Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise with Dolphin Watching

Highlights

  • Join us on our luxury catamaran where you will enjoy a 2-hour cruise around Akaroa Harbour and meet the world's smallest and rarest dolphins, the Hector's dolphin, along with New Zealand fur seals, White-flippered penguins, marine salmon and mussel farms. Over the past 12 months, we’ve had a 98% success rate with dolphin sightings. If you’re among the rare few who don’t see dolphins, you can cruise again with us for free. From our check-in team to our skippers and on board guides, you’ll be greeted with smiles every step of the way. An integral part of the team is our expert dolphin spotting dogs. Equipped with dog life-vests and a keen ear, they’ll help make your dolphin encounter an unforgettable experience. Boarding is 15 minutes prior to departure, with check-in 30 minutes before this time. Please note, we do not swim with the dolphins on our tours.

Summary

Join us on our luxury catamaran where you will enjoy a 2-hour cruise around Akaroa Harbour and meet the world's smallest and rarest dolphins, the Hector's dolphin, along with New Zealand fur seals, White-flippered penguins, marine salmon and mussel farms. Over the past 12 months, we’ve had a 98% success rate with dolphin sightings. If you’re among the rare few who don’t see dolphins, you can cruise again with us for free. From our check-in team to our skippers and on board guides, you’ll be greeted with smiles every step of the way. An integral part of the team is our expert dolphin spotting dogs. Equipped with dog life-vests and a keen ear, they’ll help make your dolphin encounter an unforgettable experience. Boarding is 15 minutes prior to departure, with check-in 30 minutes before this time. Please note, we do not swim with the dolphins on our tours.

Tour info

Duration
2 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

At the core, we’re a family business with our management team being 5th & 6th generation Banks Peninsula locals. Alongside our family members, we have a passionate team who are committed to you having a once-in-a-lifetime experience! We keep our passenger groups small so that you have more room to move around the boat, and enjoy your cruise without overcrowding or missing dolphin sightings due to a shortage of viewing space. Our boat has a low-lying profile which means you get closer to the wildlife! When you board our boat you’ll be offered a complimentary drink. Choose from beer, award-winning local wine or non-alcoholic options. You’ll also enjoy our famous home-baked treats made from our family recipe and served to you by our delightful onboard crew. We are committed to the conservation of our harbour's environment and wildlife. After all, it’s the centre point of our business. Please note, boarding is 15 minutes prior to departure, with check-in 30 minutes before this time.

What’s included?

  • A complimentary glass of New Zealand wine, beer or non-alcoholic option

  • One of our famous home-baked cookies

  • We do not swim with the dolphins on our tours.

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 2h

  • Mobile tickets accepted

  • Instant confirmation

Covid Policy

  • Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
  • Guides required to regularly wash hands
  • Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operated by:

Akaroa Dolphins

About operator:

Let our crew, including our dolphin spotting dogs, take you on a journey of discovery through the long history of Akaroa harbour and its inhabitants. Our low-lying luxurious, spacious boat ensures you have a closer encounter with the rare Hector’s dolphins. We also endeavour to give you the best possible viewing of our local New Zealand fur seals, penguins and seabirds. Along the way, you will get to see sea caves and other spectacular volcanic formations too. We offer a friendly and comfortable experience that includes complimentary drinks of local award-winning wine, beer or juice, as well as some delicious home baking. Our 100% locally owned and operated business is committed to raising awareness and protecting the marine environment. That is why a portion of your fare goes towards protecting our wildlife. To find out more about our conservation commits please visit our website. Please note, we do not swim with the dolphins.

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