The Riverhead Tavern is the perfect venue for any occasion, and cruising there with a licensed bar and ports to play your own music will make it even more memorable!

Please note: This trip is dependent on the tides. While you can select your preferred time when booking, we may need to adjust it based on the tides for your chosen day. We will confirm the final schedule with you after receiving your booking enquiry.

A cruise to The Riverhead

Just over 5 hours of a Classic Kiwi Experience.

Privately hire the Riverhead ferry and get the best of both worlds with this boat and restaurant experience. Start and end your day or night on Auckland's Harbour, with delicious food and drink in between. Cruise with us to The Riverhead, and don't worry about a thing.

Celebrate any occasion with a drink as you cruise under the Harbour Bridge, watch the beautiful scenery go by as you float up the river, and spend quality time with friends or family while you dine at New Zealand's oldest riverside tavern. All your group needs to do is soak in the views and enjoy a drink or few!

The Destination

The sheltered waterways of the upper Waitemata Harbour will take you back to another era when you arrive at The Riverhead. For over 150 years, it has seen people come and go and holds many stories within its walls. The à La Carté Restaurant is connected to an outside deck surrounded by 100-year-old oak trees overlooking the river, while the classic kiwi neighbourhood bar makes a wonderful place to unwind with a cold beer and a game of pool. On your journey back you will see the beauty of Auckland's captivating city and Harbour Bridge. 

Where is it?

The historical Riverhead Tavern is nestled on the edge of the upper Waitemata Harbour. It is a 1.5-hour boat journey from Westhaven Marina.

How long should I stay?

The total trip time is 5 1/2 hours. You will spend 2.5 hours at your chosen venue at the Riverhead Tavern, and the cruise is 1.5 hours each way.

What are the food options?

What you'll see

The cruise is 1.5 hours each way, taking the route of the early settlers, and leaving the city behind as you slide under the Auckland Harbour Bridge, cruise past the Chelsea Sugar Factory, and leave Herald Island to port venturing up the sheltered waterways to the top of the harbour.

Drop-off & pick-up

Your pick-up and drop-off 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 scenery 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 wear soft, comfortable, and supportive shoes — no gumboots, penny heels, and work boots. 

Food and drink.

We have a licensed bar on board for drinks during your cruise. At the time of booking, you can choose your preferred venue at the Riverhead Tavern, but for Private Cruises you'll need to confirm this with The Riverhead by emailing functions@theriverhead.co.nz. See the delicious menus at each of the venues at The Riverhead: The Portage Bar, The Landing Restaurant, or Boat House.

A deposit is required to secure your booking. Full payment is required if booking within 28 days of your chosen date. Please make sure you confirm your chosen venue with The Riverhead by emailing functions@theriverhead.co.nz.