Akaroa Dolphins ~ Harbour Nature Cruise

5.0 (2,279 reviews) 2 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

2,279 reviews

5.0

Part of your fare goes toward the research and education of the beautful but endanaged Hector's dolphins. — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Fun for all ages. — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

At the core, we’re a family business with our management team being 6th & 7th 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.

*Check-in is 30 minutes prior to the departure, with boarding 15 minutes beforehand.

Whale Watching On the Water Dolphin Watching Excellent Quality Best Conversion Involves Animals Top Product Low Supplier Cancellation Rate

At a glance

Duration: 2 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 35 people
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English
Operated by: Akaroa Dolphins

Ages: Infants (0–4 years) · Children (5–15 years) · Adults (16–100 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Knowledgeable local skipper and guide
Included: Homemade cookie (family recipe)
Included: Complimentary drink (beer, NZ wine, or non-alcoholic option)

Not included

Not included: Swimming with dolphins (for conservation reasons)
Not included: Transport to Akaroa

Itinerary

As a holder of a New Zealand Department of Conservation Marine Mammal Viewing Permit, we are legally authorized to take guests on dolphin and seal viewing tours. We are proud to be one of only two year-round operators in Akaroa Harbour with this permit, so we encourage you to choose responsibly. Enjoy a 2-hour nature cruise on our luxury catamaran in Akaroa Harbour, a hotspot for Hector's dolphins, White-flippered penguins, and New Zealand fur seals. While we can't guarantee sightings as the animals are wild, we have a high success rate. If you don't see dolphins, cruise with us again for free. Our friendly check-in team, skippers, onboard guides, and expert dolphin-spotting dogs equipped with life-vests will ensure an unforgettable experience. As a conservation measure, we do not swim with the dolphins. To redeem a voucher, promotion code, or Top10 membership card, please contact us directly via phone or email. We cannot offer discounts after a booking has been made online. Please note, check-in is no later than 30 minutes prior to the departure, with boarding 15 minutes beforehand.

Stop 1
Akaroa Lighthouse
Akaroa
Banks Peninsula

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Check-In: 30 minutes before departure. Boarding 15 minutes prior.

Note: Akaroa is approx. a 90-minute drive from Christchurch and Lyttelton Port.

End point

Check-In: 30 minutes before departure. Boarding 15 minutes prior.

Note: Akaroa is approx. a 90-minute drive from Christchurch and Lyttelton Port.

Using your ticket

1. Check-in is no later than 30 minutes prior to the departure, with boarding 15 minutes beforehand.

2. Please contact us via email or phone, 24 hours prior to the cruise for an update on the sea and weather conditions.

3. Please note, that we DO NOT swim with the dolphins on our tours.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.