Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
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. Your ticket directly supports this work.
Additional Info
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
What To Expect
See rare Hector’s dolphins up close in the wild, along with NZ fur seals, little blue penguins, albatross, and other native seabirds on this award-winning cruise. Board a spacious, modern catamaran with two open viewing decks, indoor seating, and onboard facilities. Travel through Akaroa Harbour, an ancient volcanic crater, as your expert skipper shares insights into the region’s marine life, conservation, and rich Māori and European history. Marvel at 500-foot cliffs, the vibrant colours of Scenery Nook, and the southernmost grove of native Nikau palms. Enjoy complimentary tea, coffee, or hot chocolate and take home a free postcard. Cruises run daily all year (apart from Christmas Day), weather permitting. A New Zealand must-do for nature and wildlife lovers. Complimentary tea, coffee, hot chocolate and postcard included.
Options
Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise
What‘s Included
2-hour nature cruise
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Wildlife viewing
Postcard
Tea, coffee or hot chocolate
Full on-board commentary
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop off
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
352 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Winter cruise
leahhS9471WA,Jun 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a great cruise this morning! There wasn’t many people on the boat which was excellent as our kids were able to wander about but the skipper and the rest of the staff were excellent, even entertaining the kids with a dance party in the cabin! Thanks so much guys! We will be back. Definite highlight of our weekend.
Spectacular scenery
matthewdH98WI,May 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazing trip. Spectacular scenery and loved the guided information on the tour with a typical kiwi sense of humour
Happily do it again
Carol S,Apr 25, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00This was a fantastic relaxing experience. I would happily do it again. My only complaint is that commentary was muffled
A must while in Akaroa
Happiness646664,Apr 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our skipper was very informative with a bit of humor. Great staff and a lovely boat trip seeing a penguin, seal and of course the fascinating dolphins
Wonderful experience
Valeriekiwi,Mar 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What a fabulous experience this was.
Gold Standard
helengreenway123,Mar 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Totally top notch tour, respectful of the dolphins first and foremost Great team Pip was brilliant through our groups changing needs Stunning day Great swim Soul feeding experience One of the best NZ experiences ever
Excellent day
Jacksprat2015,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an excellent day on Akaroa Harbour. Everything was perfect. The staff were entertaining, funny and knowledgeable and we saw lots of dolphins, seals and even penguins. The boat wasn't too crowded so we had lots of opportunity to see over the side and space to move around.
Dolphin swim
Sarah W,Mar 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our experience on these cruises were incredible. Me and my partner chose to swim with dolphins and looked at many websites but this one stuck out. Our boat journey was excellent with grace and a man driving the boat. Grace was a lovely girl who kept us in the loop and I can’t remember the man’s name may of been Chris he was also amazing. The actual swimming was also the best thing we’ve ever done, we never once felt nervous, on edge or uncomfortable just free, fun and relaxed. The dolphins were super cute and friendly and the professional pictures were perfect. Highly recommend
Friendly crew; good...
Amanda L,Mar 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Friendly crew; good commentary; easy to move around boat; did not see penguins, however, did see Hector's dolphins, seals and birds of the albatross family.
Wonderful experience
karolinesZ1105MZ,Mar 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A wonderful experience! It was so nice to see the dolphins playing around in the boat. The crew was very friendly, everything well organized.
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Operated by Black Cat Cruises