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North Island

Start: Auckland Viaduct Harbour
Location: Auckland
Duration: 1.5 hours

The Auckland Harbour Sailing Cruise departs Viaduct Harbour daily at 3.15pm for a 90-minute yacht trip around Waitematā Harbour, returning about 4.45pm. The full 90 minutes are spent on the water, with no stop ashore, passing the city skyline and Harbour Bridge. Crew commentary, a choice of tea, coffee or hot chocolate, and a sweet treat are included. Guests can help hoist the sails or take the helm. It suits families of all ages and first-time sailors.

A stunning aerial view of Auckland Harbour Bridge, the marina, and the city skyline on a clear day

Sail Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour

Set sail from the heart of Auckland and discover why the City of Sails is best experienced from the water. As the yacht moves through Waitematā Harbour, enjoy views back towards the city skyline and get a unique perspective of the Auckland Harbour Bridge and the volcanic peaks that shape the surrounding landscape. It’s an easy way to add a genuine sailing experience to an Auckland itinerary without taking up an entire day.

A sailing yacht gliding through Auckland Harbour with the iconic Sky Tower and city skyline in the background

You can make the cruise as active or relaxed as you like. Join the crew and try your hand at hoisting the sails, or simply find a comfortable spot on board and watch Auckland drift by. Hot drinks and a sweet treat add to the laid-back atmosphere, making this 90-minute cruise a memorable option for couples, families and travellers wanting to experience Auckland beyond the city streets.

  • Adults: 16 years and older
  • Children: 5-15 years old
  • Infants (free): 0-4 years
  • More than 24 hours before departure: Full refund**
  • Within 24 hours: No refund

**Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

The Auckland Harbour Sailing Cruise focuses on relaxed daytime sightseeing and optional hands-on sailing within Waitematā Harbour. Travellers looking for an evening experience may prefer the Auckland Harbour Dinner Cruise, which combines sailing with a three-course meal. For a longer wildlife and island experience, consider the Tikapa Moana Whale, Dolphin and Islands Cruise.

The relaxed 90-minute cruise is a family-friendly way to introduce children to Auckland’s maritime character without committing to a full day on the water. Families can enjoy changing harbour views, watch the crew handle the yacht and relax with a hot drink and sweet treat. The cruise can also be included within a longer 5 Day Auckland Family Escape.

Yes. Guests can help the crew hoist the sails and experience some of the excitement of sailing across Waitematā Harbour, although participation is completely optional. If you would prefer an even more active sailing adventure, the America’s Cup Sailing Experience lets participants help work the grinders, take the helm or simply relax aboard an authentic racing yacht.

The cruise offers a different perspective of Auckland’s skyline, waterfront precincts and surrounding volcanic landscape. Depending on the sailing conditions, you may pass close to the Auckland Harbour Bridge and enjoy views towards the harbour islands and volcanic peaks. Discover more ways to experience the City of Sails with these Auckland sailing tours.

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