Waiheke Island Cruise
Take a private cruise to an island paradise full of world-class vineyards, pristine beaches, dramatic landscapes, art, and outdoor activities.
Best for
Beach trips, day parties, weddings, hens & stag dos, vineyards, shopping, culture, family day trips.
Time
1 hour 30 minutes on the boat each way, and spend 4 hours on the island. Total trip is 7 hours.
Schedule
Depart Z Pier at 10am, returning from Auckland from Matiatia Wharf at 3.30pm. Arrive home approximately 5pm.
Cost
The price depends on numbers and requirements. Enquire to book! Private charters only.
Amenities
Licensed bar, flushing toilet, eftpos, sound system, indoor and outdoor seating.
Boat capacity
The Riverhead Ferry can comfortably fit 49 passengers.
Waiheke Island offers 92kms of beautiful beaches, picturesque coast walks along clifftops, famous vineyards, seaside suburbs, and many cultural activities. Waiheke has been rated one of the top island escapes in the world and is considered Auckland's best day out. There is something for everyone in this Hauraki Gulf jewel.
The Destination
Where is it?
Located in the Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke Island is 17.7km from downtown Auckland to the port of Matiatia at the western end of the island.
What can I do?
Vineyards with world-class wine and food, shopping, beaches and walking tracks.
How do I get around?
Hire a car, get on the Hop-on Hop-off bus which meets Matiatia Wharf every 30 minutes during summer, catch a bus, or we can organise you a shuttle/taxi at your expense.
What do I need?
Sun protection, light rain jacket, good walking shoes, swimming gear, water bottle. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants to have lunch at, or stock up if you are going on a hike.
How long should I stay?
Makes a perfect day trip, but you can also stay in the many beautiful accommodation options.
The Cruise
What you'll see
You'll cruise past Auckland's coastlines, as well as other islands in the Hauraki Gulf - Motutapu, Rangitoto, Motuihe, and Browns Island.
Drop-off & pick-up
Your pick-up location is Z Pier, Westhaven Marina. Find out how to get to us here.
Onboard the ferry
Play your own music using our AUX sound system, while you watch the beautiful Hauraki Gulf sail past you. You'll have access to seating in the back and front of the boat, with comfortable indoor couches available to relax too.Please note: doorways on our vessel are 45 centimeters wide (0.45 meters). Please wear soft, comfortable, and supportive shoes — no gumboots, penny heels, and work boots.
Food & Drink
Enjoy the range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages from our licensed bar, as well as bar snacks available for purchase. Self-catering for food required. We recommend the Cater Station, or bring your own food to grill on our Weber BBQ. BYO food is free of charge. Eftpos available!
Refunds & Cancellations
Please note the date and time you've requested is still available to others until the deposit or the total amount is paid. Your booking is confirmed when we receive the deposit amount. All our cruises are designed with your safety and comfort in mind. In the event of bad weather, we may have to cancel the charter in the interests of your safety. If we need to cancel your trip due to bad weather we will re-schedule your cruise for a new date or offer a full refund. When booking, a refundable deposit is required for up to 28 days before departure. Full payment is due 28 days before the date or paid in full if booking within 28 days before your chosen date. Once full payment has been made, it will not be refunded if the charter is cancelled. If you need to cancel the charter due to unforeseen circumstances we can reschedule the charter to an alternative date.
Terms & Conditions
To ensure the safety of our guests, please listen to the safety announcements made by our skipper before departure. If anyone turns up intoxicated and is not fit for travel, the intoxicated guests will be left behind, or the charter will be cancelled with no refund. BYO alcohol is not permitted on the boat as we have a licensed bar onboard. If you bring your own alcohol onto Riverhead Ferry we will have to cancel the charter with no refund. No drugs or illicit substances are permitted on board any of our charters. However, we do love to have a good time, so make sure you dance and drink the day or night away!
Biosecurity Information
We follow and support the biosecurity requirements set out by the Auckland Council and the Department of Conservation. Before travelling into the Hauraki Gulf with us, please ensure your gear is clean and pest-free. For more information on how to check your gear, click here.
Te Korowai o Waiheke (Towards Predator Free Waiheke) is an organisation working towards making Waiheke the world's first urban predator-free island, so it's imperative we help keep the endangered species that live on Waiheke Island safe.
Read more
