How long is the ferry ride?

Each leg is approximately 1.5 hours; most public sailings include about two hours ashore at Riverhead.

Can I bring children?

Yes—children are welcome but must be supervised by an adult at all times on board and ashore.

Is BYO alcohol allowed?

No. BYO alcohol is prohibited both on the boat and at The Riverhead; use licensed bar services instead.

Are private charters available?

Yes—private charters can alter timing and duration. Contact the operator for options and group pricing.

Are there accessibility concerns?

There are 55 steps from the Riverhead jetty to the tavern; plan accordingly if you have mobility limitations.

What should I bring for payment onboard?

Bring cash for the bar and snacks—EFTPOS signal can be patchy while underway.

Harbour Hops: The Red Boats' Scenic Cruise to The Riverhead & Portage Bar from Westhaven

Launch from Westhaven Marina at 31 Westhaven Drive and settle into a roomy Red Boats vessel for a mellow crossing of Auckland’s upper Waitematā Harbour to the historic Riverhead village. The Portage Bar cruise runs from Pier Z (beside Billfish Café) and delivers a mix of harbour panoramas, friendly commentary, and a licensed onboard bar that keeps the mood lively.

The ferry route moves through a working tidal estuary lined with urban mangroves, tidal mudflats and pocket coves where flocks of shorebirds feed at low tide. On clear days the silhouette of the Waitākere Ranges provides a rugged backdrop; closer in, low-lying headlands and foam-streaked channels reveal the harbour’s geological story of drowned valleys and sediment deposition.

Vessels are large and family-friendly, with indoor saloons, open decks, two toilets and room to spread out. The outward cruise includes a guided commentary that points out landmarks and local history; the return leg features light background music for a relaxed ride back to the city. The Riverhead jetty requires guests to climb 55 steps to reach tavern and bar options, so plan accordingly if mobility is a concern.

The Riverhead Tavern and The Portage Bar sit as a genuine community hub on the water’s edge—one of New Zealand’s oldest riverside taverns—offering refined tavern classics, small plates, and a curated selection of craft beers and spirits. The venue’s pool table, shaded veranda and small outdoor area make it a flexible stop for families, couples and small groups seeking a casual meal or a waterfront drink.

Practical details matter: the ferry is approximately 1.5 hours each way and most public sailings allow about two hours ashore. BYO alcohol is not permitted on the boat or at The Riverhead; bring cash for bar purchases since EFTPOS can be unreliable onboard. Stag and hen parties are not allowed on public cruises, and all guests must comply with house rules while aboard.

This outing is ideal for visitors who want a low-effort coastal experience that still feels like a small escape—no car required, minimal walking, and easy social comforts aboard and ashore. Photographers will find wide harbour vistas and textured tide lines, while families will appreciate the relaxed pace and safe, roomy decks. Respect tidal access windows, leave no trace at the dock, and you’ll come away with a memorable mix of sea air, local flavor and an authentic Auckland waterfront stop.

Onboard staff provide running commentary about local maritime history, including the area’s portage routes and early settler activity, and they can advise on tide-dependent timings. For groups, private charters adjust times and length of stay; for public sailings, arrive early to secure good deck seats and bring layered clothing for changing harbour breezes and sunscreen.

About The Riverhead

The Riverhead is an Auckland-based operator offering scenic harbor cruises and ferry services to Riverhead, home to New Zealand’s oldest riverside tavern. Featured on The Adventure Collective, The Riverhead runs a variety of short cruises aboard spacious vessels and historic wooden ferries, combining coastal scenery, lively commentary, and relaxed on-board service.

Trips include Red Boats and Riverhead Ferry options that sail along Auckland’s historic harbour, passing Māori sites and early pioneers’ routes before docking at the tavern. Options visit The Landing restaurant, The Boat House, or The Portage Bar, with seasonal dishes, live summer music on selected sailings, and indoor and outdoor seating. Onboard amenities commonly include a licensed bar, snacks, and comfortable deck space suitable for families and groups.

The Riverhead’s cruises emphasize accessibility and atmosphere: vessels offer indoor and outdoor areas, commentary highlights local history, and some sailings note a 1.5-hour duration. One landing involves a climb of 55 stairs to reach the tavern; shore access and facilities vary by trip. Safety and hospitality are supported by licensed on-board service and experienced crew familiar with Auckland’s upper harbour routes.

Ideal for visitors seeking relaxed sightseeing, waterside dining, or social outings, The Riverhead provides straightforward, fact-based experiences rooted in local history and harbor scenery. Booking and schedule details are available through the operator’s listings and partners. Schedules, fares, and specific onboard services differ between trips; passengers should consult the operator listing or ticketing partner for current departure times, pricing, accessibility notes, and seasonal changes for planning and safety purposes.