Bay Explorer - Dolphin and Wildlife Cruises 120 The Strand, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty 3110

"What a fantastic day out. Brandon and Josh will go the extra mile (we probably went more) to make sure you find wildlife and ensure you get the "Oh wow" experience. Today there were lots of oh wow moments and I can't recommend this team enough. 5 stars is not enough but thank you Brandon & Josh for such an amazing experience and making my daughter feel special by getting her to an encounter she may never experience in her lifetime."

"Awesome trip! What a great staff and we saw lots of beautiful dolphins. There was not too many people out on the day we went which was nice also. I only wish the top deck of the boat was covered, I got a little too much sun. Highly recommend them though! I got some cracking photos from the trip for sure."

"Hubby, 2 kids and I headed out on this cruise today around 8.30ish. It was a blessed day! The day started beautifully with no swells at all. This helped us get out to where we needed to be. In almost no time (10am) at all we were amongst the dolphins and it was spectacular! We also got to see a pod of orcas on the way back and a seal and a couple of penguins. Thank you to our Skipper, Brandon and also to Josh. They are so passionate and are always keeping an eye out to spot these majestic creatures. The boat is a great size with almost a 360 view and the facilities were always kept clean. If you booking a day out I would highly recommend Bay Explorer!!"

"It was fantastic to go out today on Bay Explorer - Dolphin and Wildlife Cruise. Not only is it just an unbelievably awesome day out on the waters of the Bay of Plenty, but we start the day with a view not usually seen from land, of Trinity Wharf Tauranga, the Tauranga waterfront, the Port of Tauranga, and cruise ships berthed at Mount Maunganui. The crew, with skipper/owner Brandon Stone, are top professionals around health and safety, and with keeping on time with collecting passengers at the Tauranga waterfront. Brandon has a well-liked 'laid back' demeanour, but behind this casual relaxed approach that puts everyone at ease, is a commitment to New Zealand's high maritime standards that leave you in no doubt that he's got everything planned and covered. After an introductory talk and health/safety briefing, plus some jokes along the way, it's time to leave the Tauranga waterfront and head to the Tauranga harbour entrance, past Mount Maunganui, and out into the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, Brandon provides knowledgable and informative commentary across loud speakers that can be heard on both lower and upper decks. He tells his passengers how to keep an eye out for any sightings of marine life, while he and his crew are also watching through binoculars. For us today it was mere minutes from leaving the harbour, before we were surrounded by dolphins. We also saw little blue penguins, shearwater birds skimming along just above the surface of the water, and hammerhead sharks. Previously on other trips on Bay Explorer I've seen albatross, huge sunfish and whales. All the necessary amenities are aboard, and you can either bring your own lunch or order one prior to the trip. There is also a bar on board. When marine life is spotted, Bay Explorer slows down, providing opportunity for passengers to go up to the bow and see things up close in the water below. Today's trip was to go and view wildlife, but other trips I've been on with Bay Explorer there have been opportunities to swim and visit closer to Mayor and Motiti Islands. There are also evening cruises available after dinner at Trinity Wharf. Groups can book private functions, in fact there are so many ways to experience and enjoy either a harbour cruise or a dolphin and wildlife cruise out onto the Pacific Ocean, and it's perfect for any age group. The Bay Explorer experience is at the top of things to do in Tauranga, in my view, and the crew work exceptionally hard to ensure every person has a unique and memorable experience. I would go every day if I could, it's just superb."