Akaroa Harbour Penguins, Dolphins, and More Nature Cruise
Cruise through the stunning Akaroa Harbour and encounter some of New Zealand’s most unique marine wildlife, including the rare Hector’s dolphin, NZ fur seals, penguins, and seabirds. Set aboard a spacious, modern catamaran with large viewing decks and indoor seating, this award-winning nature cruise offers comfort, panoramic views, and expert commentary from your knowledgeable skipper. You’ll explore an ancient volcanic crater, marvel at towering 500-foot sea cliffs and vibrant rock formations. Learn about local conservation efforts and Akaroa’s rich Māori and European history. Complimentary tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and a free postcard. With guaranteed departures (weather permitting), it’s a must-do for nature and wildlife lovers and families alike. As New Zealand’s first eco-tourism operator, we’re proud to support the dolphin protection efforts alongside the Department of Conservation and the NZ Whale & Dolphin Trust.
Highlights
- ✓Relax on board a spacious catamaran with panoramic views
- ✓See many native New Zealand species—some rare—in the wild
- ✓Board at the easy-to-find wharf in Akaroa, for an easy start
- ✓Ideal for bird and native enthusiasts or anyone keen to learn more
What you'll see & do
- ✓See Hector’s dolphins in their natural environment on a 2-hour wildlife cruise through beautiful Akaroa Harbour. As you cruise through the harbour, keep an eye out for Hector’s dolphins, the smallest and rarest dolphin in the world, New Zealand fur seals, albatross and other native seabirds. The cruise takes you along the harbour’s volcanic coastline, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery and spot wildlife from the two open viewing decks. Your skipper shares stories about the harbour, its wildlife and conservation, as well as some of the area’s Māori and European history. You’ll also see the towering volcanic cliffs and stunning scenery along the way. The catamaran has comfortable indoor seating and onboard facilities, and complimentary tea, coffee and hot chocolate are available during the cruise. You’ll also receive a complimentary postcard to take home. Cruises operate daily throughout the year, except Christmas Day, weather permitting. A relaxed way to get out on the water, see some of New Zealand’s unique wildlife and experience Akaroa Harbour.
What's included
- ✓2-hour nature cruise
- ✓GST (Goods and Services Tax)
- ✓Wildlife viewing
- ✓Postcard
- ✓Tea, coffee or hot chocolate
- ✓Full on-board commentary
What's not included
- ✓Gratuities
- ✓Hotel pickup and drop off
Good to know
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
How it works
• We suggest you wear warm clothing. Even on warm days, there may be a cool sea breeze blowing. Sun screen and a hat is a must even if its cloudy. Bring your camera - there are incredible views.
Finishing Point
Please check in to the Black Cat office at 61 Beach Road at least 30 minutes prior to departure.
Meeting Point
Please check in to the Black Cat office at 61 Beach Road at least 30 minutes prior to departure.
Cancellation policy
- •A full refund will apply if you cancel more than 24 hours before the activity start time.
- •No refund is possible if you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time.
Akaroa Harbour Penguins, Dolphins, and More Nature Cruise
Cruise through the stunning Akaroa Harbour and encounter some of New Zealand’s most unique marine wildlife, including the rare Hector’s dolphin, NZ fur seals, penguins, and seabirds. Set aboard a spacious, modern catamaran with large viewing decks and indoor seating, this award-winning nature cruise offers comfort, panoramic views, and expert commentary from your knowledgeable skipper. You’ll explore an ancient volcanic crater, marvel at towering 500-foot sea cliffs and vibrant rock formations. Learn about local conservation efforts and Akaroa’s rich Māori and European history. Complimentary tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and a free postcard. With guaranteed departures (weather permitting), it’s a must-do for nature and wildlife lovers and families alike. As New Zealand’s first eco-tourism operator, we’re proud to support the dolphin protection efforts alongside the Department of Conservation and the NZ Whale & Dolphin Trust.
Highlights
- ✓Relax on board a spacious catamaran with panoramic views
- ✓See many native New Zealand species—some rare—in the wild
- ✓Board at the easy-to-find wharf in Akaroa, for an easy start
- ✓Ideal for bird and native enthusiasts or anyone keen to learn more
What you'll see & do
- ✓See Hector’s dolphins in their natural environment on a 2-hour wildlife cruise through beautiful Akaroa Harbour. As you cruise through the harbour, keep an eye out for Hector’s dolphins, the smallest and rarest dolphin in the world, New Zealand fur seals, albatross and other native seabirds. The cruise takes you along the harbour’s volcanic coastline, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery and spot wildlife from the two open viewing decks. Your skipper shares stories about the harbour, its wildlife and conservation, as well as some of the area’s Māori and European history. You’ll also see the towering volcanic cliffs and stunning scenery along the way. The catamaran has comfortable indoor seating and onboard facilities, and complimentary tea, coffee and hot chocolate are available during the cruise. You’ll also receive a complimentary postcard to take home. Cruises operate daily throughout the year, except Christmas Day, weather permitting. A relaxed way to get out on the water, see some of New Zealand’s unique wildlife and experience Akaroa Harbour.
What's included
- ✓2-hour nature cruise
- ✓GST (Goods and Services Tax)
- ✓Wildlife viewing
- ✓Postcard
- ✓Tea, coffee or hot chocolate
- ✓Full on-board commentary
What's not included
- ✓Gratuities
- ✓Hotel pickup and drop off
Good to know
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
How it works
• We suggest you wear warm clothing. Even on warm days, there may be a cool sea breeze blowing. Sun screen and a hat is a must even if its cloudy. Bring your camera - there are incredible views.
Finishing Point
Please check in to the Black Cat office at 61 Beach Road at least 30 minutes prior to departure.
Meeting Point
Please check in to the Black Cat office at 61 Beach Road at least 30 minutes prior to departure.
Cancellation policy
- •A full refund will apply if you cancel more than 24 hours before the activity start time.
- •No refund is possible if you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time.