Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise

Overview

Available languages

English

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

Cancellation Policy

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

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

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

Reviews

4.75

299 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

253

Slice of Heaven
Jennifer P,
Jul 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Fresh sea air, pristine water, wildlife in their natural habitat and a crew that has just the right mix of information and humour - this is a must do when visiting Aotearoa, New Zealand! We learned some history, heard beautiful Te Reo Māori and saw Hector dolphins, seals, sea birds and scenes that looked like they were from the movies. It was an incredible journey!
Great time!
Lori V,
Jun 15, 2025
- Viator
5.00
The trip was amazing and lots of wildlife to be seen. The meeting point was easily found and the excursion allowed plenty of time to explore the town when it was finished. Highly recommend!
Dolphin watching cruise
Michael G,
Mar 13, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Well worth the trip to Akaroa large clean boat. The boat wasn’t crowed. Departed on time. Very easy ticketing. Excellent commentary. Saw Hectir dolphins and fur seals
Top of the Pops!
Jennifer M,
Feb 25, 2025
- Viator
5.00
You will never see the Hector dolphins anywhere else in the world. We saw plenty on a wonderful day from a top class vessel, The Black Cat.
Nice cruise..seeing some sights..
Jay S,
Jan 27, 2025
- Viator
4.00
Nice easygoing cruise. Saw some good sights of animals, birds etc. Good value for the money if of interest to you.