Akaroa Dolphins ~ Harbour Nature Cruise

Overview

Available languages

English

2 hours

Mobile ticket

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.

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

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

We do not swim with the dolphins

Cancellation Policy

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

What‘s Included

Knowledgeable local skipper and guide

Homemade cookie (family recipe)

Complimentary drink (beer, NZ wine, or non-alcoholic option)

Swimming with dolphins (for conservation reasons)

Transport to Akaroa

What To Expect

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.

Options

Akaroa Dolphins ~ Harbour Nature Cruise

Reviews

4.96

2,020 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

1955

Just on the off chance
OnAir56201783359,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We thought it would kill a couple of hours just bobbing around the harbor. Much, much better. Not the usual teasing from a script. Dave was very interactive, someone pointing at a dolphin and he took the boat there, turned around a few times to follow the dolphin. I suppose it’s the luck of the draw if dolphin show up but if they do the boat will follow. Enjoyed every bit, including petting Albie the do. Crew was Dave (crackly mic) Elsa bar manager Albie the dog.
Wonderful day on the water
April L,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
What a wonderful day! We saw so many dolphins, seals, and even a penguin. The crew were very informative and the drink and cookie were an extra treat. I would highly recommend the experience.
Fantastic trip of Akaroa Harbour!!
MichelleD956,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Dave, Lucy, Hannah and dolphin spotting dog-Wilbur hosted us on a wonderful cruise of Akaroa harbour. We were treated to a number of visits by pods of Hector dolphins and Dave's commentary was fantastic and great to hear the history and information about the harbour, wildlife and history of Akaroa's harbour. Lucy and Hannah ensured everyone was taken care of and Wilbur was adorable, doing his rounds of the boat and checking on everyone. The homemade biscuit was a lovely touch. Highly recommend this tour. Thank you all for a great morning!
Very nice boat trip!
Smiliman01,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Great boat trip in the morning. We saw dolphins, penguins and a lot of birds. Staff was very friendly. Thank you very much!
Great cruise experience
phillip971,
Nov 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Excellent cruise on a calm, still day. Great commentary by skipper Dave, ably assisted by the crew, Lucy, Hannah and dolphin spotting dog, Wilbur. Highly recommended.
Great experience, great crew, beautiful day
Noam S,
Nov 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We went out on the morning cruise and saw lots of dolphins, as well as seals, numerous birds, and learned some local history. It was a beautiful day, and Lucy, Hannah, and Captain Dave (and Albbie) were delightful and made sure everyone had a good time.
Worth it
Lien D,
Nov 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Very friendly people and dog. They do everything they can to spot dolphins and with clear explanations. Definitely worth it.
Outstanding experience
adrianhR6279XC,
Nov 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Outstanding crew and experience. We saw a heap of dolphins and other beautiful creatures that live in this beautiful part of the world. Would recommend to all.
a great way to meet the locals!
Flyer11255951256,
Nov 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
A great trip with a great crew (both hoomans and dog). It was an experience respectful of nature and rich in interesting insights into the local fauna, history, and heritage, with a laugh here and there!
Cruise on Akaroa Harbour and beyond in search of Hectors Dolphins and more
peter cowper,
Nov 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Really professional and enjoyable cruise. Really knowledgeable skipper and all the crew were welcoming and friendly. We encountered many Maui Dolphins which are in pretty short supply. Plenty of good commentary along with bit of nonsense from Joe the skipper. All on board a very nicely appointed vessel which looks very well looked after. We had a great time.