Explore Group To Operate Coromandel-Auckland Ferry Service From Labour Weekend

Explore Group has today announced it was be reinstating the popular Auckland to Coromandel ferry service this summer launching on October 24 just in time for Labour weekend.

The company announced that initially it will operate an express Friday evening service, as well as Saturday and Sunday departures with plans to increase the schedule with demand.

The journey will take just over two hours and passengers travelling through the eastern Hauraki Gulf onboard Explore’s fleet of premium vessels.

“We are excited to add this new destination to our schedule and connect Auckland and the Coromandel region. It is the next step in expanding our service on the Hauraki Gulf – from Tiritiri Matangi in the north to Man O’ War, Waiheke and Rotoroa Island to the east – Coromandel is the natural next destination for us, supported by the local Coromandel community who are passionate about reconnecting their community,” said William Goodfellow, Managing Director, Explore Group in today’s release.

The new service departs Auckland’s Viaduct arriving at Hannaford’s Wharf and will be met with a bus service courtesy of Thames-Coromandel District Council connecting passengers onto Coromandel Town.

“We’re really pleased this is happening,” said Council’s Economic Development Lead Mitch King.

“The community has been looking for the ferry service from Auckland to be reinstated for several years now because it’s such an important part of the Coromandel’s hospitality offering. It’s been great to work with Explore Group and the Coromandel Business Association to bring back the ferry connection.”

Coromandel Business Association Chair, Jeni Ashman welcomed the announcement saying “the local community is delighted that a ferry service has been reinstated. Positive input from the community has demonstrated local demand from business, locals and visitors alike and contributed to the successful reestablishment of a service that will be invaluable to connecting our community.”

This is further supported by Destination Hauraki Coromandel GM, Hadley Dryden.

“The revival of the blue highway is fantastic news. Cruising the islands of the Hauraki Gulf – alongside marine wildlife, past mussel farms, with the Coromandel Ranges and city skyline at either end – is an experience not to be missed. Once aboard, visitors will understand why Hauraki Coromandel is good for your soul.”

The Coromandel ferry schedule will commence on Friday, October 24, departing Auckland’s Viaduct at 4:45pm and arriving at Hannaford’s Wharf 6:45pm.

Saturday and Sunday return services will also commence on October 25 and 26.

Prices for a return trip from Auckland’s Viaduct to Coromandel Town (including bus transfer) are: $135 per adult and $67.50 per child. There will also be an option for an extended transfer to Whitianga: $185 per adult and $92.50 per child.