Boat and Crew
Welcome aboard the Dolphin Explorer
The ‘Dolphin Explorer’ is a luxury 20 metre (65ft) Powercat that was purpose built to maximise our passenger viewing experience and at the same time make the boat trip around the Hauraki Gulf as comfortable as possible for up to 100 passengers.
With large open decks on two levels and a range of indoor and outdoor seating, you’ll view Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf in comfort. There is a licensed café and bar on board with a range of refreshment options.
Connect with and learn from our highly experienced and knowledgeable crew
Our qualified crew and onboard research scientists provide a fun and educational experience, connecting you with this wonderful planet we all call home.
Sarah-Lyn
Skipper/First Mate
I’ve always wanted to work in an environment with whales and dolphins. I started out by completing a Bachelor of Science, majoring in Marine Biology and Ecology & Biodiversity. I have also worked on several marine mammal research projects around the country. In fact I started coming out on Dolphin Explorer as a marine researcher. Now I work on board and am living the dream! I look forward to meeting you all and sharing in the amazing experience that is seeing these incredible animals thriving in their natural habitat.
Sair
First Mate
I have a Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology and am a qualified skipper, with extensive boating knowledge from the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park down to the deep south of New Zealand. I’ve worked as a research assistant on various marine projects and love sharing our encounters with guests from all around NZ and the world.
Lucia
Guide
I have a Bachelor of Science in Marine Science and a Masters in Marine Biology. As well as working on board Dolphin Explorer, I act as a snorkel guide for Experiencing Marine Reserves, a national programme offering experiential learning about marine conservation through guided tours.
Kirsty
Guide
I have a Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology and Chemistry, and went on to gain my Masters in Marine Science, studying juvenile snapper metabolomics. I’ve also worked as an intern with Conservation International.
