Frequently Asked Questions

There are two companies that offer scheduled services from Auckland city to The Riverhead. We (The Riverhead) don't operate nor own the boats ourselves however, in collaboration with the ferries, we have funded this website in order to improve the customer experience. You can now make your ferry and venue reservation in one easy process!  

The Red Boats

The Riverhead Ferry

We have 3 different venues at The Riverhead. The Landing, The Portage Bar and The Boat House - see the FAQ's below/ home page for more information and the menu's at each venue

As you are coming to our private dock, it's expected that you will be dining / enjoying some drinks at one of our great options here on site!

No sorry, we don't allow BYO for any food nor beverages. Please note that you will land on our private dock so all food and beverage must be purchased on site.

We do allow you to bring in a birthday cake, please note a small surcharge will be required to cover service/storing/ plates etc.

We understand that things crop up from time to time…that’s life!

If for any reason you cannot make this trip, we simply ask that you let us know in plenty of time so that we are not expecting you or your party.

We will refund you less a non refundable $3 booking/admin fee per person if you give us more than 48hrs notice. 

No refunds for cancellation within 48 hours of your sailing time.

If the ferry has had to cancel the trip due to weather or any other unforeseen circumstance, then of course we will refund you in full.

If you wish to re-book another date please contact us at least 48 hours prior to your booked sailing time.

Amendments to your booking within 48 hours will be treated as a last minute cancellation and no refund given.

When you are ready to book your date, check availability on the website first then simply call them quoting your reference number and they will book you in - 09 8347337

The Red Boats depart from Pier Z Westhaven marina (31 Westhaven Drive) beside the Billfish cafe. Please note, We do not have an office at Westhaven, all ticketing is done when boarding the Vessel. Please wait at the top of the pontoon ramp at Westhaven marina, the Vessel will come to the Carpark for boarding half an hour before departure.

We also do a pick up on the way to Riverhead from the Birkenhead Ferry terminal at the bottom of Hinemoa Street Birkenhead. For Birkenhead Pick ups, the Vessel will arrive at Birkenhead 15 minutes after our departure from Auckland. We load from the inside pontoon on the Birkenhead Ferry wharf. Please ensure you are on the Pontoon waiting as we do not have a set departure time at Birkenhead and will depart once loaded.

Our Vessels are fully licensed premises, all normal house & club rules apply on board at all times. Our Licensed Bar is available on board for your convenience. Please ensure you bring Cash for the bar as eftpos reception can be patchy. Please Note: We do not allow BYO on the Riverhead Cruise, This includes on the Boat, and at The Riverhead.

Our Vessel is child friendly and you are welcome to bring Children on board so long as they are supervised by an Adult at all times.

Our Vessels are large roomy Vessels with spacious indoor and outdoor areas. We have a Licensed bar on board, snacks available, and 2 toilets for your convenience. We provide a full commentary on the cruise to Riverhead and play light background music for the cruise back to Auckland.

This cruise is a great leisurely family day out for young and old. If you are wanting more of a party trip, then please contact us for our options for Group charters and Exclusive hire.

Applicable with weekdays only, gold card holders only. If you incorrectly purchase a senior rate for a weekend, the ferry will collect the extra payment as you board.

Please note that there are 50 steps from the Riverhead dock upto the restaurant and bar at The Riverhead. If you are unable to make your way up the stairs then regrettably you will need to stay on the boat.

The Riverhead Ferry departs from Z pier, Westhaven