTPOS/credit card bar is available on board for guests to purchase additional refreshments and snacks.

The experience also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, providing flexibility for travelers.

Key inclusions and exclusions are:

1. Complimentary tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and a sweet treat

2. Cash and EFTPOS/Credit Card bar on board (at extra cost)

3. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts

Cancellation and Confirmation Policy

Auckland Harbour Sailing Experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the experience, providing travelers with flexibility in their booking.

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, ensuring a seamless process.

The cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible, but a toilet is available on board for passenger convenience.

With a maximum of 18 travelers per tour, guests can expect a personalized and intimate sailing experience.

This policy allows travelers to plan their schedules with confidence, knowing they can easily make changes if necessary.

Guest Reviews and Ratings

The Auckland Harbour Sailing Experience has accumulated a total of 49 reviews, earning an impressive overall rating of 4.5 stars.

Guests have consistently praised the knowledgeable crew, the beautiful views, and the overall enjoyable sailing experience.

However, some reviewers have noted a few minor issues, such as the visibility of the live commentary due to wind and the boat’s layout, as well as mixed experiences regarding the passenger capacity, with some finding it a bit crowded.

The reviews paint a positive picture of this sailing tour, with the majority of guests thoroughly enjoying their time on the water.

The crew’s expertise, the stunning scenery, and the relaxing atmosphere seem to be the highlights of this Auckland adventure.

Pricing and Booking Options

Pricing for the Auckland Harbour Sailing Experience starts from NZ$55.54, offering a lowest price guarantee to ensure guests get the best value for their money.

Flexible booking options are available, including the ability to reserve now and pay later, providing customers with convenient and hassle-free arrangements.

The tour operator, Explore Group, makes it easy for travelers to secure their spot on this popular harbour cruise.

Bookings can be made online through the company’s website, allowing customers to choose their preferred sailing time and date.

With a maximum capacity of 18 passengers, the Auckland Harbour Sailing Experience offers an intimate and personalized excursion on the beautiful Waitemata Harbour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Cruise?

There is no minimum age requirement stated for this cruise. The experience is open to all ages, though infants and young children may require additional supervision due to the nature of being on the open water.

Are Life Jackets Provided for All Passengers?

Yes, life jackets are provided for all passengers on the cruise. The experience provider ensures the safety of guests by supplying proper safety equipment in accordance with local regulations.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on Board?

Yes, passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on board. However, a cash bar is available on the cruise for additional purchases. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific policies.

Is There an Option for a Private or Group Booking?

Yes, the experience offers private and group booking options. Guests can book the entire yacht for a private sailing experience or join a group tour with a maximum of 18 travelers, providing flexibility to suit different party sizes and preferences.

What Happens in Case of Inclement Weather?

In the event of inclement weather, the sailing tour operator typically cancels or reschedules the experience for the safety of passengers. Refunds or rebookings are generally offered to accommodate the weather conditions.

Recap

The Auckland Harbour Sailing Experience offers a delightful and immersive 1.5-hour cruise on Waitemata Harbour.

Guests can enjoy breathtaking views, participate in sailing activities, and relax while sipping complimentary beverages.

With a small group size and knowledgeable crew, this cruise provides a memorable adventure that’s perfect for both visitors and locals alike.