Tauranga based tourism operator Bay Explorer has launched a new half-day tour showcasing Bay of Plenty marine life. The Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise is tailored to customers wanting an authentic experience in nature.

Owner and skipper Brandon Stone says that the tour is a “shared once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows people to discover marine animals in their natural habitat.”

“Our new Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise is ideal for families and travellers. The half-day cruise allows people to bond and connect whilst watching the Bay of Plenty’s diverse marine life do the same.”

“Visitors are likely to see dolphins and seals, and possibly penguins, turtles and whales.”

Departing from the waterfront jetty on the corner of The Strand and Wharf Streets in Tauranga, tours take guests on a cruise of the Bay of Plenty coastline and islands. The 9 am to 2 pm tour is spent searching for seasonal marine wildlife such as dolphins, orca, whales, sharks, seals, sunfish, school fish, turtles, penguins and seabirds.

The captain and crew provide commentary on the marine wildlife, geography and history of the Bay of Plenty.

Tourism Bay of Plenty Chief Executive Officer Kristin Dunne welcomes the new tour offering to the region.

“We’re working closely with new and existing tourism businesses to develop offerings that showcase what makes our region unique. The marine life that Bay Explorer enables visitors to connect with certainly does that.”

“We encourage tourism businesses to consider the environment they plan to operate in when developing their offerings. I am proud of Bay Explorer’s respectful consideration of marine life and the ocean.”

“Tours that celebrate our unique environment such as Bay Explorer’s Island & Wildlife Cruise create lifelong memories for our visitors.”

The Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise is available to book online at www.bayexplorer.co.nz through REZDY. Bookings are available from September to May and group bookings are available year-round.

The Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise includes:

A half day cruise on the spacious 18-metre Bay Explorer vessel.
Fully enclosed seating and an open sundeck for wildlife watching with 360° outdoor views.
Close up encounters with seasonal marine wildlife including dolphins, orca, whales, sharks, seals, sunfish, school fish, turtles, penguins and seabirds.
Cold beer and chilled regional wines from the licenced bar (EFTPOS available).
Food is available onboard, or guests are welcome to bring their own lunch and snacks.
Onboard commentary and references with facts on the Bay of Plenty and local marine wildlife.
What: New half-day Island & Wildlife Cruise of the Bay of Plenty coastline and islands onboard the Bay Explorer.

Where: Departs from the waterfront jetty, corner of The Strand and Wharf Streets, Tauranga.

When: Check in at 8:30 am for 9 am departure. Approximate return time is 2 pm.

Prices: Adult $130.00; Child (Age 6-12) $75.00; Infant (5 and under) $20.00.

Owner: Brandon Stone

Email: info@bayexplorer.co.nz

Mobile: +64 21 605 968